Algeria's potato sector: balancing production capacity with market stability

Although Algeria ranks as Africa's second-largest potato producer, the sector faces persistent market instability. Agricultural expert Laala Boukhalfa asserts that the issue is not a lack of production capacity, which has expanded into southern regions like El Oued, but rather a lack of systematic planning. Market imbalances lead to two extremes: either significant losses for farmers during periods of surplus, or sharp price hikes that impact consumers when supply drops. To address these challenges, the expert suggests implementing precise economic planning, strengthening the role of the national company tasked with managing surpluses, and effectively utilizing cold storage facilities to stabilize seasonal fluctuations. By improving statistical oversight and providing marketing guarantees for farmers, the goal is to ensure sustainable production and protect both the profitability of the agricultural sector and the purchasing power of the public.