Farming context: Algeria
Algeria fertilizer estimates use the selected crop, field, soil and product assumptions from the DZ agriculture dataset. Check local conditions before applying national averages.
| Agriculture share of GDP | ~12% |
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| Arable land | 8,400,000 ha |
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| Irrigated share | ~7% |
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| Main food crops | wheat, barley, potato, tomato |
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| Main export crops | dates, olive, citrus |
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Country context from the AfroTools agriculture dataset - planning reference, not agronomic advice. Confirm with local extension services.
Fertilizer Use in Algeria
Algeria is one of North Africa's largest fertilizer consumers, driven by its extensive wheat, barley, and potato cultivation across the northern Tell Atlas region. The country consumes over 400,000 tonnes of fertilizer annually, with the state-owned company ASMIDAL (now Fertial) serving as the primary domestic producer. Algeria manufactures ammonia and urea at large petrochemical complexes in Arzew and Annaba, leveraging its abundant natural gas reserves. Government policy has long prioritized agricultural self-sufficiency, and the Ministry of Agriculture coordinates fertilizer distribution through cooperatives and approved dealers. Despite domestic production capacity, Algeria still imports significant quantities of phosphate-based fertilizers and potash from Morocco and international markets.
Common Fertilizer Types
Urea (46-0-0) dominates the Algerian fertilizer market due to domestic production advantages and the country's focus on cereal crops. DAP (18-46-0) is the second most consumed fertilizer, widely applied as a basal dressing for wheat and barley. NPK compound fertilizers, particularly 15-15-15 and 20-10-10 blends, are gaining popularity among vegetable and fruit growers in the Mitidja Plain and other irrigated areas. Ammonium nitrate (33.5% N) is used in intensive cereal production, while TSP (triple superphosphate) is applied in phosphorus-deficient soils common in the steppe regions. Potassium chloride (MOP) is imported for use on date palms and citrus orchards in the southern oases.
Subsidy Programs & Access
Algeria maintains a comprehensive fertilizer subsidy program managed through the National Office of Agricultural Inputs (ONAB). The government subsidizes up to 50% of the cost of approved fertilizers for registered farmers, with higher rates for strategic crops like wheat and barley. Farmers access subsidized fertilizer through local agricultural cooperatives (CCLS) by presenting their farmer registration card and a cultivation plan approved by the local agricultural directorate. The e-Fellah digital platform, introduced in recent years, streamlines the application process and tracks distribution. Small-scale farmers in disadvantaged areas receive additional support through the National Fund for Agricultural Development (FNDA), which can cover up to 70% of input costs for certified farmers engaged in priority crop production.