Algiers, March 23, 2025 — President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has emphasized the significant strides Algeria has made in securing its food and water resources, driven by increased agricultural production—especially of strategic crops—and the implementation of an ambitious program for seawater desalination, dam interconnection, and groundwater utilization.
In his latest televised and radio-broadcasted interview with national media, the President stated that Algeria is set to achieve self-sufficiency in several key products. “We will attain full self-sufficiency in durum wheat this year,” he declared.
President Tebboune hailed the achievements of Algerian farmers and investors, saying they are “performing miracles” across various agricultural sectors and regions, with the high quality of local products as clear evidence of their efforts. He noted that national agricultural output is increasingly in demand, both in quantity and quality.
He further announced that Algeria is on track to achieve self-sufficiency in milk within two years, thanks to a major investment project in Adrar in partnership with Qatari investors, focusing on dairy farming and milk production.
Addressing the livestock sector, the President stressed the need for a comprehensive strategy. He mentioned ongoing cooperation with the Algerian Farmers Union to solve persistent challenges in the field. As part of this solution, Algeria has authorized livestock imports from African countries such as Mali and Niger through barter agreements. However, he warned that strict laws would be enacted to combat harmful practices affecting national livestock wealth—especially the illegal slaughter of ewes.
President Tebboune also urged livestock breeders to prioritize national interest and warned against unreasonable price hikes. “It is unacceptable for a ram to cost 17 million centimes. Just thinking about selling it at that price is wrong,” he said, highlighting Algeria’s vast livestock resources, particularly in sheep.
He commended Algeria’s growing export capabilities, particularly in agriculture, attributing the success to freeing the sector from bureaucracy and introducing advanced farming techniques. The President also reaffirmed the government’s firm stance against speculation, highlighting prison sentences of up to 30 years for offenders and noting a generational shift away from such practices.
In terms of water security, he outlined Algeria’s progress in launching seawater desalination plants, inter-dam water transfers, and enhanced groundwater use to meet growing needs.
Economic Revival and Energy Expansion
Looking ahead, President Tebboune projected a strong rebound for the national economy, with over 11,000 investment projects set to begin production. He confirmed the recent easing of import regulations for car parts within reasonable limits and praised the growing trend among businesses toward local manufacturing, job creation, and added value.
On the subject of uranium, President Tebboune revealed that Algeria is currently enriching uranium to a level of 3–5% for peaceful uses, particularly in the medical sector, with the possibility of exports in the future. He noted that while Algeria’s reserves aren’t as extensive as Niger’s, the country remains open to serious foreign partnerships.
He reiterated Algeria’s ambition to develop added value in the hydrocarbons sector, especially by boosting local refining capacity. Since 2022, Algeria has stopped importing fuel, and the same policy will apply to diesel by 2026.
On the international energy front, President Tebboune reaffirmed Algeria’s commitment to doubling its natural gas production within the next five years, enhancing its status as a “very reliable supplier,” especially to European markets. He also revealed plans for a third pipeline linking Algeria to Italy and then Germany for the export of hydrogen and both conventional and renewable electricity.
He emphasized the strategic and historic nature of Algerian-Italian relations, praising the “efficiency” of their cooperation. Italian investment in Algeria, particularly in automobile assembly and agriculture, was also highlighted. In a symbolic gesture, he announced that the “Enrico Mattei Foundation”—named after a friend of the Algerian Revolution—will soon open an office in Algeria.
Diplomatic Normalization with Spain
President Tebboune expressed satisfaction with the normalization of relations with Spain, especially in trade, following a period of diplomatic tension. He confirmed that Algeria will import part of its sheep supply from Spain in preparation for the upcoming Eid al-Adha.
Written by: Nor Eleslam – Dzwatch.dz
