Algeria has entered into a framework agreement with Italian firm Bonifiche Ferraresi to develop an expansive grain, legume, and pasta production project in the southern province of Timimoun. The Algerian Press Service (APS) reported on Saturday that this initiative aligns with the country’s strategic agricultural development goals.
The project, valued at 420 million euros (455 million U.S. dollars), was endorsed by Algeria’s Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Youcef Chorfa, during the signing ceremony. Chorfa emphasised that this initiative supports Algeria’s national strategy to enhance food security by focusing on vital sectors such as grains, legumes, sugar and oil plants, seeds, and milk production.
Chorfa highlighted that this project is the second significant agricultural and industrial venture Algeria has embarked upon in recent months. The first was an agreement with Qatar’s Baladna company in April, aimed at establishing a dairy farm and powdered milk production facility in the southern province of Adrar. These developments reflect the Algerian government’s increasing commitment to attracting both public and private investments in agriculture, in collaboration with international partners.
Federico Vecchioni, CEO of Bonifiche Ferraresi, described the project as highly strategic and significant due to its international scope and potential impact.
Covering an area of 36,000 hectares, the project will focus on cultivating wheat, lentils, dried beans, soybeans, and chickpeas. Additionally, it will feature facilities for pasta manufacturing, storage silos, and other essential infrastructure. The initiative is expected to generate over 6,700 jobs, contributing to the local economy and providing new employment opportunities in the region.
This collaboration between Algeria and Italy marks a pivotal step in enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability in Algeria, reinforcing the country’s dedication to securing its food supply and supporting economic growth through strategic international partnerships.
