ANKARA 

The Norwegian government on Tuesday signed a contract with private companies to start stockpiling grain products.

The initial contract will cover storage for 30,000 tons of grain, Agriculture and Food Minister Geir Pollestad told Norwegian broadcaster NRK.

The goal is to store around 82,500 tons of grain by the end of the decade, ensuring enough supply for three months of consumption for Norway's population in any potential crisis, NRK cited Pollestad as saying.

Pollestad highlighted that the security situation has significantly deteriorated in the region, prompting the government to focus on enhancing preparedness.

"Food security is crucial. We must prepare for the unforeseen and ensure access to food in such situations," he said.

Pollestad further explained that these contracts are slated for implementation between 2024 and 2025, with a storage duration of 25 years.

Norway currently maintains a 40% self-sufficiency rate in food.