Algerian restaurants struggle as potato and oil shortages hit menus

The restaurant industry in Algeria is facing significant financial pressure due to the scarcity of potatoes and limited access to cooking oil. Fast-food establishments in cities like Béjaïa and various neighborhoods in Algiers, including Belouizdad and La Rotonde, have removed french fries from their offerings. Since fries account for 20 to 30 percent of these businesses' revenue, their absence is causing a sharp decline in earnings. Business owners are struggling to cover fixed costs like rent and payroll while facing supply chain disruptions. The sector is calling for a quick resolution to these shortages to prevent further financial losses and instability for their establishments.