Authorities Set Potato Price at 90 Dinars Per Kilo
The Algerian Ministry of Internal Trade and National Market Regulation has implemented a cap on the retail price of potatoes for consumption, setting the maximum at 90 Algerian dinars per kilogram. This decision is accompanied by reinforced controls across all commercial circuits, aimed at curbing inflation and protecting the purchasing power of citizens. The intervention comes as part of broader efforts to stabilize food prices, a key concern for Algerian households.
This specific pricing structure follows an inter-ministerial meeting held on October 1st, which secured an agreement with representatives from various professional agricultural sectors. These include small, medium, and large-scale farmers, as well as cold storage operators. Under a directive from the Ministry of Trade, the selling price of potatoes directly from farmers has been set between 60 and 70 dinars per kilogram, ensuring a controlled margin leading to the retail cap of 80 to 90 dinars per kilogram. The Ministry has further instructed its control services to ensure strict adherence to these new prices at all stages of commercialization, with daily reports to be submitted to the central administration. Regional trade directors are tasked with overseeing the application of these directives, signaling a strengthened market surveillance.
The measure underscores the significant role of potatoes in the daily consumption of Algerian households, making price fluctuations a visible indicator of the cost of living. This intervention follows recent price increases and aligns with President Abdelmadjid Tebboune's repeated affirmations of the state's commitment to preserving purchasing power. Field control operations have already commenced in several wilayas to verify product availability and ensure compliance with the reference prices. President Tebboune has also stated that the majority of farmers are not responsible for the elevated price levels, calling on those responsible for increases to take accountability.
