Why Algeria Still Depends on Wheat Imports: Challenges and Prospects for Self-Sufficiency

Algeria holds one of the leading positions among wheat-importing countries in the world on a per capita basis, indicating its significant reliance on external supplies to meet domestic food needs. Despite having large land resources and multiple government initiatives to revive the agricultural sector, the country has yet to achieve self-sufficiency in wheat.

This is reported by AgroReview

Reasons for High Dependence on Imports

The demand for wheat in Algeria is steadily increasing: bread, couscous, and pasta are staple foods in the daily diet of the population. Currently, the country has over 45 million residents, and this number continues to rise, which in turn boosts wheat consumption, especially in urban areas. However, domestic production remains limited: the crop yield is below global standards due to issues with outdated irrigation systems, climate risks, inadequate seed quality, and a lack of widespread mechanization. Additionally, the potential of arable land in the High Plateaus and southern regions has yet to be realized due to the absence of developed industrial agricultural infrastructure. This keeps domestic supply significantly lower than demand.

Agricultural Policy and Strategic Vision

In recent years, the Algerian government has implemented a new strategy aimed at attracting investments in modern agricultural technologies, expanding cultivated areas, and activating the private sector, particularly with the involvement of foreign business partners. Special attention is given to promising regions such as El Oued, Timimoun, and Adrar, where centralized irrigation systems can be introduced and crops can be grown year-round. Pilot programs in these areas have shown improved yields due to modern seeds and more efficient irrigation; however, scaling up such initiatives is hindered by logistical challenges, a shortage of labor resources, high operational costs, and underdeveloped transport infrastructure in remote areas.

Self-sufficiency in wheat remains a strategic goal that regularly appears in national political documents, but the gap between declared objectives and actual achievements is still significant. In recent years, Algeria has imported over 7 million tons of wheat even during favorable harvest periods, maintaining its status as one of the largest per capita importers. The country remains vulnerable to climate risks, particularly droughts in the northern belt. Without significant investments in water resources, including desalination and modern irrigation, the country will continue to rely on imports.

Algeria’s ambition for self-sufficiency in wheat is based on the desire for food security, economic independence, and national dignity. However, this goal may remain merely a political slogan in the absence of sustainable progress in increasing yields, production efficiency, and infrastructure development. The agricultural strategy implemented outlines development directions, but to achieve visible results, the country needs long-term efforts, consistent policies, and substantial investments. While self-sufficiency in wheat remains a long-term prospect, it requires a realistic approach and comprehensive modernization of the agricultural sector.