Arabfields, Algiers, Algeria — As Arab food security faces mounting threats from climate volatility, invasive pests, and surging population pressures, Algiers is poised to become the epicenter of agricultural innovation. From November 3 to 7, 2025, the Algerian capital will host the 14th Arab Congress on Plant Protection (ACPP 2025), a flagship event organized by the Arab Society for Plant Protection (ASPP). Under the banner “Plant Health for Sustainable Food Security,” the gathering will bring together hundreds of experts, researchers, and policymakers from across the Arab world and beyond, with a sharp focus on supercharging the fruits and vegetables sector, a lifeline for Algeria and the region.
Staged at Algeria’s National Higher Agronomic School (ENSA) in partnership with the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research and the Directorate of Plant Protection and Technical Control under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, the congress promises a packed agenda. Highlights include plenary sessions led by top Arab and international scientists, parallel workshops on bio-aggressors, sustainable pesticides, and biotechnology, plus hands-on field training. Over 500 delegates are expected from egypt, morocco, jordan, syria, and other Arab nations, alongside European and African contingents.
“This congress couldn’t come at a better time, post-harvest losses in fruits and vegetables hover around 30% across the Arab region due to diseases and pests,” says Prof. Ahmed Belkacem, ENSA director and co-organizer. A standout feature: a full-day agro-tourism excursion to iconic sites, from the orange groves of Mitidja to the Roman ruins of Tipaza, blending cultural immersion with live demos of integrated pest management.
Beyond theory, ACPP 2025 will showcase actionable solutions. Exhibition booths will feature agrochemical firms and startups unveiling innovations like AI-driven spray drones and disease-resistant crop varieties. “We’re turning knowledge into tangible gains to ramp up vegetable yields, 40% of Algeria’s agricultural exports,” a Directorate of Plant Protection spokesperson notes.
Algeria’s sun-drenched plains and vast arable land position it as a potential powerhouse in fruits and vegetables. Dates, citrus, tomatoes, and potatoes are crown jewels, yet the sector battles relentless foes: potato beetles, downy mildew, and other scourges that shave up to 25% off annual harvests. The congress aims to flip the script. Dedicated panels will dive into Integrated Pest Management (IPM)—an eco-friendly strategy that slashes chemical use while lifting yields.
Experts see a game-changer. “By forging regional partnerships, ACPP will harden fruit-and-veg supply chains against climate shocks,” states a pre-event FAO briefing, an indirect partner. In Algeria, where farming employs over 20% of the workforce, the ripple effect could create thousands of jobs and turbocharge exports to Europe and the Middle East—already topping $1 billion yearly.
The stakes stretch far beyond national borders. With the Arab world’s population eclipsing 400 million and demand for fresh produce soaring, plant protection equals sovereignty. Case studies on Tunisia’s fruit-fly battles and Egypt’s nematode wars will offer scalable lessons for the Maghreb.
Algerian hospitality will shine at the Tipaza International Conference Center, a stunning Mediterranean overlook. Organizers have extended late registration (until November 1) and discounted rates for Arab students and researchers. With a favorable exchange rate (1 USD ≈ 135 DZD), Algiers remains budget-friendly for mass turnout.
In sum, the 14th Arab Congress on Plant Protection is more than a scientific summit—it’s an investment in tomorrow’s dinner plates. By safeguarding crops, we secure fruits and vegetables, and ultimately, shared prosperity. Mark your calendars for Algiers, November 3-7, to plant the seeds of a greener, more bountiful agriculture. Details at acpp-aspp.com.
