Algeria will no longer be a major importer of powdered milk

Algeria is preparing to take a decisive step towards food independence – the country will no longer depend on imported milk powder. In the province of Adrar, they plan to build the world’s largest integrated dairy farm and milk powder production plant.

The solemn ceremony of signing the agreement between the Algerian government, the Qatari company Baladna Q.P.S.C. and the German industrial giant GEA took place in Algiers. GEA CEO Stephane Klebert said that the company will provide a full range of technological solutions for the construction of the farm and processing plant. The cost of the project is estimated at 140-170 million euros, and its completion is scheduled for the second half of 2025.

Construction will begin in early 2026, approximately 90 km from the administrative center of the province of Adrar. After launch, production will gradually increase, and the plant will reach full capacity by the end of 2027. It is expected to produce up to 100,000 tons of powdered milk annually, which will meet half of Algeria’s domestic demand.

Algeria is currently the third largest importer of powdered milk in the world. The new plant will be a key element of the country’s strategy to strengthen food security and reduce import dependence.

A joint venture, Baladna Algeria, has been established to implement the project, financed by the Algerian National Investment Fund and Baladna. The enterprise is expected to create more than 5,000 jobs and meet the highest international standards.

“We are not just building the world’s largest powdered milk plant, we are creating a model for the future that strengthens security and promotes economic growth,” stressed Stephane Klebert.

In turn, Baladna CEO Mohamed Moutas Al-Khayat emphasized the importance of the partnership with GEA: “This is an important milestone in accelerating the implementation of the project. We have brought together the best international experts to implement it to the highest standards.”

The project will be one of the largest investments in the dairy sector in Africa and will change Algeria’s position in the global dairy market.

Tags: Algeria