Algerian Interior Minister Saïd Saïdoud has addressed the issue of rising prices and purchasing power in the country. Speaking at the installation ceremony of the new wali of Kasser El Bougari, he stated that the government will take measures to combat price hikes and speculation. Saïdoud emphasized that protecting the purchasing power of Algerians has become a top priority for the authorities. He also criticized what he described as greedy behavior by market operators.
Saïdoud sent direct messages to market operators, condemning practices that he said were incompatible with commercial ethics. He cited the example of tomatoes being sold for 200 Algerian dinars in August, questioning the actions of those who claimed to love Algeria and its people. The minister assured that the government was monitoring market developments and was ready to intervene to limit imbalances. He stressed that the goal was not to harm traders or farmers but to ensure a reasonable profit margin for operators while preserving citizens' ability to purchase basic goods.
The minister attributed the rise in poultry prices to losses suffered by the sector due to fires in eastern Algeria, as well as heatwaves and high temperatures. He predicted that the situation would return to normal in the coming period. Saïdoud also linked the increase in prices of some imported goods to external factors, including rising maritime transport costs and higher insurance premiums for goods and means of transport in sensitive waterways.
Saïdoud stated that the government had taken steps to mitigate the effects of natural crises, citing the implementation of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune's decisions to compensate those affected. He confirmed that compensation operations were complete. The minister linked this to the authorities' efforts to maintain economic and productive stability, particularly in sectors directly related to food supply.
The minister highlighted Algeria's agricultural production, citing what he described as record figures. He reported that agricultural production had reached $37 billion in 2025, with 42 million quintals of wheat produced. Saïdoud emphasized the need for all stakeholders to adhere to commercial ethics, calling on traders and operators to consider citizens' social circumstances.
Saïdoud concluded his remarks by stressing the importance of unity and solidarity. He urged traders and market operators to be mindful of citizens' situations and to prioritize their needs. The minister's comments come as the government seeks to address concerns about rising prices and their impact on citizens' purchasing power.
The government's efforts to stabilize the market and protect citizens' purchasing power are ongoing. Saïdoud's statements reflect the authorities' commitment to addressing the challenges facing the economy and ensuring that basic goods remain affordable for Algerians. The minister's call for commercial ethics and social responsibility is seen as a key aspect of this effort.
Key points
- The Algerian government has pledged to take measures to combat rising prices and protect citizens' purchasing power.
- The minister attributed the rise in poultry prices to losses suffered by the sector due to fires and heatwaves.
- Algeria's agricultural production reached $37 billion in 2025, with 42 million quintals of wheat produced.
