June 15, 2012

Algeria anticipates 2012 grain production at 5.8 million tonnes

Due to weather conditions and incentives for farmers, Algeria expects its grain harvest for 2012 to reach 5.8 million tonnes or even exceed that level, its agriculture minister said on Thursday (June 14).

"We will reach around 58 million quintals (5.8 million tonnes). The figure may exceed 58 million quintals if there are no problems including fire usually caused by high temperatures," the minister, Rachid Benaissa, told state radio.

"Output will be good this year. We are expecting a good year for durum wheat," Benaissa said, without giving details.

The head of the country's state grain agency OAIC said earlier this month Algeria would import no more durum wheat or barley for the rest of 2012 due to a strong harvest and stock-building.

The minister said the harvest would be better than last year thanks to sufficient rainfall, good seeds and incentives for farmers, including interest-free loans.

Algeria's domestic grain harvest last year reached 4.2 million tonnes, pushing imports up to 7.42 million tonnes, the largest amount since the country became independent from France in 1962.