Potatoes reach 160 dinars per kilo in Algeria
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Maghreb Emergent
Potatoes are currently selling for between 100 and 160 dinars per kilogram on Algerian markets where they remain available, against a ceiling of 90 dinars set for consumers. Producers in Aflou, in Laghouat wilaya, attribute the shortage to reduced cultivated areas, rising costs and weather conditions, according to Ennahar TV.
Potatoes are currently selling for between 100 and 160 dinars per kilogram on Algerian markets where they remain available, while the maximum price set by the authorities is 90 dinars. Producers in Aflou, in Laghouat wilaya, attribute the fall in supply to reduced cultivated areas, rising production costs and unfavourable weather conditions, in accounts broadcast by Ennahar TV.
Some farmers have halved the areas devoted to this crop: one went from 40 to 20 hectares and another from 20 to 10 hectares. One producer says the decline exceeds 50% on some farms. The high temperatures recorded during the summer also harmed crop development and yields.
Agricultural costs have also risen, particularly with the higher cost of land rental and fertilisers. One producer says some fertilisers previously bought through public channels saw two price increases during the same agricultural season.
The situation comes after the Algerian authorities launched daily monitoring of food prices on 7 November, while tomatoes had already reached 280 dinars per kilo in Algeria on 4 November.
