BEIRUT – Minister of Economy and Trade Amir El-Bissat and Minister of Agriculture Nizar Hani carried out an inspection tour of Souk el Khodra (the Central Wholesale Market for fruits and vegetables) in Beirut, located in the Ardh Jalloul–Qasqas area, accompanied by a number of officials and sector stakeholders.
The delegation included the Director Generals of the Ministries of Economy and Agriculture, the Mayor of Beirut and members of the municipal council, as well as representatives of the Fruit and Vegetable Traders Syndicate.
During the tour, the delegation reviewed the market’s current condition and logistical and organizational needs, and listened to traders’ demands, particularly those related to reopening the market after a period of closure.
The Minister of Agriculture stressed that reopening the market is not merely an organizational step, but part of a broader vision to restructure agricultural value chains in Lebanon. He noted that Souk el Khodra serves as a key link between agricultural production and consumers, contributing to improved pricing mechanisms, reduced market chaos, and better product quality assurance.
He also highlighted the ministry’s focus on strengthening transparency across supply chains—from farm to consumer—adding that reactivating the market would help ensure product quality through necessary laboratory testing, thereby enhancing consumer trust in Lebanese produce.
He further emphasized the importance of developing the market into an integrated hub that goes beyond commercial exchange, to include agricultural guidance, farmer support, and innovation in marketing practices.
For his part, the Minister of Economy underlined the importance of reactivating this vital facility, given its role in organizing the sale of fruits and vegetables in the capital, reducing pressure on informal markets, and contributing to economic activity and job creation.
He announced the formation of a small committee to follow up on the rehabilitation file and work toward reopening the market as soon as possible, while addressing any administrative or financial obstacles in coordination with relevant authorities.
The reopening of Souk el Khodra is expected to boost economic activity in Beirut, improve supply chains, and strengthen food security within a regulated and supervised environment.
