Shipping to and from Algeria
Limark is your trusted partner for shipping to and from Algeria, accelerating growth and integration into global markets through expert logistics solutions. Leveraging our deep understanding of Algeria’s unique trade landscape and regulatory environment, we offer comprehensive services tailored to your specific shipping to and from Algeria needs.
Whether you’re exporting Algeria’s rich hydrocarbon resources, agricultural products, or manufactured goods, or importing essential equipment and materials, our extensive network and strategic partnerships ensure seamless and efficient shipping to and from Algeria across borders.
Import regulations
Importing goods to Algeria requires navigating specific procedures and documentation. Here’s a breakdown of the essential requirements:
Product Categories Requiring Import Licenses/Permits
Food and Agricultural Products
- All food and agricultural products, including meat, dairy, fish, grains, fruits, and vegetables, require an import license from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD).
- Specific licenses are required for certain products like sugar, wheat, and powdered milk.
- Phytosanitary certificates are mandatory for plant and plant-based products.
- Health certificates are required for animal and animal-based products.
Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices
- The Ministry of Health, Population, and Hospital Reform regulates the import of pharmaceuticals and medical devices.
- A Marketing Authorization (AMM) from the National Agency for Pharmaceutical Products (ANPP) is required for all medicines.
- Medical devices must be registered with the ANPP and comply with relevant EU standards.
Chemicals and Hazardous Materials
- The Ministry of Environment and Renewable Energies (MEER) regulates the import of chemicals and hazardous materials.
- Import licenses are required, along with detailed safety data sheets (SDS).
- Strict adherence to packaging, labeling, and transportation regulations is crucial.
Used Goods and Equipment
- The import of used goods and equipment, including vehicles and machinery, is generally prohibited or subject to strict restrictions.
- Exceptions may be made for specific sectors and purposes, but require approval from the Ministry of Trade.
Other Regulated Products
Several other product categories require import licenses, including:
- Cultural Goods and Antiques: Ministry of Culture
- Telecommunications Equipment: Regulatory Authority for Post and Electronic Communications (ARPCE)
- Explosives and Firearms: Ministry of National Defense
- Alcoholic Beverages: Ministry of Commerce
Prohibited and Restricted Imports
Prohibited
- Narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances
- Pornographic and obscene materials
- Counterfeit and pirated goods
- Hazardous waste
- Ozone-depleting substances
- Used tires
- Asbestos
- Products originating from Israel
Restricted (require special permits)
- Live animals and animal products
- Plants and plant products
- Used clothing
- Alcohol
- Tobacco products
- Firearms and ammunition
- Explosives
- Radioactive materials
Relevant agencies
- Algerian Customs: The main authority responsible for enforcing import regulations, collecting duties and taxes, and facilitating trade.
- Ministry of Commerce: Regulates trade policies and issues import licenses for various products.
- Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD): Regulates food and agricultural imports.
- Ministry of Health, Population, and Hospital Reform: Regulates pharmaceuticals and medical devices.
- Ministry of Environment and Renewable Energies (MEER): Regulates chemicals and hazardous materials.
- National Agency for Pharmaceutical Products (ANPP): Responsible for registering and authorizing pharmaceutical products.
Free Time
- Typically, 7-14 days for general cargo and 14-21 days for containerized cargo after discharge.
- Free time can vary depending on the shipping line and port.
Demurrage Charges
- Applied when the free time is exceeded.
- Calculated per container, per day.
- Rates vary depending on the shipping line, container size, and time elapsed.
Detention charges
- Applied when the container is held beyond the agreed-upon time for return to the shipping line after being picked up from the port.
- Separate from demurrage charges.
- Rates vary depending on the shipping line and container size.
Storage Limitations
- Port terminals have limited storage capacity.
- Containers not cleared within the allowed time are moved to an off-dock depot at the importer’s expense.
Calculation Methods
Demurrage and detention charges are usually calculated based on calendar days, including weekends and public holidays.
Commercial Invoice
- Detailed description of goods (including HS codes)
- Quantity, weight, and unit price of goods
- Total invoice value (in USD or EUR)
- Incoterms (International Commercial Terms)
- Payment terms
- Consignee and consignor details
Packing List
- Detailed list of all items in each package
- Description, quantity, weight, and dimensions of each item
- Package markings and numbers
Bill of Lading/Airway Bill
- Evidence of the contract of carriage between the shipper and carrier
- Details of the shipment, including the consignee, consignor, and port of loading/discharge
Certificate of Origin
- Declares the origin of the goods
- Issued by the Chamber of Commerce in the exporting country
- May be required for preferential tariff treatment under trade agreements (e.g., EU-Algeria Association Agreement)
- Import License/Permit (for regulated goods):
- Issued by the relevant government agency
Insurance Certificate
Covers the value of the goods during transportation
Other Certificates
- Phytosanitary certificate (for plants and plant products)
- Health certificate (for animals and animal products)
- Certificate of analysis (for chemicals and food products)
- CITES permit (for endangered species)
Import licenses and permits
-
Identify the Regulating Agency
- Determine the specific ministry or agency responsible for your goods based on the product category.
