Algeria to explore fisheries collaboration with New Zealand

ALGERIA – Algeria is taking steps to enhance its fisheries sector through potential collaboration with New Zealand. 

The Ministry of Fisheries and Fisheries Production announced on its website that Algerian experts met with their New Zealand counterparts on November 13, to discuss areas of mutual interest and cooperation.

The Algerian government has set an ambitious target to double its fish production by 2030. 

Efforts to achieve this goal include planned investments aimed at increasing supply and partnerships with international stakeholders to improve local expertise.

According to information from the Algeria Press Service (APS), the meeting between the two nations covered three key areas: specialized training in fishing and aquaculture, sharing experiences to foster cooperative activities, and strategies for improved sector organization.

Scientific research collaboration was also a significant topic of discussion, focusing on developing sustainable fishing methods. 

This involves planned partnerships between Algeria’s National Centre for Research and Development in Fisheries and Aquaculture (CNRDPA) and New Zealand’s research institutions.

The Algerian government sees this potential collaboration as a way to tap into New Zealand’s extensive knowledge in fisheries and aquaculture. 

According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), New Zealand harvested 400,000 tonnes of fish in 2022, with aquaculture accounting for 75% of the production.

Algeria, in comparison, recorded a total fish catch of 125,500 tonnes in 2023, with less than 5% derived from aquaculture. The government plans to raise annual fish production to 200,000 tonnes by 2030.

This initiative shows Algeria’s intention to strengthen its fisheries sector through technical expertise and knowledge transfer. 

The proposed collaboration with New Zealand aims to address gaps in training, organization, and sustainable practices to meet the country’s production goals while ensuring environmental responsibility.

Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.