Algeria seeks fisheries collaboration with New Zealand to double production by 2030  

ALGERIA – On November 13, 2024, Algerian experts met with their New Zealand counterparts to discuss areas of cooperation that could bolster Algeria’s ambitious target of doubling its fish production to 200,000 tonnes annually by 2030.  

The discussions, announced by Algeria’s Ministry of Fisheries and Fisheries Production, focused on three key areas: specialised training in fishing and aquaculture, sharing experiences to foster cooperative activities, and enhancing sector organisation. 

Collaboration on scientific research to develop sustainable fishing practices was also emphasised, with plans for partnerships between Algeria’s National Centre for Research and Development in Fisheries and Aquaculture (CNRDPA) and New Zealand research institutions.  

Algeria aims to leverage New Zealand’s extensive expertise in fisheries management, being a global leader in sustainable fishing and aquaculture. 

According to the FAO, New Zealand produced 400,000 tonnes of fish in 2022, with aquaculture accounting for 75% of this output. 

In comparison, Algeria’s 2023 fish production stood at 125,500 tonnes, with aquaculture contributing less than 5%. 

The disparity highlights the significant growth potential Algeria could unlock through knowledge transfer and modern practices.  

New Zealand’s success in sustainable fisheries and aquaculture is a blueprint for Algeria’s growth strategy.

The proposed training initiatives will equip Algerian professionals with advanced skills in fishing techniques, aquaculture management, and sustainability practices, enabling them to address gaps in the local industry.  

Algeria’s fisheries sector is vital to the country’s economy, supporting coastal communities with employment and income. However, recent years have seen fluctuations in production, with output declining from 105,000 tonnes in 2019 to 85,998 tonnes in 2022. 

The government remains optimistic, projecting an annual growth of 1.2% and aiming for substantial gains by 2030.  

The potential collaboration with New Zealand underscores Algeria’s commitment to sustainable growth. 

By integrating modern techniques, fostering innovation, and strengthening the capacity of local stakeholders, Algeria hopes to build a resilient and competitive fisheries sector that contributes to national food security and economic stability.  

In related news, the Ministry of Fisheries and Fish Production has partnered with the Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) to establish an aquaculture feed factory in Ouargla’s Hassi Ben Abdellah region. 

Once completed, the facility will produce an estimated 10 tons of aquaculture feed daily, primarily for Algeria’s domestic market. 

This development is expected to address one of the major bottlenecks in Algeria’s aquaculture: the availability of high-quality, locally produced feed for fish and shrimp farmers.

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