German agricultural technology firm Bayer has begun testing maize seed varieties in Algeria's desert regions to evaluate their performance for local conditions. The company aims to cover 5,000 hectares over the next five years, with current efforts focused on center-pivot irrigation trials. Regional Director Amina Lekgima confirmed that Algeria is a key market, noting that establishing a local production plant is not currently in the plans, as focus remains on field evaluation. Additionally, Bayer is leveraging artificial intelligence at its research centers in Lyon to develop crop protection solutions, with officials emphasizing their adherence to strict scientific and regulatory standards in response to environmental critiques.