Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Amina Aouadi
Published on 2024-03-20 16:14:32
In the face of skyrocketing sardine prices in Algeria, reaching record levels between 1200 and 1500 DA/Kg, the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture has taken an unprecedented measure: importing sardines from Tunisia.
This initiative, described as “solidarity” by the authorities, aims to fill a portion of the national market deficit and offer consumers an affordable product, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan when demand is high.
Ten tons of Tunisian sardines have already been imported and distributed in several eastern provinces of the country, such as Constantine, Skikda, Sétif, and Batna. Other shipments are expected in the coming days to “create a balance and stabilize the prices” of this beloved fish.
The imported product is “fresh” and meets all conditions for storage and distribution. It is transported in refrigerated trucks and checked by veterinarians at the borders to ensure its quality and health safety, according to Abdelrahmane Hentour, director of monitoring activities for maritime fishing at the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture, in a statement to El Khabar newspaper.
Towards a sustainable regulation of the sardine market in Algeria?
The import operation, which will continue throughout the month of Ramadan, will be evaluated, and an extension until the month of April could be considered. The ultimate goal is to achieve better market regulation and long-term price stabilization of sardines.
According to ministry analysis, national sardine production experiences a seasonal decline between December and May. This situation contrasts with the period from May to November, where production reaches 7000 tons and prices stabilize around 400 to 500 DA/Kg.
The narrowness of the Algerian continental shelf compared to that of Tunisia is one of the factors explaining the price difference between the two countries. The high population density in Algeria, four times higher than that of Tunisia, also increases demand and price pressure.
The import of Tunisian sardines appears as a short-term palliative solution. The main challenge lies in implementing sustainable strategies to boost national production and ensure a regular supply to the market at affordable prices.
The ongoing experience could serve as a basis for reflection and the search for lasting solutions to ensure food security and meet the needs of Algerian consumers.
Read the original article(French) on Algerie 360
