Lancement d’une opération nationale de contrôle des activités médicales et paramédicales exercées par des non-professionnels
National Initiative to Control Non-Professional Medical Activities in Algeria
On Thursday, the Ministry of Interior Trade and National Market Regulation launched a nationwide operation to monitor medical and paramedical activities conducted by non-professionals. This initiative particularly targets hair salons, beauty institutes, and body care facilities, as well as the illegal importation of food products.
According to a statement made to the APS by the minister’s communication advisor, M. Amine Amara, this inspection operation aligns with directives from Minister Tayeb Zitouni aimed at reinforcing commercial activity controls to safeguard public health and consumer safety. The operation has yielded significant results, uncovering numerous violations across the sector.
During these inspections, authorities discovered unqualified individuals engaged in medical and paramedical treatments within beauty salons and skincare centers. Additionally, substantial quantities of illegally imported food products from unknown origins and expired food items were seized by various regional trade departments, which pose direct health risks to consumers.
Mustapha Zebdi, president of the Consumer Protection Association (APOCE), praised this initiative, acknowledging its importance in addressing harmful practices affecting consumer health. He pointed out the dangers associated with aesthetic medical treatments, such as laser procedures, Botox, and mesotherapy, when performed by non-professionals. He further noted that selling eyewear, including sunglasses, must be conducted by specialists with proper medical training due to potential risks.
Zebdi also underscored the serious risks involved in consuming illegally imported food items, mainly because these products lack essential information regarding their production conditions and authenticity. Some of these foods may contain harmful substances or prohibited components, such as alcohol, pork meat, or fats, posing health hazards to consumers.
The National Council of Dentists (CNODM) expressed support for the Ministry of Interior’s decisions concerning the regulation of medical and paramedical practices by non-professionals, which includes unauthorized dental procedures. The Council emphasized that reorganizing these activities in collaboration with relevant sectors and establishing clear legal regulations are crucial steps toward enhancing consumer protection and restoring state confidence in its institutions.
On Tuesday, Minister Zitouni chaired a coordination meeting focused on trade control, where he stressed the need to expand oversight to encompass medical and paramedical activities performed by non-professionals, as well as establishments such as hair salons and beauty institutes. He called for a reorganization of these activities in conjunction with relevant sectors to better protect consumers.
This nationwide control initiative reflects a broader commitment by Algerian authorities to ensure that all commercial activities, particularly those affecting health and safety, are managed by qualified professionals and comply with established regulations. The focus on non-professional practices in medical and paramedical fields highlights a significant public health concern, which, if left unaddressed, can lead to serious health implications for consumers.
In summary, the operation signifies a proactive approach by Algerian authorities to combat illegal practices in both the medical and commercial landscapes, ensuring that consumer safety and health are prioritized. It aligns with ongoing efforts to strengthen the regulatory framework governing commercial activities, especially those directly impacting public health. By advocating for a more organized approach and stricter enforcement, Algeria aims to foster a market where consumers can trust the professionalism and safety of the services they receive.
