Since July 2021, private enterprises in Algeria have had the opportunity to enter the transportation sector. However, there have been only a few projects submitted. According to Algerian media outlet Ennahar, Algeria has received just two applications from private investors to establish an airline, a situation that does not sit well with Algerian Prime Minister Aïmene Benabderrahmane.
In recent times, the country has been striving to enhance its connectivity with the world, whether by sea or air. While the Algerian transportation sector has been dominated by national airlines and maritime companies, in 2022, the Minister of Transport indicated preliminary approval for around ten companies to create new local airlines and maritime enterprises.
Algeria had hoped for more projects, but since then, many potential candidates have withdrawn their proposals. Addressing the Assembly during the debate on the “Government’s General Policy Statement,” Prime Minister Aïmene Benabderrahmane affirmed that “investment in the aviation and maritime transport sector is open to private entities, and there are no barriers in this regard.”
According to Ennahar, the Prime Minister also expressed “regret over the lack of interest” from private economic operators in investing in the aviation and maritime transport sector.