Establishing Business Contacts in Algeria

If you wish to enter into business with a company or person in Algeria you will likely have to learn a bit about the culture and people to make it successful. There are some unique customs in Algeria and most of the locals speak Arabic - making successful negotiations an art. Many also speak French which can be helpful. There are also a few formalities which - when noted - help the whole process to go over more smoothly. Some of these practices are mentioned below.

Taking into account the country's history of conflict, it is understandable that Algerians tend to be more trusting when they have established who it is they are dealing with. Therefore it is good practice to spend time developing a rapport and building trust with potential clients. Their concept of personal space is also rather different to that of the average European or American. Algerians tend to stand very close and sometimes hold each other's arms. This is merely a part of the culture and you would do best to imitate it. Never embarrass your client - especially in public - and keep in mind that any favors you do will likely be repaid.

If you plan to make use of business cards, it is usually a good idea to have them translated into French or Arabic and remember to always use your right hand to give and receive. Appointments are best made far in advance and confirmed a day or two before the meeting. Remember that Algeria is mainly a Muslim country so do not try to make appointments that conflict with religious observations. It is also good practice to be on time for meetings but you may have to wait for your Algerian business partner. Meetings may be interrupted by non-related parties and these may temporarily distract the people you are meeting with. The conversation will likely return to the subject at hand once the person leaves. Women are not perceived to be equals as business associates and, if possible, a male representative should be sent instead.

User Comments & Reviews

habib
2010-09-06 06:35:20

السلام عليكم ورحمت الله وبركاته لكل من يريد وكيل في الجزائر أنا عندي خبرة في التعامل مع الشركات الأجنبية تعاملت مع العديد من الشركات تقريبا في جميع المجالات لمن يهم الأمر habibo3002@hotmail.com / habibo3002@yahoo.fr

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Younis
2010-08-30 11:25:07

We are looking for Agent in Algeria, we are working on Building materials, Locks for doors and full doors accessories, if any body intrested please let me know on younis.ali@assaabloyuk.com

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nabil
2010-08-18 01:20:28

i looking for peopel ho need represantativ in algeria or need to stok any goods or toristic busness i spek arabic - english- fransh my email is nafa770@yahoo.ie

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lelya
2010-07-19 11:32:04

I am trying to find out what OIL COMPANIES are operating in Algeria. Your website offers only tourist related information.
if you want to get more information about oil compagnikes in Algeria, so please visite this website: www.sonatrach-dz.com

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Bob Chiu
2010-07-19 07:25:44

i am trying to get in touch with those people who doing business in algeria ,probably ,i will be useful to assist whatever company,considering myself native algerian ,grow up in england ,and living in spain.
I am doing diesel generator set business, and would like to visit Algeria for business oppotunities, but there are very little information on the internet, is it possible for you to do me a favor?

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kihia
2010-07-03 07:05:08

Am from Kenya and would like to export coffee,tea and bee honey from Kenya to Algeria.Please contact me on my email address for details.

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NOUFEL DERBAL
2010-05-15 18:56:14

i am trying to get in touch with those people who doing business in algeria ,probably ,i will be useful to assist whatever company,considering myself native algerian ,grow up in england ,and living in spain.

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Sami
2010-05-13 19:06:28

I have an Import /Export company that deals with spare parts of any kind of machinery, and Also Dry goods, if you need any information or have any interest please contact me. I do Also speak French ,Arabic ,and have some knowledge in German.

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G. Salme
2010-05-12 17:20:55

We are looking for filters wholesale traders in Algeria, We want to export our Air, Oil, Fuel filters to your market.

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Issac
2010-05-12 12:25:22

I am from China and looking for people who can be agent to contact with the local poultry factory. I would like to buy chicken products from Algeria. yukiso_yu@hotmail.com

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