An exceptional garlic harvest is underway in Teleghma, in Algeria’s Mila province, with production levels expected to ensure national self-sufficiency, according to local media reports. The city’s wholesale market is bustling as large volumes from surrounding farms enter circulation.
Fields across Teleghma are currently in full harvest, with teams of workers manually bundling garlic after tractors loosen the soil. Despite some mechanization in planting, harvesting remains largely labor-intensive, reflecting both limited access to machinery and the need for careful handling of the crop. Farmers describe the scale of cultivation as vast, with garlic fields stretching across hundreds of hectares.
This strong output marks a significant turnaround for Algeria’s garlic sector, which a decade ago struggled to compete with imported Chinese garlic. Producers faced uncertainty as imports flooded the market, discouraging investment. Since then, government measures—including high safeguard duties introduced in 2019 and an effective ban on imports—have supported domestic production. Official statements have repeatedly emphasized the importance of reducing reliance on foreign agricultural goods.
The results are visible in rising cultivation levels. From around 800 hectares planted in 2016, the area expanded significantly in the following years, reaching approximately 2,500 hectares in Mila alone by 2023. Production has climbed accordingly, with national output estimated at around 2 million quintals, surpassing previous seasons.
However, strong harvests also expose structural challenges. During peak periods, wholesale prices can drop sharply due to oversupply. In 2025, some farmers reported selling below production cost, prompting calls for export opportunities to stabilize revenues. Agro-economists note that intermediaries often capture a disproportionate share of profits, while farmers face rising input and labor costs.
To manage surplus production, cold storage infrastructure has expanded in recent years. Operators in Teleghma purchase large quantities of garlic, dry and process it, and store it for gradual release into the market—particularly during supply gaps between December and March. This system helps maintain price stability but also highlights the sector’s dependence on better organization and logistics.
Production costs remain a major concern. Farmers estimate expenses between 150 and 200 million centimes per hectare, driven by higher input prices and labor shortages. Many rely on sub-Saharan workers for harvesting, as local labor participation remains limited. Meanwhile, the use of uncertified seeds continues to affect yields and quality, despite the potential gains offered by improved agricultural techniques.
Looking ahead, the sustainability of Algeria’s garlic sector will depend on its ability to compete beyond protective measures. Experts suggest that improving quality standards, expanding storage capacity, and potentially developing a Protected Geographical Indication could strengthen Teleghma garlic’s market position and ensure long-term competitiveness.
Sami B. is the founder and editor of Algeria News Gate, an independent English-language platform covering Algeria’s political, economic, and business developments. Based in Europe, he reports on official announcements, economic trends, and international relations involving Algeria.