Cork production in Souk Ahras province reached 3,314 quintals during the 2026 season. The harvesting campaign spanned 1,792 hectares and provided approximately 40 seasonal jobs for youth residing in mountainous and border areas. Ahmed Garfi, the person in charge of managing the Wealth, Studies and Programs Department at the Forestry Conservation, stated: "The cork harvesting campaign targeted the 'Faj Al-Amd' forest in the municipality of Ouled Driss, which is considered one of the most prominent production areas for this material in the province."
The total output of 3,314 quintals reflects the specific yields recorded across the province for the 2026 season. This production volume was achieved through the systematic harvesting of cork oak across the 1,792 hectares designated for the campaign. By focusing on these specific hectares, the provincial authorities aimed to optimize the extraction process while adhering to established forestry management protocols.
The provision of approximately 40 seasonal jobs served as a significant component of the campaign’s socioeconomic impact. These positions were specifically directed toward youth living in the mountainous and border areas of Souk Ahras. By offering this employment, the campaign supported local labor needs during the peak harvesting period.
Harvesting Operations and Timeline
Operations for the 2026 harvesting campaign officially commenced in early June 2026. This start date was selected to align with optimal harvesting conditions for the cork oak trees. The regional rural engineering company 'Babour' conducted all harvesting activities throughout the designated sites in Souk Ahras. The involvement of the regional rural engineering company 'Babour' ensured that the technical requirements of the extraction process were met across all identified sites.
The harvesting procedures carried out by the regional rural engineering company 'Babour' were executed in accordance with the schedule that began in early June 2026. This timeline allowed the teams to navigate the 1,792 hectares effectively, ensuring that the 3,314 quintals of cork were collected throughout the designated period. The coordination between the provincial forestry authorities and the regional rural engineering company 'Babour' facilitated the logistical management of the workforce and the equipment required for the operation.
Local forestry development efforts also include long-term reforestation initiatives. Data indicates that authorities planted approximately 180 hectares of cork oak trees in the municipalities of Mechroha and Ain Zana between 2014 and 2026. This reforestation program represents a sustained commitment to the ecological health of the region. By focusing on the municipalities of Mechroha and Ain Zana, the authorities have worked to ensure the continuity of cork oak resources. The 180 hectares planted between 2014 and 2026 are intended to support the future productivity of the province’s forests, reinforcing the importance of the cork industry to the local economy of Souk Ahras.
