Algiers Aquaculture Expansion Targets 4,000 Tons by 2028
Atef Kaddour, Director of Marine Fishing and Aquaculture for Algiers Province, confirmed a notable increase in aquaculture activity within the capital during the current year. This expansion has positively impacted the market by increasing fish supply and contributing to a reduction in prices. Significant projects are now in motion, designed to further enhance aquaculture production across the region.
Among these initiatives, plans include the imminent installation of 16 new floating cages, which will be added to the western part of Algiers Province. This expansion is designed to elevate the total number of cages in that specific area to 32 and is projected to boost overall production to 4,000 tons by 2028. Such growth is expected to double production levels, ensuring a steady supply of marine aquaculture fish, particularly Royal Seabream ("Daurade"). This has already led to a decrease in "Daurade" prices, which have ranged between 990 DZD and 1300 DZD per kilogram, a development welcomed by consumers. Additionally, freshwater fish farming, focusing on Red Tilapia, has demonstrated success, offering a high-quality product at a competitive price of 600 DZD per kilogram.
To enhance consumer access and promote local aquaculture products, several new fish sales points are being established. Algiers currently operates 17 active sales points across various areas, including Sidi Abdellah, Tessala El Merdja, Draria, Souidania, Baba Hassen, Khraicia, Ben Aknoun, and Birkhadem. Preparations are also underway to open more points in municipalities such as Bir Touta, Ain Taya, Place des Martyrs, and Reghaia, aiming to cover the entire province and offer direct-from-producer sales at competitive prices. Furthermore, infrastructure development includes two landing sites currently under construction at Coco Plage and Bateau Cassé, with work soon to commence at the Zeralda landing site. These projects are intended to support small-scale fishing and recreational boats, improve working conditions for professionals, and alleviate congestion at existing port facilities.
