Algeria accelerates efforts to boost domestic production, processing capacity

ALGERIA – Algeria is making significant strides in strengthening its dairy industry, an essential component of the country’s food security strategy.

On October 24, the government announced plans to commission three industrial projects by the end of the first quarter of 2025. These projects are expected to increase Algeria’s national milk production capacity by an impressive 3,500 tons per day.

This ambitious move as the country aims to reduce its reliance on imported dairy products and achieve greater self-sufficiency.

A major highlight in this endeavor is the ongoing dairy project led by Qatar’s Baladna Group in the wilaya of Adrar.

Launched on September 3, this US$3.5 billion investment spans an expansive 117,000 hectares. The project includes the establishment of a state-of-the-art dairy farm and a processing unit designed to produce nearly 200,000 tons of powdered milk annually.

The facility, which is set to begin operations in 2026, will significantly enhance Algeria’s capacity to meet domestic demand for milk and dairy products.

To support the growing processing infrastructure, Algeria must ensure a steady supply of raw milk. This requires a substantial increase in the country’s dairy herd, which currently stands at approximately 900,000 head, according to official data.

Recognizing this need, Algeria has turned to the United States for high-yield dairy cows. These American breeds are among the most productive globally, with an average milk yield of about 11 tons per cow annually, according to the USDA’s 2023 report.

The decision to import American dairy cows reflects Algeria’s strategic approach to rapidly boosting milk production.

By introducing high-yield breeds, the country aims to maximize output and meet the rising demand from its expanding processing units.

Additionally, these efforts align with the government’s broader vision of enhancing the competitiveness of the dairy sector and reducing dependency on powdered milk imports.

Beyond production, Algeria is also focusing on improving the overall efficiency and sustainability of its dairy industry.

Investments in modern processing technologies and infrastructure are expected to streamline operations, reduce waste, and enhance product quality. 

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