Rome:Aggregate cereal production among Low-Income Food-Deficit Countries (LIFDCs) is forecast to reach approximately 126.5 million tonnes in 2026. This figure represents about a 2% increase over both the 2025 level and the five-year average.

According to Emirates News Agency, the November 2026 edition of the triannual global report "Crop Prospects and Food Situation," released by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), attributes the anticipated increase in cereal production primarily to a strong recovery in Asia, particularly in Near East Asia. However, cereal production among African LIFDCs is expected to remain near-average.

The report also highlights that 41 countries or territories continue to require external assistance for food, with 31 of these located in Africa. Factors such as ongoing conflicts and insecurity are identified as the main causes of severe acute food insecurity. Additionally, weather shocks related to the strong El Niño event are exacerbating conditions in several subregions.

Looking forward, the impacts of El Niño on production are expected to remain severe into 2027, potentially worsening acute food insecurity in several regions. The report provides a forward-looking analysis of food situations by geographic region, with a focus on cereal production outlooks, market situations, and food security conditions, particularly concerning LIFDCs.