Baladna Q.P.S.C signs an agreement with the Algerian Ministry of Agriculture
25 April, 2024
Baladna Q.P.S.C signs an agreement with the Algerian Ministry of Agriculture
and Rural Development for the world’s largest integrated dairy farming and
production project With a 3.5 billion USD investment
Herd to reach 270,000 with a production capacity of 1.7 billion liters of Milk
yearly
Baladna Q.P.S.C. signed today a Framework Agreement with the Algerian Ministry of Agriculture and Rural
Development whereby Qatar will develop the world’s largest integrated project aimed at producing powdered milk
in southern Algeria. The agreement that outlines a total investment of $3.5 billion was signed by Ms. Souad Assous,
Director General of Agricultural Investment and Land at the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, and Mr.
Mohamad Moutaz Al-Khayyat, Chairman of Baladna. The signing ceremony was attended by HE Mr. Youcef Cherfa,
Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development in Algeria; HE Mr. Laaziz Fayed Fayed, Minister of Finance in Algeria;
and His Excellency Mr. Abdelaziz Ali Al-Nama, the Qatari Ambassador to Algeria, among other dignitaries.
This venture, held 51% by Baladna and 49% by the Algerian State through the National Investment Fund, will develop
the world’s large scale vertically integrated dairy operation in Algeria. This groundbreaking project will cover 117,000
hectares and will be segregated into three hubs, each comprising of an arable farming operation, a dairy and beef
farming operation, and a powdered milk manufacturing facility.
Mr. Mohamad Moutaz Al-Khayyat, Chairman of Baladna, commented on this agreement, saying: "We are delighted
to formalize this partnership between Baladna and the Algerian Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development. This
strategic project is a cornerstone in fostering the growth of Algeria's agricultural sector, driving the nation toward
self-sufficiency , and bolstering food security—a critical global challenge that commands concerted efforts from
countries and international entities alike.
“Baladna has a proven track-record of rapid and significant achievements in Qatar, having attained self-sufficiency
within a mere 12 months, courtesy of employing foremost international technologies and leveraging a wealth of
expertise in the agriculture industry. It is with great anticipation that we aim to replicate this success in Algeria,
encapsulating these valuable experiences and technologies to implement exemplary, sustainable practices on an
international scale.”
Mr. Malcolm Jordan, CEO of Baladna added: “We are looking forward to working together with our Algerian partners
to build one of the world’s largest vertically integrated dairy companies. This strategic partnership not only aligns
with our ambitious growth objectives but also promises significant returns and long-term value for our
shareholders.”
The project aims to meet 50% of Algeria’s national demand for powdered milk, supplement the local market with
red meat, create 5,000 direct local jobs, and contribute to the growth of the national cattle stock. It will also leverage
modern technology and best management practices to enhance dairy farming efficiency, reduce production costs
through economies of scale, and improve control over the entire value chain.
The "Baladna" project for powdered milk production is part of the Algerian state's strategy to produce widely
consumed products in line with the national food security strategy.