Top-10 Countries with the Least Arable Land, Check the List

Land is essential for growing food, but not every country has enough suitable land for farming. In some places, harsh climate, deserts, mountains, or icy surfaces make agriculture very difficult. As a result, only a very small part of their total land can be used to grow crops. These countries depend more on food imports and modern farming methods to meet their needs.

What is the Meaning of Arable Land?

Arable land means land that is suitable for growing crops like wheat, rice, vegetables, and fruits. This land has fertile soil and enough water to support farming. Arable land is very important for food production and agriculture. Countries with more arable land can grow more food, while those with less arable land depend more on food imports.

Top-10 Countries with the Least Arable Land

The table below shows countries where only a very small percentage of land can be used for growing crops.

Faroe Islands – 0.05%

The Faroe Islands have the smallest amount of arable land in the world. These islands are located in the North Atlantic Ocean. The land is mostly rocky and hilly, with steep cliffs. The climate is cold, windy, and wet, and the soil is thin. Because of this, crop farming is almost impossible, and people mainly depend on livestock grazing.

Djibouti – 0.13%

Djibouti lies in the Horn of Africa and has a very dry climate. Most of the country is covered by desert land. Rainfall is extremely low, and temperatures are very high throughout the year. Due to these conditions, farming is very limited, and the country depends heavily on imported food.

Northern Mariana Islands – 0.17%

The Northern Mariana Islands face many farming challenges. The land is mostly volcanic and coral-based, which is not ideal for crops. Flat land is scarce, and the islands are often affected by strong typhoons. Small-scale farming exists, but only on a limited area.

Oman – 0.28%

Oman has a large desert area, including parts of the Rub al Khali desert. Water shortage and hot weather make farming difficult. Most farming happens only in oases and coastal regions where irrigation is possible. Overall, arable land is very limited.

Seychelles – 0.33%

Seychelles is a small island country with mountainous land. Freshwater resources are limited, and the ecosystem is delicate. Much of the land is protected for nature and tourism. As a result, very little land is used for agriculture.