Algiers, November 11, 2025 – Algeria is poised to inaugurate its first bank branch in France on November 20th. This landmark event marks the first official Algerian banking presence on French soil. The Banque Extérieure d’Algérie (BEA) will be the first Algerian bank to operate in the European country.
This initiative aligns with Algeria’s broader strategy of expanding its financial footprint internationally. The goal is to empower its public banks to penetrate European and African markets, especially in countries with significant Algerian diaspora populations. This move is expected to bolster the presence of national institutions abroad and facilitate remittances and investments.
A Financial Bridge
Abdelwahab Yacoubi, a representative for the Algerian community in France, hailed the bank’s opening as “long-awaited news.” He emphasized that it will serve as a “financial and economic bridge connecting Algeria with its citizens in France, fostering trust and opportunities for collaboration and investment between the two sides.”
Initial Launch and Future Expansion
The initial phase will see the opening of three main branches in Paris (Courcelles), Saint-Denis, and Marseille (Paradis). Plans are underway to establish additional branches in other French cities with large Algerian communities. These branches will offer advanced banking services and streamline financial and investment transactions.
Completing Algeria’s External Market Presence
This project, culminating after nearly three years of preparation, unfolds amidst a renewed drive to strengthen the influence of Algerian financial institutions abroad. Algeria previously inaugurated the Algerian-Senegalese Bank in Dakar and secured official accreditation for the Algerian Union Bank in Mauritania. These efforts are part of a comprehensive vision to connect the Algerian diaspora with national banking services and enhance Algeria’s financial role in the region.
