Algeria Aims for Self-Sufficiency in Durum Wheat Amid Sector Growth

Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune hailed the country's durum wheat sector, highlighting its expected self-sufficiency in the current agricultural season. The development is attributed to positive factors such as changes in technical practices and favorable rainfall levels.

Tebboune described achieving self-sufficiency as a 'miracle' and emphasized that it reinforces national pride and embodies Algeria's efforts toward food sovereignty. This outcome also translates into reducing the durum wheat import bill by over $1.5 billion, according to the President.

The agricultural sector is experiencing a 'quantum leap,' with its products now sought after abroad, particularly in countries where they were previously imported, such as onions, garlic, and potatoes. The State aims to address ongoing issues, including speculation in the livestock/meat sector.

Outside the agricultural sector, Algeria has made significant strides toward self-sufficiency, with the oil refining sector achieving self-sufficiency in fuel production (gasoline and kerosene) in 2022 and beginning exports. The industrial sector is also moving towards self-sufficiency across several branches.

The President highlighted the importance of major structural economic projects, including the Algiers, Tamanrasset railway project, which will allow Algeria to reinforce its leading role in driving African integration. Efforts are ongoing to achieve water security through accelerating seawater desalination plant programs along the coastline.

Tebboune emphasized the need for the business climate in Algeria to be improved and highlighted the 'Single Window' initiative, which saves investors time and effort while avoiding bureaucratic hurdles. The President also underscored the significance of removing Algeria from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list as an important achievement.

In measures to protect purchasing power, the President confirmed that actions taken have led to better control over inflation rates. Inflation dropped 'significantly' to 2% in 2026, down from over 11% in previous years, according to Tebboune.