North Africa’s Economy
Algeria Expands Core Infrastructure Investment Across Core Sectors
Algeria is scaling up investment in core infrastructure as part of a long-term strategy spanning transport, water security, energy, and mining. Backed by multi-billion-dollar allocations in the 2026 state budget, the program targets roads, railways, ports, airports, and large-scale hydraulic projects, alongside major mining developments linked to new logistics corridors.
Authorities frame the effort as both an economic and social priority, aimed at improving service reliability, supporting industrial growth, and reducing regional disparities, particularly in remote southern areas. Several projects rank among the largest of their kind in Africa and reflect a continued reliance on state-led development to address structural challenges
Morocco’s Lawyers Push Back Against Proposed Changes to Bar Governance
A proposed law governing Morocco’s legal profession has triggered protests and a nationwide strike, as lawyers accuse the Justice Ministry of sidelining consultations and expanding executive oversight. The dispute suggests broader tensions over professional independence, regulatory authority, and the future of Morocco’s legal market.
Burkina Faso: Deep Supply Weaknesses in Ouagadougou Amid Seasonal Butane Shortages
Each year between December and January, Ouagadougou faces a renewed shortage of butane gas just as household demand peaks. The recurring tension on supply, linked to limited stocks, uneven distribution and a shortage of empty cylinders for refilling, is forcing many families to fall back on charcoal and firewood, with financial, health and environmental consequences.
Air Algérie Expands Long-Haul Capacity With Second A330-900neo
Air Algérie has added a second Airbus A330-900neo to its fleet as part of a gradual long-haul renewal program. The aircraft has been assigned to routes linking Algiers with Dubai, Beijing, and Guangzhou, reflecting a focus on maintaining capacity on established intercontinental markets rather than rapid network expansion.
Tourists and Egyptians Abroad Support the Egyptian Economy
Tourism and remittances from Egyptians working abroad remain two of Egypt’s most important sources of foreign currency. As the economy continues to face external financing pressure, these inflows support the balance of payments, domestic consumption, and service-sector employment. Recent growth in tourist arrivals and a rebound in remittance flows highlight how closely Egypt’s economic management depends on international travel demand and overseas labor income.
Algeria: Supply Disruptions and Rising Food Prices Amid Transport Strike
A nationwide freight transport strike in Algeria is disrupting food supply chains and driving sharp price increases across local markets. Reduced truck movements have slowed deliveries to wholesale distribution hubs, limiting the availability of fruits and vegetables and placing pressure on household budgets. Key agricultural and commercial regions are reporting thinning stocks, while retailers warn that prolonged disruption could exhaust remaining supplies. The situation highlights structural vulnerabilities in logistics networks and the direct link between transport continuity, food availability, and price stability.
Morocco: Financial Authorities Probe Distressed Property Transactions, Money Laundering Concerns Grow
Moroccan financial intelligence authorities have intensified oversight of the real estate sector following a series of alerts from notaries and property professionals in major cities. Investigators are examining transactions involving stalled or distressed construction projects that were acquired through complex financial arrangements designed to clear debts and lift bank seizures. While the deals were formally compliant with tax and legal requirements, officials are assessing whether they were used to conceal illicit financial flows, with several cases now under in-depth review in coordination with domestic and foreign oversight bodies.
Algeria: Fuel Price Increase Triggers Brief Transport Disruption, Services Resume
Algeria began 2026 with a limited adjustment to domestic fuel prices, a move authorities say is necessary to secure supply and sustain distribution networks while maintaining state subsidies. The increase triggered a short nationwide transport strike, with taxi drivers and freight operators protesting higher operating costs and new road regulations. Following emergency talks with government officials, unions agreed to suspend the strike after commitments were made on fare revisions, legislative adjustments, and support measures, allowing transport services to resume ahead of the school reopening.
Tunisian Equity Market Posts Record Gains in 2025
Tunisia’s stock market ended 2025 with record-breaking gains, as rising corporate earnings, increased liquidity, and stronger investor participation pushed benchmark indices to historic highs. The rally, now extending into a fifth consecutive year, reflects growing confidence in listed companies and a gradual reallocation of domestic savings toward equities, even as broader economic challenges persist.
Algeria: Rail, Water, and Transport Drive 2026 Infrastructure Spending
Algeria’s 2026 finance law points to a renewed infrastructure investment cycle centered on rail transport, water systems, and national connectivity. With more than $10 billion allocated across rail, roads, ports, airports, and hydraulic infrastructure, the budget reflects a continued reliance on state-led capital spending to support industrial expansion, resource logistics, and regional integration. Major rail corridors linked to mining exports and southern connectivity underscore Algeria’s focus on long-horizon infrastructure assets, creating potential opportunities for contractors, equipment suppliers, engineering firms, and financing partners operating in large-scale public works.