Finance Minister Confirms No Fuel Price Increase in 2027 Bill

Algeria's Finance Minister has clarified that the 2027 Finance Bill does not contain any provisions for an increase in fuel prices. The Minister emphasized that the general orientation of the bill is centered on preserving citizens' purchasing power, directly addressing public concerns regarding Article 218 of the draft legislation.

The Minister expressed surprise at interpretations of Article 218, which provides for a possibility of revision for concerned parties. He explained that this provision does not signify a programmed increase in fuel prices, illustrating that if the government had planned a one-dinar per liter hike, it would have been integrated into the bill for discussion and impact assessment. The mechanisms for revision can also apply to other domains, including industrial constraints faced by companies, potentially leading to either increases or decreases depending on the situation.

Reaffirming the Algerian state's commitment to its social character, the Minister underscored that protecting purchasing power is a fundamental principle, consistent with presidential directives. He also noted that any potential revisions must consider social consequences and public reaction. Separately, the Finance and Budget Committee of the National People's Assembly has proposed an amendment to Article 218, aiming to subject any future revisions of gasoline and diesel prices to prior parliamentary approval within the finance law, an initiative designed to enhance parliamentary oversight.