Algeria's dairy imports decline in early 2026, Baladna project aims for self-sufficiency

This decline was particularly pronounced in skimmed milk powder, which fell by 49% in imported volumes, and processed products like cheeses, which dropped by 53%. In contrast, whole milk powder imports increased by 8% during the same period, now accounting for nearly half of the country's total dairy expenditure. Uruguay remains Algeria's primary partner for whole milk powder, holding 42% of the market share by volume, followed by New Zealand 34% and Argentina 22%.

Across all dairy products, the European Union leads as a supplier with 37%, followed by Uruguay 25%, New Zealand 19%, and Argentina 13%. For Uruguay's dairy industry, Algerian demand for whole milk powder is crucial, contributing $249 million to its exports, a 6% increase, and representing 80% of its international volumes. This targeted reduction in imports aligns with Algeria's strategic goal of reducing its import bill and boosting local production.

The integrated "Baladna" mega-project in Adrar is central to this strategy, aiming for an annual national production of 100,000 tons of milk powder to achieve self-sufficiency and create around 5,000 jobs, thereby reducing reliance on international markets.