-
Gather Required Documents
- Proforma invoice or commercial contract
- Technical specifications and data sheets (if applicable)
- Certificates of origin, analysis, quality, etc.
- Business registration documents (for companies)
- Taxpayer identification number (NIF)
-
Submit Application
- Complete the import license application form.
- Submit the application along with required documents and fees to the relevant agency.
- Applications are typically submitted online or in person.
-
Processing and Approval
- The application will be reviewed and processed by the agency.
- Processing times vary but can take several weeks.
- If approved, the import license will be issued.
-
Validity and Renewal
- Validity periods vary depending on the product and agency.
- Renewal procedures involve submitting a new application with updated documents before the expiry date.
-
Costs
- Import license fees vary depending on the product and agency.
- Additional costs may include inspection fees and testing fees.
Customs clearance procedures
-
Pre-shipment Inspection (PSI)
- Mandatory for most commercial shipments valued over USD 2,500.
- Conducted by authorized inspection companies in the country of origin.
- Verifies the quality, quantity, and value of goods.
-
Arrival and Unloading:
- Vessel or aircraft arrives at the port or airport.
- Cargo is unloaded and placed in customs control.
-
Document Lodgement and Declaration
- Importer or their agent lodges import documents (commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, etc.) with customs.
- Electronic declaration is submitted through the electronic customs system.
-
Assessment and Payment
- Customs verifies the documents and assesses import duties, taxes, and fees.
- Payment is made through a local bank.
-
Inspection (if required)
- Customs may select shipments for physical inspection based on risk assessment.
-
Release of Goods
- If the shipment complies with all regulations and requirements, and duties/taxes are paid, customs releases the goods.
Port/Terminal operations
Major Seaports
- Port of Algiers: The largest and busiest port, handling containerized, bulk, and general cargo.
- Port of Oran: The second-largest port, also handling various types of cargo.
- Port of Annaba: An important port for industrial and commercial activities.
- Port of Skikda: A major oil and gas export terminal, also handling some general cargo.
Air Cargo Hub
Houari Boumediene Airport (Algiers): The main airport for air cargo imports.
Cut-off Dates
- Vary depending on the shipping line and destination.
- Confirm with your shipping agent or freight forwarder well in advance.
Documentation Requirements at Terminals
- Ensure all required documents are submitted electronically through the customs system before the shipment arrives.
- Original documents may be required for verification at the terminal.
Container Pickup/Drop-off and Storage
- Coordinate with your shipping agent or freight forwarder for container pickup and drop-off procedures.
- Be aware of free time limitations and potential demurrage/detention charges.
Disclaimer: This information is based on the latest available data and may be subject to change. Always consult with relevant authorities and experts for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
Export regulations
Get a detailed guide that provides an in-depth look into every aspect of the export process to ensure your goods are shipped efficiently and in compliance with all legal standards.
Product Categories Requiring Export Licenses/Permits
Hydrocarbons (Oil, Natural Gas, Petroleum Products)
- Algerias primary exports are hydrocarbons, and their export is strictly regulated by the Ministry of Energy and Mines (MEM) and the national oil company, Sonatrach.
- Export licenses are required for all hydrocarbon products, and the government controls production quotas and export volumes.
- Specific regulations apply to the export of natural gas, including contractual agreements with foreign buyers and adherence to international standards.
Agricultural Products
Dates
Dates are a significant agricultural export, and their export is regulated by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD). Exporters must obtain export permits and comply with quality standards.
Olive Oil
Olive oil exports are regulated by the Office National de l’Huile (ONH). Exporters must obtain export licenses and meet specific quality and packaging standards.
Mineral Products (Phosphates, Iron, Zinc)
The export of mineral products is regulated by the MEM. Export licenses are required for most minerals, and exporters must comply with environmental regulations and mining laws.
The state-owned mining company, SONAREM, plays a significant role in mineral exports.
Manufactured Goods
Textiles and Apparel: While not requiring specific export licenses, the export of textiles and apparel is subject to compliance with rules of origin under various trade agreements, such as the Association Agreement with the European Union.
Other Manufactured Goods
Some manufactured goods, like electronics and machinery, may require export permits depending on their nature and destination.
Other Regulated Products
Export licenses or permits may also be required for specific products like:
- Cultural Goods and Antiquities: Regulated by the Ministry of Culture.
- Live Animals and Animal Products: Regulated by the MARD.
- Plants and Plant Products: Regulated by the MARD.
- Prohibited and Restricted Exports:
Prohibited
- Narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances: Strictly prohibited under national and international law.
