Phœniciculture: Tolga Reinvents the Desert’s Gold, Revitalizing Algeria’s Date Industry

BY: Dr. Hana Saada

Algiers, Algeria | November 26th, 2024 — In the heart of Algeria’s Saharan landscape, the Ziban region unveils one of the country’s most coveted treasures: dates. Among them, the Deglet Nour variety reigns supreme, recognized globally for its unique qualities. Despite occasional attempts to undermine its prestige through fabricated marketing campaigns, the Algerian Deglet Nour continues to dominate the world market, standing as a symbol of the country’s agricultural excellence.

In 2023, Algeria ranked as the fourth-largest producer of dates globally, yielding over one million tons annually. This figure represents more than one-tenth of the world’s total date production, which stands at around 10 million tons per year. Moreover, the nation’s date production has more than doubled over the past decade, underscoring the progress and potential of this vital agricultural sector.

The Rise of Phoeniciculture: 20 Million Date Palms and Growing

The success of Algeria’s date industry is no accident. It is the result of both nature’s generosity and strategic state intervention. Algerian dates, particularly Deglet Nour, are renowned for their distinct flavor, translucent golden color, and soft texture—attributes that have secured their place at the top of the global market. However, their continued success is also linked to the Algerian government’s focused efforts in the development of phoeniciculture. From financial support and storage solutions to partial transport subsidies and international promotional exhibitions, the state has ensured the sector’s growth both qualitatively and quantitatively.

With nearly 20 million date palms planted across 170,000 hectares in the southern regions of Algeria—including Biskra, El Oued, El Meghaier, Touggourt, Ghardaïa, El Meniaa, Adrar, Béchar, and Timimoun—the country boasts a significant and expanding presence in the global date market. Seventeen southern provinces are recognized as date producers, collectively contributing to Algeria’s growing export capacity. The country now exports dates to 75 nations, with plans to expand to 150 markets in the medium term. The goal is to increase export revenues to at least $250 million, with over 360 exporters currently involved in the trade. The authorities aim to triple this number, targeting 1,000 operators in the coming years.

Tolga: A Symbol of Heritage and Innovation

At the epicenter of this agricultural renaissance is Tolga, affectionately known as the “Queen of Deglet Nour.” In Tolga, a flourishing oasis of 800,000 date palms stretches across the vastness of the Sahara. Here, tradition meets innovation in a remarkable transformation that reflects both Algeria’s rich agricultural heritage and its forward-thinking approach to modern farming.

The phoeniciculture industry in Tolga is a shining example of how traditional practices are being harmoniously integrated with new, cutting-edge technologies. Farmers in the region are adopting modern techniques such as drip irrigation, semi-mechanical pollination, and the use of disease-resistant plant varieties. These advancements are not only improving the yield and quality of dates but also ensuring the sustainability and resilience of the sector in the face of evolving challenges. The recent introduction of limocide has further bolstered the sector’s phytosanitary measures, safeguarding date palm health and boosting overall productivity.

A Thriving Industry and the Rise of Agri-Tourism

The momentum behind Algeria’s phoeniciculture sector is now being showcased on the global stage. The 2nd International Date Exhibition, opening this week at the Palais des Expositions in Algiers (SAFEX), serves as a testament to the sector’s dynamism. With over 180 exhibitors from across the world, the event highlights the expanding influence of Algeria’s date industry, which remains the primary agricultural activity in the southern regions of the country.

The future of phoeniciculture in Algeria extends beyond mere production. The industry is beginning to explore new opportunities, including the burgeoning field of agri-tourism. As Algeria’s date-growing regions continue to modernize and diversify, there is a growing potential for the development of eco-tourism and agritourism initiatives that can attract global visitors. By leveraging its natural beauty, rich agricultural heritage, and sustainable practices, Algeria is positioning itself as a key player not only in the global date market but also in the emerging sector of agri-tourism.

In conclusion, Tolga’s revival as the “Queen of Deglet Nour” marks a new era for Algeria’s agricultural sector. Through the seamless integration of tradition and innovation, the country is not only redefining the global date market but also setting the stage for a more sustainable and diversified future. The transformation of Algeria’s phoeniciculture is a story of resilience, adaptation, and forward-thinking leadership—one that will resonate in the decades to come.

Translated from: https://www.horizons.dz/?p=192476

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