Algerian-Qatari Megaproject, Worth $3.5 Billion, to Meet 50% of National Powdered Milk Demand
BY: Dr. Hana Saada
Algiers, April 26, 2024 – An ambitious agreement was reached between the National Investment Fund (FNI) and the Qatari company Baladna for the production of powdered milk in southern Algeria. This agreement aims to meet 50% of the national demand and will create approximately 5,000 direct jobs.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development in Algeria signed a framework agreement with the Qatari company Baladna in Algiers. This agreement aims to realize a large-scale project in the dairy production sector in the southern regions of Algeria, particularly in the Adrar province. The agreement, signed by the Director-General of Agricultural Investment and Land at the Ministry, Souad Assous, and the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Baladna, Mohamad Moutaz al-Khayyat, was attended by several ministers including Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Youcef Cherfa, Finance Minister Laâziz Faïd, Energy and Mines Minister Mohamed Arkab, Trade and Export Promotion Minister Tayeb Zitouni, Hydraulic Minister Taha Derbal, and Industry and Pharmaceutical Production Minister Ali Aoun. Representatives from various institutions and organizations, along with the Qatari Ambassador to Algeria, Abdelaziz Ali al-Nama, were also present.
In essence, this agreement involves the implementation of a structuring project through the establishment of integrated dairy cattle farms and powdered milk production. This is the result of a partnership between the Qatari company Baladna and the Algerian government, represented by the FNI. “The conclusion of this agreement comes after two years of continuous efforts with the Algerian partner,” said Moutaz al-Khayyat, emphasizing that it is the “largest integrated project worldwide.”
Furthermore, it is explained that the project, covering an area of 117,000 hectares, aims to reach a production capacity of 270,000 dairy cows within the ninth year of operation, ultimately producing 1.7 billion liters of milk annually. It is also planned that this $3.5 billion project will cover 50% of the national demand for powdered milk, supply the local market with beef, and contribute to the growth of the national cattle herd.
Cherfa: “Production to Begin in 2026”
Cherfa highlighted that “production will be carried out in 4 phases, with the first phase starting in 2026 and the last occurring 9 years after the project launch.” Regarding financing, Cherfa reminded that it will be joint, with 51% from the joint venture to be created and 49% from Algerian bank loans. The joint venture managing the project will be owned 49% by the National Investment Fund (FNI) and 51% by the Qatari side.
The Qatari Ambassador to Algeria emphasized that this agreement marks an important step in the increasing cooperation between the two countries, a result of strong determination and enlightened leadership vision. Mr. al-Nama stressed Qatar’s importance in its relations with Algeria, reflecting its regional significance. He also mentioned other promising opportunities in various fields, underscoring the commitment to maintain and strengthen bilateral relations to make it an example of successful and sustainable cooperation among Arab countries.
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