Algeria has successfully reclaimed its historical share of the bluefin tuna fishing quota following negotiations at the 29th session of the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) held in Seville, Spain. The Directorate-General for Fisheries and Aquaculture announced the significant increase, marking a pivotal moment for Algeria’s fishing industry.
The agreement secures Algeria an additional 437 tons annually, raising the total quota from 2023 tons to 2460 tons, effective from 2026. This substantial increase brings Algeria’s share to approximately 5.1% of the total quota allocated to member states. The Directorate has hailed this as a strategic achievement, rectifying a historical imbalance that saw Algeria’s quota reduced to a mere 1% in 2010 due to its absence from that year’s session.
The outcome resulted from meticulous and protracted negotiations led by the Algerian delegation, under the direct guidance of the Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Fisheries. Despite intense competition among nations seeking to expand their quotas and the addition of new ICCAT members, Algeria successfully included a crucial clause in the final recommendation. This clause mandates the continued review of Algeria’s case in 2028, aiming for complete compensation for past losses.
Further demonstrating Algeria’s growing influence within ICCAT, Amar Ouchali, Algeria’s representative, was re-elected as Chairman of Sub-Committee 4 for a new term.
The Directorate’s statement emphasized the significant economic implications of this achievement. The increased quota is expected to bolster Algeria’s position in the global bluefin tuna market, driven by high international demand for this valuable species. This development is projected to support export revenues, enhance food security, and further develop the fisheries and aquaculture sector. The Directorate also commended the effective role played by Algerian diplomacy in securing this strategic success.
