Date Published: Friday, December 20, 2024
Category: Economy
Algiers – On Thursday, President Abdelmadjid Tebboune inaugurated the 32nd edition of the Algerian Production Exhibition, showcasing the significant advancements of Algerian production and service companies across various sectors. These developments have contributed to reducing imports and increasing non-hydrocarbon exports. The President emphasized prioritizing domestic market needs before focusing on exports.
Military Industry as a Model of Excellence
President Tebboune praised the achievements in the military sector during his visit to the Ministry of National Defense pavilion, describing it as a “model to emulate and a driving force for industrial development.” He encouraged other sectors to reach the same level of integration, with the military industry achieving record integration rates.
Highlighting equality among industries, he stated, “There should be no distinction between military, public, or private enterprises as they all produce Algerian goods.” The government’s recent policies supporting local production have reportedly reduced import bills by 40%.
Automotive Industry Expansion
At the FIAT pavilion, the President reaffirmed Algeria’s commitment to advancing its automotive industry, including spare parts manufacturing. He proposed aligning investments with the company’s needs to achieve a 50% integration rate in car production.
To protect local products, he instructed the gradual reduction of brake pad imports starting in 2025, following the success of a private Algerian company in meeting national demand.
Steel and Agricultural Equipment
At the Algerian Iron Industry pavilion, the President stressed aligning production with local market demands instead of focusing solely on exports. With over 11,000 projects registered with the Algerian Investment Promotion Agency, there is growing demand for steel structures to support development initiatives.
For agricultural equipment, he urged the National Company for Agricultural Equipment and Fisheries to regulate the used tractor market while boosting local production.
Mining, Water, and Renewable Energy
President Tebboune highlighted the need to synchronize ongoing mining projects with railway infrastructure and the mining pier at the Port of Annaba.
Regarding water desalination plants, he directed the gradual distribution of water from the five ongoing projects by late February 2025, aiming to address water supply challenges in major cities.
In renewable energy, the President mandated the gradual adoption of solar-powered public lighting from 2025, especially in urban areas, to alleviate municipal financial burdens.
Startups: The Future of Algeria’s Economy
Startups were a focal point during the exhibition. The President commended their growth and expressed confidence in their ability to create a “knowledge-based, robust economy.” With 9,000 startups currently operating, he pledged to support their growth to 20,000.
He urged larger Algerian companies to back startups by funding their projects and research, emphasizing that “knowledge is the real investment.”
Pharmaceutical Industry and Economic Reforms
The President called for the pharmaceutical giant SAIDAL to regain its role in increasing the local drug supply without harming private enterprises. He also emphasized prescribing medications available locally.
He confirmed that the true one-stop-shop for investors will be operational by January 2025 to simplify processes for economic players.
Exhibition Highlights
Minister of Domestic Trade and Market Regulation, Tayeb Zitouni, presented a report highlighting Algeria’s 1.65 million registered production and service enterprises. Of these, 186,725 are active nationwide, with over 1,800 regular exporters.
The 32nd Algerian Production Exhibition, held under the theme “Our Production, Our Sovereignty,” will run from December 19 to 28, 2024. A record 603 companies, including 84 exporters, are participating.
For more details, visit DZWATCH.DZ.
Author: Nor-Eleslam
