This paper aims to investigate the place of innovation within the strategic sectors of agriculture in Algeria. In the framework of a policy of agriculture modernization targeting an increased production, import substitution, and increased export volumes, this research is concerned with the innovation by durum wheat and potato producers. To this end, we conducted a survey covering 120 farmers of high production areas. For both sectors,semi-structured interview have been performed with the local actors of development and agricultural support. The results show that the level of innovation in conventional farming techniques is appreciable, e.g., adoption of crop rotation, introduction of new plant protection products, weed-killers and fertilizers for durum wheat and the adoption of new varieties, the introduction of new machines and sowing techniques for potato growers. However, innovations in sustainable techniques are non-existent. In addition, organizational and marketing innovations are observed only among potato producers. Overall, they are financially self-sufficient, younger, more educated and exploit larger areas than durum producers, which seem to explain their propensity to innovate over durum wheat producers.