Algeria launches first national livestock feed production unit to boost animal protein production 

ALGERIA – The government of Algeria recently inaugurated its first national livestock feed production unit in the wilaya of Biskra to strengthen agricultural sustainability and reduce reliance on imports. 

The facility, developed under the Centre de Recherche Scientifique et Technique sur les Régions Arides (CRSTRA), was officially opened by Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Kamel Baddari.

“This initiative represents a significant step in transforming scientific research into locally produced, high-quality products,” said Baddari during the inauguration.

The new facility is a major milestone for Algeria’s agricultural sector, offering high-nutritional-value cattle feed at competitive prices. 

It is designed to address growing domestic demand while supporting the country’s strategic goal of food self-sufficiency.

According to CRSTRA, the unit leverages the institution’s longstanding leadership in innovation and patent development to manufacture scientifically backed livestock feed. 

The project reflects the government’s broader commitment to promoting local production and sustainable farming practices.

Algeria’s need for such a development is urgent. Animal feed imports are projected to climb from 55.6 million kilograms to nearly 61.8 million kilograms by 2028, based on data from ReportLinker. 

This steady increase, driven by rising urbanisation, a growing middle class, and a surge in animal-based protein consumption, underscores the critical need for domestic alternatives.

The new Biskra facility aims to reduce this dependence on foreign suppliers while fostering economic growth in Algeria’s arid regions.

This livestock production unit will help meet the rising demand in animal feed to support the growing protein needs of this North African country.

Overcoming formidable challenges 

Despite the promise, Algeria’s animal feed market faces notable challenges. Chief among them is the volatility in global prices for key raw materials such as corn, soybeans, and wheat, which significantly impacts production costs. 

Additionally, a shortage of skilled labour and limited technical expertise continue to hinder the adoption of modern feed manufacturing technologies, sometimes resulting in poor-quality outputs.

To address these concerns, the government has introduced a series of strategic policies aimed at stimulating local feed production and supporting farmers.

These include subsidies and incentives for livestock producers, discounted bulk feed purchases under national schemes, and support for manufacturers that utilise locally grown crops, particularly corn, to reduce input costs. 

Such measures not only lower production expenses but also create new revenue streams for domestic farmers.

Infrastructure investments have also played a crucial role. Improved transportation networks have made it more feasible for producers to deliver feed to remote livestock farms, while enhanced access to credit has enabled smaller manufacturers to expand operations and compete more effectively.

Emerging trends like precision farming are further reshaping the industry. Technologies such as AI, drones, and sensors are increasingly used to monitor and optimise feed production, reducing waste and maximising yield. 

Additionally, rising global demand for organic and non-GMO feed presents new market opportunities that Algeria is well-positioned to explore.

The inauguration of the Biskra facility is a significant step in this direction. As Minister Baddari emphasised, it is a symbol of Algeria’s commitment to turning research into practical solutions for national development.

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