Algiers date fair opens with 234 exhibitors

Algeria's fourth International Date Fair opened in Algiers on Wednesday with 234 exhibitors from Algeria and abroad at the Pins Maritimes Exhibition Palace.

Sid Ali Khaldi, minister of agriculture, presided over the opening ceremony. Algérie Eco reported that the fair is organised by the National Chamber of Agriculture (CNA) under the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Fisheries.

The minister said Algeria has large production and export capacity for dates. The country has about 20 million date palms and more than 1,200 varieties, with national output estimated at 12 million quintals.

The minister said the quality and variety of Algerian dates could help them reach more international markets.

He also said the sector needs better control of the whole value chain, including packing, processing and marketing, not only farm output.

The sector plans to rely more on scientific research and new technology.

Remote sensing, in vitro culture and modern pollination methods are among the tools planned. They are meant to raise yields, prevent diseases and pests, and protect the productive potential of palm groves.

The fair runs until 14 November under the theme 'Our dates, authenticity and sustainable economy'. Producers, processors, exporters, craftspeople, cooperatives, start-ups, laboratories and research centres are taking part.

Operators and specialists from Iraq, Oman, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt, Mauritania, Turkey and China also take part. The scientific programme includes conferences and workshops led by Algerian and foreign researchers and experts.

Talks will cover the use of drones to pollinate date palms, a technique tested in Oman, and remote sensing to spot diseases and pests early. Other sessions will look at liquid sugar made from dates and the role of rural women and agricultural chambers in oasis economies.

Meetings are also planned to share experience and find new partnership and sales opportunities in foreign markets.