Despite numerous discussions in recent years, Algeria is still imposing restrictions on certain imports from the EU that run counter to the association agreement, the European Commission said on Friday 14 June. This is why it has decided to open a dispute under the agreement, which is starting with consultations.
The EU criticised Algiers for having introduced a system of authorisations for certain imports, which affects a variety of products including agricultural products and automobiles. It also denounced the existence of subsidies for Algerian car manufacturers, which are accompanied by local production conditions for certain parts. Algeria also allows importing companies to be owned by foreign companies.
Under the association agreement, the EU and Algeria are entering a period of consultations to try to resolve this dispute. If no solution is found, the EU may call for an arbitration panel to be set up. (Original version in French by Léa Marchal)