Given the intricacy of the Algerian bureaucracy, language barriers, and the difficulty securing meetings with government officials, U.S. exporters need to form partnerships with qualified and reputable Algerian agents and distributors who understand the business culture, maintain reliable government contacts, and possess industry expertise.  The U.S. Commercial Service in Algeria (CS Algeria) provides matchmaking services for U.S. exporters to identify Algerian partners.  It can also give industry-specific guidance to firms interested in the Algerian market.  Since English is not widely spoken, CS Algeria can refer U.S. exporters to local translators.  U.S. firms are encouraged to consult with local attorneys or advisors regarding technical and legal matters.  

Quick sales are an anomaly in Algeria.  Companies must invest significant time, often years, to persuade Algerian decision-makers to adopt new solutions, particularly those involving new technologies or concepts.  U.S. firms should, therefore, consider the Algerian market solely from a long-term perspective.  The government favors companies that contribute to long-term employment development and technology transfer.

U.S. firms working directly with Algerian partners have reported more success than those managing their business development efforts through a representative in a neighboring country.  Many have stated that access to opportunities, especially government-related projects, dramatically increases when managed directly from the United States and not via a local partner in France, Morocco, or the United Arab Emirates.  Companies should be aware that the Algerian government limits access to specific sites and offices if a company representative is from Morocco.  Algeria severed diplomatic ties with Morocco in August 2021 and closed its airspace to Moroccan commercial and military flights in September 2021, including direct flights between Algiers and Casablanca.