North Africa’s Economy
Morocco Strengthens Global Standing with Record Tourism Growth
Morocco welcomed 15 million tourists between January and September 2025, a 14 percent increase from last year. The steady rise, including 1.4 million arrivals in September alone, reflects stronger air links, new marketing efforts, and ongoing improvements to visitor experiences.
Algeria Pushes for Ambitious Cashless Economy by 2028
Algeria’s central bank has set a goal to phase out cash transactions completely by 2028, launching an ambitious strategy to expand digital payments and modernize the financial system. But with most Algerians relying on cash, skepticism remains over how quickly this transition will take place.
Egypt’s Red Sea Crisis Intersects with U.S. Trade Strategy in Global Infrastructure Rivalry
Attacks in the Red Sea have cost the Egypt over $9 billion in lost Suez Canal revenue, cutting daily ship traffic by nearly 60% and straining the country’s foreign reserves.
Egypt Draws a Red Line on Nile Rights in GERD Dispute
Egypt has reiterated that the Nile River is an “existential issue” for his country, warning that Cairo will not compromise or tolerate unilateral measures over its water security. Egypt says it is relying on international law to defend its rights as tensions continue with Ethiopia over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.
Egypt’s Fuel Price Hike Deepens Economic Strain Amid IMF Reforms
Egypt has raised fuel prices for the second time this year, increasing gasoline, diesel, and CNG rates by up to 13% as part of IMF-backed reforms to reduce subsidies and stabilize public finances. The move, effective October 17, is expected to ripple across transport, food, and manufacturing sectors as inflation remains stubbornly above 11%.
Sonatrach Signs $5.4 Billion Exploration Deal With Saudi Firm Midad Energy
Algeria’s Sonatrach has signed a $5.4 billion production-sharing contract with Saudi Arabia’s Midad Energy North Africa to explore and develop hydrocarbons in the Illizi Sud field, marking one of the country’s largest energy partnerships of 2025.
Algeria’s 2026 Budget Plan: Spending Rises with Emphasis on Salaries, Subsidies, and Investment
Algeria’s 2026 draft budget raises government spending above 17.6 trillion dinars, with a significant portion allocated to public salaries, subsidies for basic goods, and infrastructure investments. The plan anticipates 4.1% economic growth.
Tunisian SMEs Warn of Economic Paralysis Over 20% Bank Guarantee Rule
Tunisian SMEs say a new rule requiring a 20% bank guarantee for service contracts risks shutting them out of the market and harming the country’s business climate, with experts urging the government to revise the measure.
Morocco Boosts Russian Oil Imports Despite Sanctions
Morocco imported 188,000 tonnes of Russian petroleum in August—a jump of more than 50,000 tonnes from July—despite international sanctions, highlighting shifting energy trade across North Africa.
Tunisia: Diaspora Funds Provide Lifeline for Tunisia’s Economy
Tunisians abroad sent home 6.5 billion dinars (about $2.05 billion USD) by September 2025, with remittances providing a crucial source of stable income and foreign currency for the national economy.