Government Sets Potato Price Ceilings to Aid Consumers
The Algerian Ministry of Internal Trade and National Market Regulation has implemented new price ceilings for potatoes, fixing the retail price at 80-90 Algerian Dinars per kilogram. This significant government action, which came into effect following an official note dated October 1, 2026, directly responds to instructions from President Abdelmadjid Tebboune to preserve citizens' purchasing power. The measure also sets farm-gate prices for potatoes between 60 and 70 DA per kilogram, establishing a controlled margin throughout the commercial chain.
Potatoes are a fundamental staple in the Algerian diet, with consumption estimated at 110 kg per inhabitant annually, tripling the global average. This high demand made the product particularly susceptible to price volatility, with rates reaching up to 150 DA per kilogram in some parts of the capital and major cities in recent months. The persistent increase had compelled households to adjust their culinary habits. The new framework for potato prices was established after an inter-ministerial council meeting and extensive consultation with representatives from various agricultural sectors, including farmers, farm managers, and cold storage operators.
To ensure strict adherence, retailers are now prohibited from exceeding the 90 DA per kilogram limit and face sanctions for non-compliance, with their profit margin capped at 20 DA. The Ministry's General Secretary has instructed regional and wilaya commerce directors to immediately deploy control services to monitor compliance throughout the marketing chain. The central administration mandates rigorous daily reporting on the execution of these ministerial instructions, requiring full mobilization from regional directors to guarantee the effectiveness of these measures nationwide.
This initiative is part of a broader government strategy to stabilize agricultural prices, protect citizens' purchasing power, and support national sectors. The Ministry is also intensifying its control over cold storage facilities and other storage spaces, working in coordination with security services. These efforts are designed to curb speculative practices and monopolies that can disrupt market balance, thereby ensuring consistent access to essential goods for all Algerian citizens.
