Algeria’s micro-import program is reserved for Algerian residents, but authorities have identified practices allegedly allowing some Algerians living abroad to access the scheme despite not meeting its eligibility requirements.
Introduced in 2025, the micro-import program was designed to bring small-scale “cabas” importing into the formal economy and provide a legal framework for young self-employed entrepreneurs. However, an official memo has highlighted cases involving Algerian expatriates who reportedly use proof of residence in Algeria to participate in the activity.
Who can access Algeria’s micro-import program?
Under Decree 25-170, micro-importation is reserved for self-employed individuals of Algerian nationality who are resident in Algeria.
Eligible individuals must also meet several other conditions. They must not be salaried employees and must not simultaneously carry out traditional commercial activities or practice a liberal profession.
The scheme was introduced to formalize small-scale importing activities that had previously operated outside the formal regulatory framework.
The decree also sets financial limits on the activity. Imports are capped at 1.8 million Algerian dinars per trip, with a maximum of two trips per month. Participants benefit from a reduced customs duty of 5% and a single flat-rate tax (IFU) of 0.5%.
How are some expatriates reportedly bypassing the rules?
According to the official memo, some young Algerians living abroad are reportedly taking advantage of their ownership of property in Algeria to obtain or use certificates showing residence in the country.
This documentation can make them appear to meet the residency requirement for the micro-import scheme, even though they actually live abroad.
The memo also identifies other characteristics of the reported practice. These individuals travel using vehicles registered outside Algeria and pay for their imported goods through bank accounts held abroad.
Such practices raise concerns because residency is a central eligibility condition of the micro-import regime.
BEA banking requirements
The regulatory framework also establishes specific banking requirements for micro-importers.
Those carrying out the activity must open a bank account with Banque Extérieure d’Algérie (BEA) and use exclusively the international payment card issued by the bank for transactions related to the activity.
The requirement is intended to provide greater traceability over payments and imports conducted under the scheme.
The reported use of foreign bank accounts and foreign-registered vehicles therefore highlights a potential gap between the formal eligibility requirements and how some participants may be operating in practice.
The authorities’ memo underscores that holding property or maintaining administrative ties in Algeria does not, by itself, make an Algerian living abroad eligible for the micro-import program.
For expatriates, the key issue is therefore not nationality alone but compliance with the scheme’s residency and other eligibility conditions.
Sami B. is the founder and editor of Algeria News Gate, an independent English-language platform covering Algeria’s political, economic, and business developments. Based in Europe, he reports on official announcements, economic trends, and international relations involving Algeria.