Revolutionizing Agriculture: SARPA Emerges as Algeria’s Premier Agricultural Product Regulatory Company
BY: Hana Saada
ALGIERS- The Algerian agricultural sector is set to witness a significant transformation with the birth of the Algerian Society for the Regulation of Agricultural Products, known as “SARPA.” The establishment of SARPA comes as a result of the directives of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, who aims to regulate the supply of mass consumption products and direct surplus agricultural produce towards export markets.
The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Abdelhafid Henni, made the announcement during a coordination meeting with the Ministry of Commerce and Export Promotion, alongside officials from both sectors. Minister Henni emphasized that SARPA’s primary objective is to achieve balance in the national market by regulating agricultural production to meet the needs of the local market and, subsequently, explore export opportunities.
“In a first step, we will focus on meeting the demands of the local market, ensuring a stable supply of agricultural products for wide consumption, including vegetables and storable fruits. Once the domestic market needs are met, we will direct the surplus towards export, in coordination with the Ministry of Commerce,” stated Minister Henni.
SARPA aims to create a framework that enables both public and private agricultural companies to participate in the regulated market. To be eligible, these companies must adhere to the specified regulations and meet the required administrative, technical, and health standards. This approach encourages a competitive environment while ensuring that the quality and safety of agricultural products are maintained throughout the supply chain.
The establishment of SARPA is a direct response to President Tebboune’s call for a centralized body responsible for the purchase of consumer products directly from farmers. By streamlining the purchasing process, SARPA will not only provide stability to the agricultural sector but also enhance the livelihoods of farmers by offering them a reliable market for their produce.
Furthermore, SARPA’s mandate to regulate agricultural production will also address issues of food security within Algeria. By ensuring a consistent supply of essential food items, the company will play a crucial role in meeting the nutritional needs of the population. This strategic approach aligns with the government’s broader efforts to achieve food self-sufficiency and reduce dependency on imports.
The creation of SARPA reflects Algeria’s commitment to transforming its agricultural sector into a modern and sustainable industry. By focusing on regulation and market-oriented strategies, the government aims to increase productivity, improve the quality of agricultural products, and open up new avenues for export. This step will not only boost the country’s economy but also position Algeria as a key player in the regional and international agricultural trade.
