Algeria is advancing a new legal framework for e-commerce as part of a broader strategy to digitise the national economy, encourage youth entrepreneurship, and strengthen consumer protection. The initiative is being led by the Ministry of Internal Trade and National Market Regulation and was highlighted during the inaugural National Employment Conference.
Speaking at the event, Minister Amel Abdellatif emphasised the growing importance of e-commerce as one of Algeria’s most opportunity-rich sectors, particularly for young entrepreneurs. She noted that the digital economy offers fertile ground for innovation, initiative, and value creation, attracting a rapidly expanding base of online sellers and service providers.
Government and UNCTAD estimates show that Algeria’s e-commerce turnover reached $1.9 billion in 2023, a figure believed to have already been exceeded. With more than 42 million parcels delivered annually, the rapid expansion of online trade has intensified the need for a structured and transparent regulatory environment.
To address this, the ministry is preparing dedicated e-commerce legislation aimed at preventing the emergence of an unregulated virtual marketplace. The proposed framework seeks to support sector growth while integrating young entrepreneurs into the formal digital economy through modern regulatory and operational mechanisms.
The new approach aims to balance entrepreneurial freedom with consumer protection, reinforcing trust, transparency, and accountability in online transactions. It also aligns with broader market regulation policies focused on digitisation, financial inclusion, and secure electronic payments, developed in collaboration with banking institutions.
Alongside regulatory reform, the ministry is accelerating the digitisation of its administrative services, simplifying business registration and licensing processes through online platforms. The long-term objective is to formalise informal online activity, combat speculation, and build a coherent digital ecosystem that contributes sustainable value and employment to the national economy.
