Algeria is set to introduce a new legal framework for e-commerce, a strategic move aimed at digitising the national economy, fostering youth entrepreneurship, and enhancing consumer protection. The initiative is spearheaded by the Ministry of Internal Trade and National Market Regulation and was announced during the country’s inaugural National Employment Conference.
Speaking at the event, Minister Amel Abdellatif underscored the critical role of e-commerce as one of Algeria’s most promising sectors, especially for young entrepreneurs. She highlighted that the digital economy provides a fertile environment for innovation, initiative, and value creation, attracting a rapidly growing number of online merchants and service providers.
Tapping a $1.9 Billion Market
The need for a structured regulatory environment has become urgent as Algeria’s e-commerce market experiences explosive growth. According to government and UNCTAD estimates, the sector’s turnover reached $1.9 billion in 2023, a figure that has likely already been surpassed.
With over 42 million parcels delivered annually, the sheer volume of online trade has prompted the ministry to develop dedicated e-commerce legislation. The primary objective is to prevent the emergence of an unregulated virtual marketplace while supporting the sector’s continued expansion.
Balancing Growth with Governance
The proposed framework is designed to strike a crucial balance between entrepreneurial freedom and robust consumer protection. By reinforcing trust, transparency, and accountability in online transactions, the government aims to build a more resilient and reliable digital market.
This new legislation will also integrate young entrepreneurs into the formal digital economy through modern regulatory and operational mechanisms. The initiative aligns with broader national policies focused on digitisation, financial inclusion, and the promotion of secure electronic payments, which are being developed in partnership with banking institutions.
A Digital-First Approach to Regulation
In addition to the new legal framework, the ministry is accelerating the digitisation of its own administrative services. This includes simplifying business registration and licensing procedures through dedicated online platforms, making it easier for new ventures to launch and operate formally.
The long-term vision is to formalise informal online economic activity, combat speculation, and construct a cohesive digital ecosystem. This ecosystem is expected to contribute sustainable value and create new employment opportunities, further strengthening Algeria’s national economy.
About the Ministry of Internal Trade and National Market Regulation
The Ministry of Internal Trade and National Market Regulation is the Algerian government body responsible for overseeing and developing the country’s commercial sectors. Its mandate includes creating policies that promote fair trade, protect consumer rights, and modernise the national market. The ministry plays a key role in driving Algeria’s economic digitisation strategy, with a focus on integrating new technologies and formalising emerging sectors like e-commerce.
Source: MEA TechWatch
