Cultmare, mussel and oyster farming in Algeria _From clean Mediterranean waters to the domestic market, Cultmare represents a model of sustainable aquaculture. As a pioneer in Algerian mussel and oyster farming, Cultmare is shaping the foundations of a local market while building the strength and strategy to reach international horizons in the near future.
Founded in 2008, Cultures Marines Spa, known as Cultmare, is among the pioneering Algerian companies specialized in mussel and oyster farming. Based in Kouali 3, Tipaza, the company operates a 36-hectare marine concession along with a 2,000 m² onshore site that hosts a production and packaging unit, purification plant and a quality control laboratory.
The company’s current production capacity reaches around 240 tons of Mediterranean mussels and 100 tons of oysters per year. Cultivation takes place in clean waters, far from pollution sources, and relies exclusively on natural marine phytoplankton. The products go through meticulous processes of sorting, purification, and packaging, with internal monitoring carried out by the company’s laboratory.
Market Challenges
While the domestic market for these products remains limited and sales modest, the company continues steadily along its chosen path. Its strategy prioritizes quality and compliance with standards over volume, giving Cultmare a distinct identity within a food landscape that is still emerging.
Beyond its commercial activity, Cultmare has developed strong ties with universities and research centers, welcoming students and trainees for hands-on experience in aquaculture. Since its early years, the company has positioned itself as a platform where economic activity meets scientific learning.
Looking ahead, Cultmare is preparing the launch of a farm-to-table restaurant project, envisioned as a unique experience where seafood goes straight from the sea to the plate. Although still in development, this initiative highlights the company’s ambition to diversify its activities and link marine production with innovative gastronomic and tourism ventures.
The story of Cultmare illustrates the journey of local enterprises seeking to harness the richness of the Mediterranean, navigating both challenges and opportunities. It also leaves the door open for future collaborations and partnerships, whether in distribution, research, or maritime tourism, contributing to Algeria’s role in the growing Mediterranean blue economy.
Cultmare, mussel, and oyster farming in Algeria