L’indispensable modernisation – Le Jeune Indépendant

The modernization of the fishing and aquaculture sector is today a strategic necessity for Algeria. This was declared this Wednesday by Badreddine Benali, director of investment programs at the General Directorate of Fisheries and Aquaculture, affirming that it is now time to take the step from artisanal fishing to fully professional fishing, capable of meeting the requirements of food security and sustainable development.

The issue is twofold. According to him, it is a question of developing the country’s maritime resources while diversifying sources of production through aquaculture. Faced with the decline in sea fishing, aquaculture represents a promising alternative, particularly with species such as sea bream, sea bass and tilapia, Benali told National Radio. He adds that tilapia, whose breeding is already mastered by Algerian operators, is distinguished by its ability to adapt to different regions, including the south of the country. Rich in protein and low in fat, it offers excellent value for money. The authorities are targeting production of 4,000 tonnes of tilapia over the next three years, supported by an ambitious aquaculture development program in thirteen wilayas. This plan also provides for the production of 45 million fry, a sign of a clear desire to structure the sector.”

Furthermore, and to encourage investors and producers, several incentive measures have been put in place. According to Benali, the State grants a bonus of 50 dinars for each kilogram of fish produced, a concrete gesture to stimulate national production. Other measures reinforce this momentum, in particular tax advantages ranging from “exemption from stamps to credit subsidies, thus facilitating investment in aquaculture infrastructure”.

On the technical level, the government authorized the importation of industrial fishing vessels less than fifteen years old, extending the operating life of these boats in order to modernize the national fleet, he said, adding that these steel vessels, such as 45-meter tuna boats, will allow Algeria to move towards deep-sea fishing and strengthen its presence on regional markets.

“This dynamic of openness is accompanied by a desire to attract foreign partnerships. Mauritanian and Omani investors have expressed interest in joint projects, particularly within the framework of a quota of 31,000 tonnes granted by Mauritania, intended to be developed by Algerian operators. These initiatives reflect Algeria’s growing place in the regional fishing and aquaculture network,” according to Benali.

It is in this context that the 10th will be held in Orane International Fisheries and Aquaculture Exhibition (SIPA 2025) with the participation of 179 exhibitors, including 25 foreigners representing 16 countries. The Sultanate of Oman will be the guest of honor, with a large delegation of economic operators.