• New platform requires importers to submit forward purchase plans

• Move aims to cut import bill and better match domestic demand

• Reform supports push to boost local production and non-oil exports

Algeria has introduced a new digital system to strengthen oversight of its external trade flows and better track import activity. The Ministry of Foreign Trade and Export Promotion has opened an online platform, available from March 22 to April 30, for companies engaged in import-for-resale operations to submit their projected purchasing plans.

The system is intended to centralize import intentions from economic operators—classified under activity No. 4—in order to better align supply with domestic demand while limiting the outflow of foreign currency. Companies are required to file their forecasts through the official portal (import.mcepe.gov.dz), in line with broader efforts to modernize the country’s trade governance.

The rollout comes as Algeria continues to push for tighter control over its import bill. After bringing goods imports down to below $45 billion in recent years—from more than $58 billion in 2014—the government is now relying on more precise digital data to avoid shortages while protecting local industries.

The new mechanism is also tied to the planned launch of a national digital registry of locally produced goods and services, unveiled last week. The goal is twofold: identify areas where imports can be replaced by domestic production and support the growth of non-hydrocarbon exports, which authorities aim to raise to $29 billion by 2030.

By expanding the use of digital tools, customs and trade authorities are seeking to curb informal activity and improve traceability of financial flows. At the same time, the system is expected to offer businesses a more streamlined and transparent process for securing compliance certificates.

Samia Njoya