The recovery of trade relations and the push for economic diversification have positioned Algeria as a priority destination. Experts recommend specialized advice and emphasize the role of financial support in ensuring success in North Africa.
La Barcelona Chamber of Commerce has hosted a business conference focused on business opportunities in Algeria, an increasingly attractive market for Spanish companies. The event, organized in conjunction with ASCAME and the Algerian-Spanish Business Forum (F2AE), had the objective of explaining how to successfully enter a country with great economic potential, although also demanding for foreign companies.
A nearby market with great diversification potential
Thanks to its geographical proximity and its strategic logistical position in the Summer, Algeria maintains smooth trade relations with Catalonia and the set of SpainThe country's need to diversify its economy beyond hydrocarbons has opened new opportunities for companies in various sectors. During the event, experts and institutional representatives analyzed the current state of the Algerian market and the country's future prospects.
Among the distinguished participants who attended Cristina Olazabal, economic and commercial advisor of Spain en Algeria; Djamel Habtiche, economic advisor of the Embassy of Algeria en Spain; is Ismael Martín, representative in Spain of the Algerian-Spanish Business Forum.
Snapshot of the business fabric and key sectors
To understand the magnitude of current trade relations and the direction of growth, the conference presented key data for foreign investment that Algerian government seeks to attract:
| Indicator / Strategic Sector | Data and Areas of Opportunity |
|---|---|
| Current business presence | Currently, some 500 Catalan companies already operate in Algeria and many are looking to expand their activity there. |
| Direct business opportunities | Energy, construction, agriculture, logistics and infrastructure. |
| New needs of the country | Modernization of its economy, foreign investment, technology, and new trading partners. |
Financing, expert advice and connectivity in the Maghreb
Successful implementation in the Maghreb market requires a solid support network. Ismael Martín He emphasized the importance of having support on the ground, strongly recommending strategic support at the logistical, financial and legal levels, as well as the essential search for a local partner to be able to develop any productive activity in the country with the necessary guarantees.
In the banking sector, key issues such as access to financing were addressed. Magreb. Eduardo Piedrafita, branch manager of Aresbank en BarcelonaHe contextualized the region's appeal by noting that the relative stability of these countries compared to other parts of the world facilitates a growing trend in trade. He also emphasized that the geographical proximity of nations such as Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Morocco, and Egypt is a key factor for logistical and economic operations.
Regarding direct tools for businesses, Piedrafita detailed that Aresbank It is fostering bilateral relations to offer Spanish exporters the opportunity to finance their transactions through as many Algerian local banks as possible. The executive added that the institution is actively working to further expand its already extensive correspondent banking network in the country.
Success stories and consolidation strategies
The day ended with a round table discussion in which several companies already working in Algeria They shared their experiences and explained both the opportunities and the real difficulties of doing business in the country. In this context, Catalonia wants to position itself as one of its most important economic allies in the Summerfacilitating the development of these expansion projects.
Key points and frequently asked questions about Opportunities in Algeria
Why is it essential to find a local partner to operate in Algeria?
As recommended by F2AE experts, for companies wanting to set up and develop a productive activity, it is vital to have a local partner, as well as surround themselves with legal advisors, tax advisors and specialized consultants on the ground.
What payment and financing guarantees are available to Spanish exporters?
Specialized entities such as Aresbank They are constantly expanding their extensive correspondent network and fostering bilateral relationships with Algerian banks in order to cover business transactions with multiple local bank guarantees.
Which sectors currently offer the greatest business opportunities?
The country is actively seeking to modernize its economy to reduce its dependence on hydrocarbons, which creates great opportunities in strategic areas such as energy, construction, agriculture, logistics, technology, and infrastructure.
