Algeria is set to import a significant number of livestock in preparation for the upcoming Eid al-Adha celebrations. The move aims to ensure sufficient supply and stabilize prices in the local market during the festive period.
According to Sofiane Bahbou, President of the National Federation of Red Meat and Derivatives Importers, Algeria will source livestock from various countries. European nations such as Spain and Romania are expected to be key suppliers. Agreements are also in place with countries in Latin America, including Uruguay, making them potential sources for livestock imports. Australia is also being considered as a possible supplier.
Bahbou emphasized that competitive pricing is a major factor in selecting these countries. Furthermore, the compatibility of livestock breeds with Algerian breeds is crucial to ensure the quality of meat meets local preferences and standards. The focus is on procuring high-quality animals that align with the needs of Algerian consumers.
Earlier this month, the Minister of Agriculture held a coordination meeting to implement the President’s directives to import one million heads of sheep. The meeting highlighted the importance of learning from the 2025 Eid al-Adha import experience to improve efficiency and address any shortcomings. Decisions were made to expand the list of exporting countries and establish new health agreements with them. Additionally, specialized vessels will be chartered to transport the livestock.
Technical teams will be dispatched to exporting countries to verify the provided health guarantees. The number of quarantine stations will be doubled compared to last year. The private sector will be involved in transporting livestock from ports to various regions, and new mechanisms will be implemented to organize the sales process.
These measures are designed to ensure a smooth and efficient supply of livestock for Eid al-Adha, meeting the demand of the Algerian population.
