Algeria to import 30,000 US cattle for $3.5 bn Baladna dairy project

Algerian Interior Minister Saïd Sayoud met with Ali Al‑Ali, president of the Baladna Algeria board, to review the progress of the $3.5 bn agro‑industrial dairy project. The discussion focused on logistical challenges, especially the planned air‑lift of 30,000 cattle from nine U.S. states between November 2026 and August 2027. The government pledged full logistical support, committing its Transport Ministry to coordinate the 109‑flight operation that will bring the livestock to the Sahara region.

Both parties highlighted the strong Algeria‑Qatar partnership underpinning the venture, which also includes civil‑engineering works, a concrete plant, housing infrastructure and the first barley harvest on 300 ha in Tamest, Adrar. Agriculture Minister Yacine Oualid was present at the signing ceremony that formalised the cattle‑import phase.