by PressThe Norwegian government to build new grain reserves
The Norwegian government is increasing grain reserves
Pandemics, geopolitical conflicts and global crises force governments to rethink their policies. Governments want to ensure that citizens have stable access to essential goods and resources over the long term despite potential crises and unforeseen circumstances. For example, the Norwegian government has announced the creation of a strategic grain reserve.
In addition, local authorities have concerns about rapid climate change. In recent years, major agricultural producers have seen a decline in crop yields, which affects the cost of goods and the volume of supplies. These trends have forced the Norwegian authorities to review the traditional standards for grain procurement. The relevant ministry has agreed to increase state wheat reserves to 30,000 tonnes. Four private companies have taken over grain storage. They will make their warehouses available in different regions of the country.
According to Minister Geir Pollestad, increasing strategic reserves is necessary in the current situation. The government wants to minimise risks in the future and be ready for any development, including geopolitical confrontations and climatic catastrophes.
Food security in Norway
According to official figures, Norway will sign several grain supply contracts. This will allow the country to build up 82.5 thousand tonnes of grain reserves by 2029. Analysts estimate that this will be enough to meet the needs of the Norwegian population for three months. The aim is to ensure food security in the event of a crisis.
Key facts about the procurement and storage of agricultural products in Norway:
1. The country has a population of 5.6 million people.
2. The government intends to spend about US$6 million annually on grain procurement.
3. Norway had state grain stores until the 1950s. They were out of operation in 2003 due to lack of usage.
4. The 2022 conflict in Europe prompted the government to set up a special commission. It assessed the state’s preparedness for emergencies, including a food crisis.
Norway is trying to prevent possible risks to the country, including at the food level.
Efforts to preserve plant diversity
It is worth noting that Norway has a strategic approach to providing agricultural products for its population. The country is home to the world’s largest seed bank. Its purpose is the preservation of key crops in the event of a global catastrophe or nuclear disaster.
Various institutions and agencies worldwide have been building up this reserve since 2008. The vault contains more than 1 million seeds that can be genetically copied. The local government fully funded the construction, and an international organisation covered the running costs.