BY: Dr. Hana Saada
From Import Dependency to Industrial Self-Sufficiency: A Testament to Strategic Governance and Youth Empowerment
Algiers, Algeria | April 16th, 2025 — In a compelling appearance on Dzair Tube’s “Special Meeting” program, Algerian entrepreneur Omar Adadoua illuminated the nation’s transformative economic journey, attributing its success to President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s decisive policies and unwavering support for local investors and skilled professionals.
Championing Local Industry and Innovation
Adadoua, who transitioned from an importer to a pioneering manufacturer, has established four companies specializing in plastic materials. These enterprises now produce domestically manufactured plastic additives, significantly reducing Algeria’s reliance on imports. This shift not only bolsters the national economy but also underscores the potential of local industries to meet domestic demands efficiently.
Looking ahead, Adadoua announced the inauguration of a new recycling project slated for June, poised to create between 200 and 400 jobs. This initiative aligns with global sustainability trends and positions Algeria as a competitive player in the international recycling market.
Strategic Investments in Agriculture and Energy
Highlighting President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s commitment to economic diversification, Adadoua praised the substantial investments in agriculture, particularly in the Sahara region. He noted that Algeria now produces 80% of its durum wheat domestically, with projections to achieve full self-sufficiency in the coming year. This advancement is expected to save the country approximately $3 billion in import costs.
The Algerian entrepreneur stated, “Algeria has experienced a significant shift in its agricultural sector, particularly in the Sahara Desert, which is now seen as a hub for investment thanks to President Tebboune’s bold and forward-looking vision. The country aims for self-sufficiency in wheat production, targeting a 100% domestic supply in the coming year, which would save Algeria approximately $3 billion in imports. This progress is attributed to the government’s focus on overcoming bureaucratic barriers and fostering local entrepreneurship. Moreover, the focus on cultivating vegetables, fruits, and legumes in the desert signifies a strategic move towards food security and sustainable agricultural practices. These efforts reflect a broader vision to harness the nation’s natural resources effectively.”
Fostering Human Capital and Youth Empowerment
Adadoua emphasized the importance of investing in human capital as a cornerstone of Algeria’s economic strategy. He lauded President Tebboune’s proactive engagement with investors and skilled professionals, fostering an environment conducive to innovation and entrepreneurship.
“Algeria is shifting its focus towards investing in human capital and innovation to drive economic growth. President Tebboune has prioritized the development of local talent, exemplified by the collaboration between the government and researchers in fields like lithium production for battery manufacturing. This strategic shift is aimed at fostering economic independence, with a vision to significantly boost GDP by 2027. Additionally, the government is working to create job opportunities for graduates, with an emphasis on self-sufficiency in sectors like agriculture, particularly in producing domestic food products,” he explained.
By reducing bureaucratic hurdles and providing targeted support, the government has empowered young Algerians to pursue entrepreneurial ventures. Adadoua highlighted the critical role of academic qualifications and technical expertise in driving successful investments, advocating for comprehensive training programs to equip the youth with necessary skills.
“Algeria is encouraging youth engagement in the investment sector, with young entrepreneurs now establishing startups and ventures. The country’s shift from a bureaucratic environment to one that fosters openness has motivated many youths to explore investment opportunities. Young entrepreneurs are seeking both guidance and proper education to navigate the business world. Additionally, there is a growing recognition that expertise and technology are crucial for sustainable growth, making it essential to bring in external expertise to help nurture local projects,” he highlighted.
Dzair Tube’s guest went on saying, “The leadership is also emphasizing digitalization and transparency in investment practices, ensuring a promising future for Algeria’s economic growth.”
The collaboration between the government and the private sector has been instrumental in crafting a roadmap for emerging businesses. Adadoua underscored the significance of market research and understanding export potentials to ensure the viability of new projects.
“Algeria’s youth is highly capable, intelligent, and ambitious, as evidenced by their growing contributions in various fields, such as the production of locally made products. With the right environment and support, young Algerians can lead successful ventures, reducing dependency on imports and contributing significantly to the national economy. The focus should be on fostering trust in the young workforce, providing mentorship, and enhancing technical training. Keeping skilled individuals in the country and ensuring they are utilized within local industries will help Algeria emerge as a major player in global markets,” he stressed before further elaborating, “For Algerian youth to succeed in business, they must possess a clear vision, strong determination, and the ability to adapt. Entrepreneurs should carefully study their market and environment before starting any project. Success lies in understanding the local market, avoiding imitation, and focusing on innovative ideas that meet genuine needs. The path to entrepreneurship is not easy, but perseverance, learning from failures, and continuously refining one’s approach are crucial to achieving long-term success.”
He also noted that “Entrepreneurs should consider the potential for exporting excess products and ensure that their ventures align with market needs. Additionally, collaboration between the government and private investors is essential. Establishing platforms where young and experienced investors can meet and develop strategies for growing start-up businesses will play a critical role in boosting the country’s economy and achieving long-term growth goals.”
Adadoua’s insights underscore the transformative impact of President Tebboune’s forward-looking policies on Algeria’s economic landscape. By fostering local industries, investing in human capital, and promoting sustainable practices, Algeria is well on its way to achieving economic self-sufficiency and positioning itself as a formidable player on the global stage.
