Algerian experts have welcomed President Abdelmadjid Tebboune's decision to establish a specialized council for the agriculture sector. The council is expected to assess the current state of the sector and explore new opportunities for growth. This move is seen as a strategic step towards enhancing food security and promoting the sector's development. The council's establishment was announced during a recent cabinet meeting.
The agriculture sector has become a significant contributor to Algeria's economy, accounting for around 15% of the country's GDP. The sector's output is valued at over $37 billion. According to economic expert Mourad Kouchachi, the sector's growth is a result of recent efforts to improve crop yields, particularly in strategic areas such as wheat and barley. The government has also made progress in organizing agricultural land and expanding digitalization.
Kouchachi emphasized that Algeria has made significant strides in achieving self-sufficiency in certain crops. The country has reduced its reliance on imports, and the government aims to continue this trend. The establishment of the specialized council is expected to further support this goal. The council will provide a platform for stakeholders to discuss challenges and opportunities in the sector.
International development expert Abd al-Rahman Hadfi believes that the council will provide an opportunity to evaluate the sector's performance and identify areas for improvement. He emphasized the need to support large-scale projects in areas such as grain production, dairy farming, and meat production. Hadfi also called for strengthening the role of specialized agencies, such as the National Dairy Office.
Agricultural expert Lahlou Boukhalfa noted that the council's establishment coincides with significant developments in the sector, including plans to amend the agricultural guidance law. The law aims to adapt policies to the specific needs of different regions and crops. Boukhalfa highlighted that domestic production currently meets around 75% of Algeria's needs for certain products.
Boukhalfa called for a comprehensive plan to improve the organization of various agricultural branches and accelerate modernization and digitalization. The plan should address the specific needs of different regions and crops. The expert emphasized that the sector's growth is crucial for achieving food security and reducing reliance on imports.
The council's establishment is seen as a positive step towards promoting the agriculture sector's development. The sector's growth is expected to have a positive impact on Algeria's economy and food security. Key stakeholders will discuss challenges and opportunities in the sector and explore new strategies for growth.
Key points
- President Tebboune's decision to establish a specialized council for agriculture aims to boost food security and promote sector development.
- The agriculture sector accounts for around 15% of Algeria's GDP and has a output valued at over $37 billion.
- Experts call for a comprehensive plan to improve the organization of various agricultural branches and accelerate modernization and digitalization.
