Algeria Excludes France from Wheat Import Tender Amid Diplomatic Tensions
In a significant move reflecting deteriorating diplomatic relations, Algeria has excluded French companies from its latest wheat import tender. The decision, which prohibits suppliers from offering French-origin wheat, is a clear response to escalating tensions between Algeria and France, particularly following France's support for Morocco's stance on Western Sahara. This exclusion marks a continuation of a trend that began three years ago when France faced similar bans due to political disputes.
As one of the world's largest wheat importers, Algeria's recent tender, conducted by the National Grain Office, is estimated to have secured over 500,000 tonnes of wheat. Traditionally, France has been a major supplier, but the current geopolitical climate has shifted Algeria's focus towards other sources, notably Russian wheat from the Black Sea region. The Professional Office of Cereals did not provide an official explanation for the exclusion of French companies, but insiders suggest that the ongoing diplomatic disagreements, particularly regarding Western Sahara, are at the heart of this decision.
The implications of this move are substantial, as Algeria's wheat imports are crucial for its food security. The country is on the path to achieving self-sufficiency in durum wheat production, having produced 80% of its needs in the current season. Efforts are underway to expand cultivated areas, with significant investments from Qatar and Italy aimed at enhancing local production capabilities. In 2022, Algeria's import expenditures reached $2.7 billion, underscoring the importance of wheat as a staple commodity in the nation.
