la majorité des projets d’investissement sont entrés en phase de réalisation effective
Summary of Investment Trends and Policies in Algeria
On Wednesday, Omar Rekkache, the Director General of the Algerian Investment Promotion Agency (AAPI), disclosed promising trends in the country’s investment sector during an interview with the national radio. Currently, AAPI is overseeing nearly 14,000 investment projects, with the majority transitioning into effective implementation stages.
Rekkache emphasized that since the new operational framework of the agency was established, the registered projects have significantly increased. Importantly, he noted that the progression from registration to actual on-ground execution is critical. Recent data from customs indicates that machinery and equipment are being imported as inputs for the registered projects, signaling a shift towards tangible results in the investment landscape.
This advancement reflects ongoing efforts to bolster the institutional framework governing investments in Algeria, aligned with a coherent vision and reform strategy designed to enhance the investment climate. Key focus areas include promoting public life integrity within the investment sector by reinforcing transparency and advancing digitalization initiatives, as highlighted by Rekkache.
In a bid to showcase these tangible outcomes, AAPI has arranged site visits next week to various projects that have reached substantial development stages, having secured necessary licenses and approvals. Among the anticipated initiatives is the launch of a significant paper production plant operated by "Général Emballage" in Naâma. Scheduled for inauguration on the 24th of this month, this facility is touted to be the largest paper processing plant in Africa.
Rekkache’s remarks also addressed AAPI’s ambition to establish specialized industrial and investment hubs across several regions, aiming to revive dormant industrial activities. For instance, discussions are underway for creating a specialized industrial zone focusing on leather and footwear in Médéa. This follows the establishment of a similar industrial space in Bordj Bou Arreridj designated for the production of school supplies.
Plans are also in motion for the Blida and Ain Defla regions, where preparatory efforts are being made to launch an industrial hub specifically aimed at agro-food processing. This initiative has garnered positive reactions from stakeholders and investors interested in the sector.
Further, Rekkache discussed enhancements concerning AAPI’s digital platform dedicated to industrial land allotments. Improvements in this online system have significantly uplifted the business climate, making land grant processes smoother and more efficient, effectively addressing previous operational challenges observed during the pilot phase.
The AAPI is keen on steering industrial land towards productive activities that contribute to Algeria’s national economy. In this context, Rekkache noted that approximately twenty concession grants had been revoked due to insufficient project preparation by applicants, showcasing the agency’s commitment to ensuring quality and feasibility in proposed investment initiatives.
In summary, the current dynamics within the Algerian investment climate illustrate a proactive governmental approach aimed at fostering a robust and transparent economic environment. The measures taken by the AAPI, from project implementation to enhancing land availability through digital means, reveal a cohesive strategy to revitalize investment across the country, thereby laying a foundation for sustainable economic growth.
