Algerian Radio
The new Draft Law on Agricultural Orientation and Food Sovereignty constitutes a new approach to reorganizing the agricultural sector, as highlighted this Tuesday in Algiers by the Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Fisheries, Mr. Yacine Oualid. He emphasized the anticipated role of this legislation in strengthening food security in Algeria.
In his address during a workshop dedicated to presenting and enriching the draft law, the Minister explained that this text will enable the organization and development of the sector while improving the support provided to various stakeholders. This aims to strengthen national food sovereignty, particularly by enhancing coordination between the stages of production, storage, processing, and distribution across all agricultural branches.
The meeting was held in implementation of the instructions of the President of the Republic of Algeria, Mr. Abdelmadjid Tebboune, calling for the preparation of a new draft law on Agricultural Orientation. This initiative aims to establish a comprehensive and definitive organization of the sector, based on a forward-looking vision co-authored by specialists and professionals.
The project aims, added Mr. Oualid, to preserve local genetic resources and develop national seed production to achieve independence in plant and animal genetic material. It also seeks to enhance the resilience of the agricultural system while focusing on the sustainable management of natural resources, particularly water, soil, and biodiversity, by integrating climate change adaptation as a structural principle in the national agricultural policy.
In the area of support, the text enshrines a reform based on prioritizing production and performance subsidies over input subsidies. This will enhance the effectiveness of public spending and ensure a better allocation of resources, added the sector's top official.
The draft law also includes effective regulation mechanisms to protect farmers during production surpluses, reduce post-harvest losses, and support the development of exports and processing through the expansion of contract farming. Furthermore, it introduces an integrated agricultural risk management system, encompassing agricultural insurance, climate hazard prevention tools, and mechanisms for income stabilization, all while streamlining administrative procedures and reducing required documentation.
Regarding the digital aspect, the text aims to accelerate the technological transition by deploying integrated agricultural information systems and establishing traceability devices, particularly for livestock and sensitive products, Mr. Oualid added. Other key pillars of the draft law include strengthening private investment by developing professional organizations and encouraging Public-Private Partnerships (PPP). This is accompanied by ensuring continuous training and localized agricultural extension for farmers and breeders, alongside introducing incentive mechanisms to attract youth and holders of innovative projects.
The Minister also indicated that the draft law did not address the issue of agricultural land, clarifying that a separate new draft law specifically for agricultural land is being prepared. This upcoming legislation aims to simplify the legal framework for agricultural lands, ensuring a responsible management of natural resources.
In turn, the President of the National Chamber of Agriculture, Mohamed Yazid Hambli, welcomed this new draft text, highlighting the immense importance of involving farmers and professionals in shaping the sector's future policies. He noted that such inclusion contributes to enhancing decision-making effectiveness and elevating performance levels.
As for the Secretary-General of the National Union of Algerian Farmers (UNPA), Abdellatif Dilmi, he emphasized the necessity of involving all relevant stakeholders in the formulation of agricultural policies. He praised the fact that the draft law provides a framework for dialogue and consultation, aiming to ensure that decisions truly serve the interests of farmers and professionals.
