Algeria is strategically positioned to significantly contribute to the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by connecting the continent and developing regional logistics, experts confirmed Thursday. This will ensure reduced transportation costs, particularly maritime shipping expenses.
The experts made these remarks during the 3rd edition of the conference on maritime economy organized by the World Trade Center Algeria and Global Trade Support, focusing on the theme of “Maritime Economy in the Service of African Integration: Connectivity, Investments, and Sustainable Governance, to achieve the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).”
Ahmed Taibaoui, Director General of the World Trade Center Algeria, emphasized that “Algeria, with its 1,200 km of coastline, occupies a strategic position between the Mediterranean and sub-Saharan Africa, providing a major boost to connect the continent, develop regional logistics, and reduce the costs of intra-African trade.”
Taibaoui also highlighted Algeria’s efforts in recent years to develop its logistical and maritime infrastructure, particularly through the modernization of major ports and the creation of logistics zones linked to road and rail corridors, many of which are dedicated to serving Sahel countries. He added that Algeria has also adopted trade facilitation measures through the gradual digitization of port and customs procedures, enabling it to aspire to become a “maritime and logistical bridge between Europe and Africa.”
Abdelkrim Rzal, expert and former CEO of the Port Services Group (SERPORT), affirmed that “Algeria has risen to the challenge within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area by implementing integrated, resilient, and sustainable multimodal logistics facilities to facilitate African integration and support economic diversification and export promotion policies.”
He further stated that these projects will reduce logistical costs for trade from “20% to 10%” and allow Algeria to position itself as a “first-class logistical player.” These strategic investments underscore Algeria’s commitment to facilitating trade and strengthening its role in the African economy.
Algeria’s geographical advantage and ongoing infrastructure development are poised to make it a key player in the successful implementation of the AfCFTA, fostering greater economic integration and prosperity across the continent.
