Baladna Farm Adrar Expects 35,000 US Cattle November 25
The Baladna integrated agricultural project in Adrar is poised for a significant development with the expected arrival of its initial shipment of 35,000 cattle from the United States by November 25. This major Algerian-Qatari investment, valued at $3.5 billion, aims to transform the Sahara into an agricultural hub of excellence. The project pursues key national objectives: reducing import expenditures by an estimated $1.5 billion, reinforcing food sovereignty, and fostering development in the Algerian Sahara. Preparations for the cattle's reception are underway, with a dedicated hangar at Adrar airport anticipated to be ready by November 15.
Spanning 219,000 hectares, the Baladna project integrates large-scale forage cultivation, a bovine breeding operation for 240,000 cows, and a state-of-the-art milk powder factory. Upon full operation, the facility is projected to produce 1.7 billion liters of raw milk annually, translating to 193,000 tons of milk powder, with the strategic ambition to meet 50% of the nation's milk powder requirements. Minister of Agriculture Sid Ali Khaldi, during a visit on October 19, confirmed an 80% completion rate for the project's work, noting steady progress.
The initiative is set to create a total of 20,000 jobs and is currently employing 1,360 workers. It also emphasizes a social dimension and aims to revitalize the Saharan economy by boosting local red meat production and facilitating a substantial transfer of agricultural technology. Minister Khaldi stated the goal to establish the Algerian South as a leading center for agricultural investment, leveraging regional potential and supporting integrated agricultural sectors. Ali Al Ali, Chairman of Baladna El Djazaïr, highlighted the project's role in establishing a foundation for Algeria's long-term food security, particularly in milk production. Raw milk production is slated to commence in late 2027, followed by milk powder production in early 2028.
