Business & Economy Bound

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 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.

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’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.