- Pornographic and obscene materials: Not permitted for export.
- Counterfeit and pirated goods: Illegal to export due to intellectual property rights violations.
- Hazardous waste (Basel Convention): The export of hazardous waste is strictly controlled to protect human health and the environment.
- Ozone-depleting substances (Montreal Protocol): Export is prohibited to protect the ozone layer.
- Weapons and ammunition: Except with authorization from the Ministry of National Defense.
Restricted (require special permits)
- Endangered species and products (CITES): Requires permits from the Ministry of Environment and Renewable Energies (MEER) and adherence to CITES regulations.
- Live animals and animal products: Require health certificates from the MARD to ensure animal health and prevent the spread of diseases.
- Plants and plant products: Require phytosanitary certificates from the MARD to prevent the introduction of pests and diseases into other countries.
- Certain minerals and metals: May require export permits or be subject to export quotas.
Required Documents
Commercial Invoice: Detailed description of goods (including HS codes), quantity, weight, value (in USD or DZD), Incoterms, payment terms, and complete details of the consignee and consignor.
Packing List: Itemized list of goods in each package, including description, quantity, weight, dimensions, and package markings.
Bill of Lading/Airway Bill: Evidence of the contract of carriage between the shipper and carrier, with details of the shipment, consignee, consignor, and port of loading/discharge.
Certificate of Origin: Issued by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Algeria (CCIA), declaring the origin of the goods. It may be required for preferential tariff treatment under trade agreements.
Export Declaration (DEX): Electronic declaration submitted through the electronic customs system, providing detailed information about the shipment.
Export License/Permit (if applicable): Issued by the relevant government agency.
Export Declaration Process (through electronic customs system)
- Register as an exporter on the electronic customs system platform.
- Prepare and submit the DEX electronically through the system.
- Customs verifies the declaration and supporting documents.
- If compliant, customs approves the export and issues an export authorization.
Required Export Certificates
- Phytosanitary Certificate (for plants and plant products): Issued by the MARD.
- Health Certificate (for live animals and animal products): Issued by the MARD.
- Certificate of Analysis (for certain products): Issued by an accredited laboratory to confirm quality and safety standards.
- CITES Permit (for endangered species): Issued by the MEER.
- Conformity Certificate: Required for certain products to ensure compliance with Algerian or international standards.
Major Seaports
- Port of Algiers: The largest and busiest port, handling containerized, bulk, and general cargo.
- Port of Oran: The second-largest port, also handling various types of cargo.
- Port of Annaba: An important port for industrial and commercial activities.
- Port of Skikda: A major oil and gas export terminal, also handling some general cargo.
Air Cargo Hub
Houari Boumediene Airport (Algiers): The main airport for air cargo exports, with dedicated cargo terminals and handling facilities.
Cut-off Times and Procedures
- Vary depending on the shipping line or airline and destination.
- Confirm with your shipping agent or freight forwarder well in advance.
- Procedures typically include document submission through the electronic customs system, customs clearance, security screening, and cargo loading.
Container Storage and Free Time
- All major seaports offer container storage facilities.
- Free time for storage varies depending on the port and shipping line, typically ranging from 3 to 7 days.
- Storage fees apply after the free time expires.
Returning Empty Containers
- Coordinate with your shipping line or agent to return empty containers to the designated depot.
- Failure to return containers on time may result in detention charges.
Duties, Taxes, and Fees
Export Duties: Generally, Algeria does not impose export duties on most goods. However, specific export taxes may apply to certain products (e.g., hydrocarbons, minerals).
Other Fees: Customs processing fees, document handling charges, terminal handling charges, storage fees (if applicable), and any specific taxes or levies related to the exported product.
Disclaimer: This information is based on the latest available data and may be subject to change. Always consult with relevant authorities and experts for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
Expertise You Can Trust
Seamless cross-border shipping to and from Algeria
Shipping to and from Algeria can be complex, but with Limark, you have an experienced guide. We understand the intricacies of Algerian customs and compliance, ensuring your shipments move smoothly and efficiently through the system.
Our expanding presence in Algeria is fueled by our commitment to providing reliable and cost-effective shipping services to and from Algeria. Our team of skilled local supply chain experts, combined with our robust infrastructure and technology, ensures that your shipments are handled with the utmost care and efficiency. Contact our team to request a quote, book, or learn more about our end-to-end solutions.
Get Expert Guidance
Anything you need, we’re here to help
Partner with experienced freight forwarders and customs brokers for seamless shipping to and from Algeria. Ensure full documentation compliance with the guidance and logistics services of our team.
Sales enquiries
We’re happy to talk to you about your shipment needs anytime. Please get in touch with us.
Ready to ship?
Get your shipment moving faster. Request a quote today for our end-to-end supply chain services.
Other African Countries
