Algerian company Baladna is accelerating preparations for the arrival of dairy cows imported from the United States. The transportation of the cows is set to begin in November, marking the start of the second phase of an integrated agro-industrial project. The contracts for this phase are valued at over $635 million, with a total investment estimated at $3.5 billion. Preparations are underway at Adrar airport, with logistical simulations and coordination with relevant actors taking place to ensure the safe arrival of the cows.
A total of 30,000 dairy cows from nine US states will be transported over ten months, starting in November 2026, via 109 cargo flights. The goal is to establish a herd of 270,000 Holstein-Friesian cows. The project aims to produce 200,000 tonnes of powdered milk per year, covering nearly 50% of Algeria's market needs. Currently, Algeria imports around 400,000 tonnes of powdered milk annually.
Expert Laâla Boukhalfa emphasized that the project's success relies on adapting the bovine breeds to Algeria's arid climate. Boukhalfa stressed the importance of ensuring a continuous supply of high-quality green fodder and water, as well as implementing modern hygiene and veterinary protocols to preserve the health and productivity of the animals.
The project, developed in partnership with the Qatari firm Baladna and the Algerian state, represented by the National Investment Fund (FNI), spans 117,000 hectares. It features a complete vertical integration model, from fodder cultivation and cattle breeding to industrial milk powder production. The initiative is expected to generate thousands of direct and seasonal jobs in agriculture, industry, transportation, and services.
The project's second phase includes civil engineering works, the installation of a concrete plant, and the construction of necessary infrastructure for production to begin. Baladna has launched its first national recruitment campaign, with over 1,000 positions available. The company aims to ensure the optimal health and operational conditions for the arriving cows.
Algeria's reliance on powdered milk imports is significant, with the country seeking to reduce its import bill and consolidate its food sovereignty. The Baladna project is a strategic initiative aimed at addressing this challenge. With its large-scale production goals, the project is poised to make a substantial impact on Algeria's dairy industry.
The successful implementation of the project will depend on various factors, including the adaptation of the cows to the local climate and the availability of resources such as fodder and water. If successful, the project could serve as a model for future agro-industrial initiatives in Algeria and beyond. Key aspects of the project include its large-scale production goals and job creation potential.
Key points
- The project aims to produce 200,000 tonnes of powdered milk per year.
- The project will generate thousands of direct and seasonal jobs.
- The initiative features a complete vertical integration model.
