The Banque d’Algérie has implemented a new regulation, n° 26-02, dated July 23, 2026, which updates rules applicable to current transactions with foreign countries and foreign currency accounts. This new measure, effective immediately, revises the framework governing the repatriation of foreign currency from non-hydrocarbon exports in Algérie. The regulation, n° 26-02, concerning rules applicable to current transactions with foreign countries and foreign currency accounts has officially entered into force. This new directive significantly modifies the regulatory framework that was established by the previous regulation from November 17, 2016. Previously, under regulation N°2016-04 of November 17, 2016, exporters were required to repatriate export revenue within a maximum period of 360 days. This period was calculated from the date of shipment for goods or the date of performance for services.
New Repatriation Deadlines
Exporters in Algérie are now mandated to repatriate revenue from their non-hydrocarbon exports within a maximum period of 120 days. This period begins from the date of shipment for goods or the date of performance for services rendered. This marks a substantial reduction from the previous 360-day limit, reflecting a push for faster currency inflows. The new regulation also stipulates that the 180-day deadline for foreign currency repatriation represents the longest period an exporter can extend to their non-resident client for payment. This 180-day period constitutes the absolute maximum that an exporter can grant. The repatriation of these export proceeds must occur precisely on the day the non-resident client makes the payment, reinforcing the strict timeline. This measure by the Banque d’Algérie aims to tighten control over foreign currency inflows, ensuring quicker return of export earnings to the national economy.
Conditions for Extended Payment Terms
Non-hydrocarbon export contracts can be established on either a "cash or credit" basis. The new regulations stipulate that any payment deadline extended by the exporter to a non-resident client must be explicitly stated within the commercial contract. This ensures clarity and enforceability of the agreed-upon terms for foreign currency repatriation. This explicit mention within the commercial contract is a critical requirement for any credit-based transactions involving non-resident clients.
For situations where the payment deadline granted by the exporter to a non-resident client exceeds the standard 120-day period, but remains within a maximum of 180 days, additional conditions apply. In such cases, the export operation is required to be backed by export credit insurance. This insurance must be subscribed beforehand with the authorized national body, providing a safeguard for the extended payment terms and mitigating risks associated with longer payment cycles. The requirement for export credit insurance shows the Banque d’Algérie's commitment to securing the timely repatriation of foreign currency, even when extended payment terms are necessary for commercial operations.
Context and Previous Regulations
The new regulation, numbered 26-02 and dated July 23, 2026, issued by the Banque d’Algérie, significantly modifies the existing regulatory framework for foreign currency repatriation from non-hydrocarbon exports. This update revises specific provisions outlined in regulation N°2016-04, which was originally enacted on November 17, 2016. The previous regulation established a maximum period of 360 days for exporters to repatriate their export revenue, calculated from the date goods were shipped or services were rendered. The Banque d’Algérie's latest directive aims to refine these stipulations, introducing stricter deadlines and conditions for the return of foreign exchange earnings. These changes are part of broader efforts to enhance control over currency inflows and ensure the prompt integration of export proceeds into the national economy of Algérie. The modifications reflect an ongoing evolution in the country's financial policies related to international trade and its strategic focus on maximizing the benefits from its non-hydrocarbon export sector.