Jordan Valley farmers face seasonal, supply chain challenges

AMMAN — Seasonal fluctuations and supply chain disruptions are among the major challenges facing farmers in the Jordan Valley, according to stakeholders.

Adnan Khadam, head of the Jordan Valley Farmers Union told The Jordan Times On Monday that the demand for certain vegetables varies from one season to another, thus majorly impacting farmers’ sales volumes and income. 

He also stated that “there is a constant change in consumers’ preferences and spending even when it comes to the most basic of things such as vegetables and fruits.” 

He also noted that “Perishability is another challenge due to inadequate transportation, which leads to significant losses."

In addition, significant numbers of farmers do not have the required access that would help them increase their income, whereas small-scale farmers only sell to their local community, facing obstacles to entering the larger market.

Similarly, Muayad Manaseer, a farmer based in Madaba said, “Having high production means high costs and we are incapable of producing such quantities even if we have the required experience.” 

He added that he runs his family’s farm which is dependent only on a few vegetables, noting the importance of adopting sustainable farming practices to improve their financial circumstances.