Algeria is preparing to expand its commercial blacklist to include individuals and entities involved in fraud and financial crimes, as part of new reforms targeting import monitoring and trade transparency. Local media reported that the measures form part of broader legal amendments aligned with international standards.
The proposed reform, cited by Echorouk, involves amending Law No. 04-08 of August 14, 2004, which governs the conditions for engaging in commercial activities. The update is designed to strengthen Algeria’s regulatory framework in line with recommendations from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), a global body focused on combating money laundering and terrorist financing.
According to the draft law, authorities plan to broaden the scope of offenses that can lead to a ban from commercial activity. The expanded blacklist will primarily target individuals implicated in tax fraud and money laundering, as well as those involved in the financing of terrorism or the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. These measures would result in a full prohibition from conducting business activities, including import operations, for those found guilty of such offenses.
The reform is structured around three key objectives: enhancing transparency, widening oversight mechanisms, and simplifying administrative procedures to support investment. Officials aim to create a more secure and compliant business environment while maintaining efficiency for legitimate operators.
Additional provisions in the draft law introduce stricter compliance requirements. Article 4 bis would oblige businesses to update their commercial registry information within one month of any change to their legal or operational status. Meanwhile, amendments to Article 37 propose financial penalties for non-compliance, with fines ranging from 10,000 to 500,000 dinars for individuals and from 300,000 to 700,000 dinars for legal entities.
The reform reflects Algeria’s ongoing efforts to modernize its economic governance and reinforce trust in commercial transactions. By tightening controls and aligning with global standards, authorities aim to reduce illicit financial flows while improving the overall transparency of the import sector.
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.