Algiers, November 28, 2025 – A new executive decree regulating the transfer of shares in companies operating within strategic sectors to foreign entities has been published. The decree mandates prior authorization for such transactions.
Executive Decree 25-304, signed by the Prime Minister on November 16th, stipulates that any transfer of shares or equity stakes in a company operating in a strategic sector under Algerian law, to foreign individuals or entities, or to Algerian companies with foreign capital, is subject to mandatory prior authorization from the relevant ministry overseeing the company’s sector.
For state-owned enterprises, any request for prior authorization requires the prior approval of the State Shareholding Council.
The decree further outlines a consultation process. Before a decision can be made on the authorization request, the relevant ministry must seek the opinion of the Ministries of National Defense, Foreign Affairs, Interior, Justice, Finance, Internal Trade, and Health, as well as the Bank of Algeria.
These ministries and the Bank of Algeria are required to provide a clear opinion within 30 days from the date of receiving the request. The ministry responsible for reviewing the application must respond to the request within a maximum of 60 days from the date of receipt of the deposit slip.
The application will be automatically rejected if there are indications of situations that could undermine public order, security, or health.
