Béchar – The Minister of Domestic Trade and Market Regulation, Tayeb Zitouni, announced on Monday that measures have been implemented to ensure the availability of essential goods, particularly staple foods, at affordable prices during Ramadan. These measures will be supported by a robust distribution network.
Strengthening Supply Chains in Southwestern Regions
During a visit to the “Agrodiv” public conglomerate’s semolina and flour mill unit in Béchar’s industrial zone, Minister Zitouni emphasized that specific steps are being taken to meet the increased demand for food and basic products during Ramadan. These measures target the southwestern regions of Algeria, covering seven provinces and serving over one million residents.
The unit’s production capacity is substantial, producing:
- 700 quintals of semolina and 300 quintals of bran daily.
- 800 quintals of flour and 200 quintals of bran daily from the mill’s other products.
- Additionally, the conglomerate produces pasta and pulses, meeting diverse consumer needs.
The minister urged the unit’s management to increase production to ensure daily supply across the southwestern provinces’ distribution networks during Ramadan.
Promoting High-Quality Cement Production
At the “Saoura Cement” plant, part of the public “GICA” conglomerate, which produces over one million tons of various cement types annually, the minister emphasized the need for continuous production of high-quality cement. This strategy aims to enhance the national market while boosting exports to African countries, particularly in preparation for the future free trade zone and the Tindouf (Algeria) – Zouérat (Mauritania) trade route.
Zitouni noted that this approach would support cement exports and other Algerian products to Mauritania and beyond to African markets.
Expanding the Mineral Water Sector
During his inspection of a private mineral water production unit in Moghrar (50 km north of Béchar), the minister highlighted the sector’s growth, with 73 production units nationwide contributing to the economy and job creation.
The unit, with two production lines producing 13,000 bottles daily (1.5L and 0.5L), exemplifies this growth. Zitouni emphasized the importance of maintaining quality standards to meet market demands and ensure price stability. He also called for greater transparency in pricing, addressing unjustified price discrepancies in the market.
Economic Engagement and Export Promotion
Minister Zitouni concluded his visit with a meeting with local economic operators, discussing their concerns and strategies for boosting exports in the region. He announced several measures to support local producers seeking to enter export markets.
He also underscored Béchar’s significant economic potential and its strategic location as a gateway to African markets. The government, he said, is committed to developing cross-border trade from this pivotal region.
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Author: Nor-Eleslam
