Algeria's e-commerce market is booming. With over 30 million internet users, the growing adoption of CIB and Dahabia cards for online payment, and an ultra-connected young population, conditions to launch an online store in Algeria have never been so favorable.
Algeria's e-commerce market is expected to reach $2 billion by 2027, with annual growth of 25 to 30%.
E-Commerce Regulatory Framework in Algeria
Electronic commerce in Algeria is governed by Law No. 18-05 of May 10, 2018 on electronic commerce. This law defines the obligations of e-merchants:
- Have a trade register that includes the e-commerce activity
- Clearly display general terms and conditions of sale (T&Cs)
- Guarantee a 7 working-day right of withdrawal
- Protect customers' personal data (Law 18-07)
- Issue a compliant electronic invoice for each transaction
- Use hosting in Algeria or have an agreement with a foreign host
Integrating Online Payment
This is the critical challenge for any Algerian e-commerce. Here are the available options:
CIB & Dahabia via SATIM
The essential official solution. Requires a contract with your commercial bank. Accepts CIB and Dahabia cards. Integration via API or PrestaShop/WordPress module.
BaridiMob (Algérie Poste)
Mobile payment via the BaridiMob app. Ideal for reaching customers without a bank card. Integration by QR Code or dedicated merchant API.
Cash on Delivery (COD)
Still the preferred payment method for Algerians. 60 to 70% of e-commerce orders are paid in cash on delivery. A must-have to maximize your conversions.
Logistics: The Main Challenge
Delivery remains the biggest obstacle for Algerian e-commerce. Here are the key players:
- Algérie Poste: national network with affordable rates, but variable delivery times (3 to 7 days)
- Yassir Express: express delivery in major cities, API integration available
- Zr Express, Maystro, Procolis: private companies specializing in e-commerce delivery, COD possible
- Your own delivery driver: for local areas or high volumes
Choosing Your E-Commerce Platform
PrestaShop
The most widely used solution by Algerian e-merchants. Open source, CIB modules available, local hosting possible. Ideal for medium to large catalogs.
WooCommerce (WordPress)
Popular solution for small catalogs. Great flexibility, many themes, CIB integration via SATIM plugin available.
Custom Development
For specific needs (multi-vendor, auctions, B2B…). WEBMINDS develops e-commerce platforms 100% tailored to the Algerian market.
Pre-Launch Checklist
- Trade register with e-commerce activity
- CIB/Dahabia contract signed with your bank
- Terms & conditions drafted and displayed
- Clear return and refund policy
- Algerian or compliant hosting
- Law 18-07 compliance (personal data)
- Carrier integration with order tracking
- Google Analytics or custom tracker installed
- SEO-optimized product listings — free SEO audit available here
- Complete "About us" page and contact details