Blue ambition vs. reality: A SWOT-AHP analysis of Algeria’s marine fish farming sector

Abstract

As the fastest-growing food production sector, marine aquaculture is a pillar of the Mediterranean "Blue Economy", yet Algeria’s production currently reaches only 5% of its 100,000-ton national target. This study provides a critical diagnostic of the Algerian marine fish farming sector to identify the systemic bottlenecks hindering its growth. Using a multidimensional characterization of 10 active farms, the research employs a hybrid SWOT-AHP (Analytic Hierarchy Process) model to quantify internal strengths and weaknesses against external opportunities and threats. Results reveal a significant strategic imbalance, with Threats (0.60) and Weaknesses (0.21) dominating the sector's landscape. The most critical bottleneck identified is the lack of a structured market (20% global priority), followed by a high dependency on imported fry and feed. While the sector benefits from a highly educated workforce and favorable oceanographic conditions, these strengths are neutralized by high production costs and climate-related mortality risks. The study concludes that transitioning to a robust industrial sector requires urgent localization of the supply chain—specifically hatcheries and feed mills—and the establishment of professional associations to organize marketing circuits. These interventions are essential to bridge the "policy implementation gap" and ensure national food security.