Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune announced significant measures to address the soaring prices of sheep as the country prepares for Aïd al-Adha 2025. During the Council of Ministers meeting held on March 9, 2025, Tebboune instructed officials to explore importing up to one million sheep to stabilize prices and meet domestic demand for the upcoming religious festival.
"This decision is primarily aimed at alleviating economic pressures on families who face soaring sheep prices due to declining livestock numbers," stated the government’s communiqué released after the meeting.
Over the past several years, Algerians have experienced steep price increases for sheep, primarily attributed to adverse environmental factors such as drought and insufficient feed. These conditions have diminished the national livestock population, making it difficult for many families to afford the traditional sacrificial sheep.
To combat this issue, the Algerian government is not only focusing on importing sheep but also exploring long-term reforms aimed at revitalizing the livestock sector. These reforms include strengthening agricultural infrastructure, modernizing livestock farming practices, and providing financial aid to local breeders.
President Tebboune's decision is seen as urgent. Reports indicate the possibility of meat shortages during the Aïd al-Adha period, which could lead to significant complications for many Algerian families. "The state will oversee the importation process, coordinating with specialized institutions and working with public cooperatives across all regions to facilitate the sale and distribution of sheep," he directed.
The government hopes this approach will mitigate economic pressures and enable families to uphold their traditional practices during the holy period.
Meanwhile, across the border, Morocco is grappling with its own challenges related to the Aïd al-Adha. King Mohammed VI recently urged citizens to refrain from performing the sacrifice this year, citing significant economic and climatic difficulties affecting livestock availability. The Moroccan king emphasized the need to allow citizens to fulfill their religious obligations, even as many families struggle, stating, "The current situation makes it difficult for numerous families, especially those with modest incomes, to perform the ritual legally. Although the sacrifice is confirmed as Sunnah, it should not be at the expense of the citizens’ well-being."
This divergence between Algerian and Moroccan policies highlights the varying strategies each nation is employing to manage the challenges presented by Aïd al-Adha rituals amid rising costs and limited resources. Algeria's focus on importing livestock aims to stabilize local markets and prevent price surges, whereas Morocco's temporary suspension of the sacrificial rite seeks to alleviate pressures on limited resources.
The symbolism of Aïd al-Adha runs deep within both nations. It is more than just religious observance; it reflects broader economic struggles and the challenge of maintaining community traditions during difficult times. Regardless of differing strategies, both governments are acknowledging the importance of ensuring citizens can participate meaningfully in their religious customs.
According to Mustapha Zebdi, president of the Algerian Association for Consumer Protection (Apoce), the consideration for livestock importation is commendable. He noted, "We welcome the government’s move to prevent the potential record price hikes of sheep." The experience during previous years has highlighted the risks posed by supply shortages pushing prices beyond what many families can afford around the holy festival.
The decision to import livestock for Aïd al-Adha 2025 is not unprecedented for Algeria. Similar measures have been put forth during periods of extensive market demand, though critics often question the long-term sustainability of such policies. With this year presenting already significant challenges, Algeria's government faces scrutiny over its ability to effectively execute the import initiative to guarantee sufficient supplies.
The approach involving importation might provide some immediate relief to Algerians but raises concerns over the sustainability and viability of domestic livestock farming. Ensuring the health and productivity of Algeria’s agricultural sector is now more important than ever as the nation navigates these turbulent economic waters.
With Aïd al-Adha approaching, how both nations tackle these unique challenges not only determines the immediate impact on families during this significant period but also sets the stage for the future of livestock farming and consumption patterns throughout North Africa.