Algerian Oil Producers Address Rumors of Shortage

Algerian oil producers Cevital, SIM, and La Belle have addressed rumors of an impending shortage of table oil, reassuring consumers that production and distribution are proceeding normally. The companies made the statements in response to alarmist information circulating on social media, which suggested that a shortage and price increase were imminent. According to the producers, their factories are operating regularly, and the raw materials are available.

Cevital Agroalimentaire issued a statement assuring that it regularly ensures the supply of its food oils to the national market. The company emphasized that there are no disruptions to its production or distribution. Similarly, SIM Industries Alimentaires confirmed that its production of table oil under the Zitna and El Bahia brands is ongoing, with its production units functioning regularly.

La Belle also issued a statement reassuring citizens that oil is available on the market, with its production units operating normally and at full capacity. The company stated that the quantities produced are sufficient to cover consumer needs in different regions of the country. The group reiterated its commitment to continuing its production and supply activities without interruption.

The Algerian government subsidizes table oil, which is sold at regulated prices: 125 DA for a one-liter format, 250 DA for two liters, and 650 DA for five liters. The country produces over one million tons of table oil per year. The producers' statements aim to alleviate concerns among consumers, who were worried about a potential shortage.

The issue of false information dissemination has been highlighted, with informal actors contributing to the spread of rumors and market tensions. The government is monitoring the situation closely, with the Minister of Trade Interior and Market Regulation, Amel Abdellatif, meeting with oil and sugar producers on October 26 to discuss production capacities and measures to ensure product availability.

The meeting examined safety stocks, production capacities, and measures to guarantee the availability of these products, particularly with the approach of Ramadan. The government aims to maintain market stability and prevent artificial tensions caused by false information.

The producers' assurances and government monitoring aim to maintain consumer confidence and prevent market disruptions. The situation highlights the importance of verifying information before dissemination to avoid unnecessary market tensions.

Key points

• Algerian oil producers have reassured consumers that production and distribution are normal, amid rumors of a shortage.
• The government is monitoring the situation and working to maintain market stability.
• Table oil is a subsidized product in Algeria, sold at regulated prices.