The Algerian government has launched a nationwide interest-free financing programme aimed at expanding on-farm and cooperative-level cold storage infrastructure, a move expected to significantly reduce post-harvest losses and stabilise food supply chains across the country.

Under the new scheme, farmers, agribusiness cooperatives, and rural entrepreneurs can access zero-interest loans to construct and equip cold rooms, refrigerated warehouses, and controlled-atmosphere storage facilities. The initiative prioritises high-value and perishable commodities, including fruits, vegetables, dairy products, meat, and fish.

Agriculture officials say post-harvest losses in Algeria currently exceed 30% for some fresh produce categories, largely due to inadequate storage, fragmented logistics, and seasonal gluts. By expanding cold storage capacity at the farm gate, the government aims to smooth market supply, reduce price volatility, and improve farmer incomes.

The programme forms part of Algeria’s broader agricultural modernisation strategy, which focuses on food security, import substitution, and value-chain development. In recent years, the country has increased investment in irrigation, mechanisation, and seed systems to reduce reliance on imported food products.

Importantly, the loan facility includes technical assistance and compliance requirements, ensuring that new storage facilities meet food safety, hygiene, and energy-efficiency standards. Women-led farming enterprises and youth cooperatives are expected to receive preferential consideration, aligning the programme with inclusive rural development goals.

For North African agriculture more broadly, Algeria’s approach could serve as a model. Cold storage remains one of the most critical missing links in African food systems, and interest-free financing lowers a major barrier to adoption. If successfully implemented, the initiative could strengthen domestic supply chains, reduce food waste, and improve competitiveness in both local and export markets.