The euro is approaching 280 Algerian dinars on the black market, with rates reaching 279.5 dinars on April 5 at Square Port-Saïd, according to local media reports. The U.S. dollar is also rising, trading at around 238 dinars, reflecting renewed pressure in Algeria’s parallel currency market.
The latest increase follows a brief decline observed in mid-March, when the euro dropped to around 275 dinars before quickly rebounding. Since then, the parallel market has shown significant volatility, with both major foreign currencies fluctuating within a relatively high range. On April 2, the euro was trading at approximately 278 dinars, marking a gain of 1.5 dinars in just three days.
Currency dealers in Algiers report that demand for foreign currencies remains strong, particularly for the euro, which is widely used for travel and imports. The U.S. dollar has followed a similar trend, returning to 238 dinars on April 5 after a slight peak of 238.5 dinars the previous day. Despite these increases, the euro remains just below the symbolic 280-dinar threshold last seen during a previous surge in late 2025.
In contrast, official exchange rates set by the Bank of Algeria remain significantly lower. The euro is currently quoted at 153.41 dinars, while the U.S. dollar stands at 132.90 dinars. These official rates have seen only marginal daily increases, highlighting the persistent gap between Algeria’s formal banking system and the parallel market.
The divergence between official and black market rates continues to reflect structural imbalances in currency supply and demand. With no immediate policy shift announced, the parallel market is expected to remain volatile in the coming weeks, especially as seasonal demand and external economic factors influence exchange dynamics.
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.