Citrus Surplus and Systemic Deficiencies Strains Syria’s Coastal Farmers

Citrus Surplus and Systemic Deficiencies Strains Syria’s Coastal Farmers

In the orchards along Syria’s coast, the citrus problem does not end with abundant production. It begins there. Each year, thousands of tons of oranges and lemons are harvested, yet a significant share never reaches consumers. Farmers face two difficult options: sell at a loss or leave crops to spoil. In peak seasons, production approaches 800,000 tons, but the marketing system cannot absorb the surplus. As a result, what should be a profitable …