All import to Algeria is classified by the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System.
Import prohibitions: firearms, explosives, narcotics, pork products, pornographic materials etc. prohibited on the grounds of safety, health and national security or religion. The distribution of alcohol is prohibited.
Import restrictions: a number of agricultural products (honey, cheese), luxury products (e.g., automobiles, perfumes and yachts). The list of restricted products is rewritten twice a year. Consumer goods, imported to Algeria, must have a warranty of six months to eighteen months depending on type of a product.
Documents Required
Commercial Invoice
A commercial invoice (in duplicate) is required including a detailed description of products, the total value of the invoice and terms (FOB, CIF, etc.); names and addresses of the exporter, importer, the manufacturer and consignee. Commercial invoice must be signed by the shipper and legalized by the consular services of the Algerian Embassy. in the event that the products contain foreign components the country of origin must be indicated along with the percentage of the foreign component.
Certificate of Origin
A certificate of origin is not required unless the importer claims it. At that rate two copies are required. The certificate of origin must be signed by an official of the exporting firm and certified by a recognized chamber of commerce.
Packing List
The packing list should be in French and included with ocean freight shipments to facilitate customs processing. The list should describe the contents of each case (container) while mentioning the gross weights together with the CIF value of each commodity.
Bill of Lading
The bills of lading should include the gross weight and measurements, the name of the shipper, destination port, number of bills of lading in the full set, and date and signature of the carrier's official. Shipping numbers and marks should correspond to those shown on invoices and packages. The airway bill replaces the bill of lading on air cargo shipments.
Additional Documents
Importers must be registered in the commercial register and have the necessary Dinar to import products. All import licenses and the "specifications" system have been abolished.
Items intended as samples and having no commercial value are admitted duty free but have to be accompanied by a pro forma invoice. Advertising material is subject to customs duties except single catalogues sent as printed matters.
Import Duties and Taxes
Ad Valorem Duties
Ad valorem duties are assessed on a CIF basis, which includes wholesale value of goods in the country of origin, transport charges, export duties, insurance, commissions, freight and other costs incurred before the goods reach Algerian customs control. Customs duties and warehouse charges are not included in the dutiable value.
Preferential duties
There are preferential duties between Algeria and the European Union countries that are similar to those included within the framework of the EU's convention with African, Caribbean and Pacific developing countries. There are also preferential duties with the Arab Maghreb Union countries: Libya, Morocco, Mauritania and Tunisia). Imports of products originating in the AMU countries are customs duties free.
Customs Taxes Rates
The main rates of customs taxes are the next: 7% on necessities, 13% on the majority of goods, and 21% on finished commodity and luxury items and finally. There is an additional tax on the customs value of the goods plus duties and VAT. It ranges from 10% to 80% depending on the item.
Labeling Requirements
All goods, imported to Algeria (especially consumer products) must be labeled in Arabic. This customs regulation is strictly obliged. It is also desirable to label goods in French.
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