Algiers (VNA) – Algeria’s merchandise exports to Vietnam remain modest due to the limited number of trade promotion programmes held in Vietnam, resulting in minimal participation by Algerian enterprises in international trade events there, including the Spring Fair, according to Hoang Duc Nhuan, Vietnam’s Trade Counsellor in Algeria.
Talking to Vietnam News Agency correspondents in Algiers about Algeria’s experience in organising trade fairs and prospects for bilateral trade, Nhuan said the North African country hosts hundreds of trade fairs and exhibitions each year, both multi-sectoral and specialised, at domestic and international levels.
In addition to product showcases, many events feature conferences, seminars and business networking activities. To attract foreign participants, organisers avoid holding major international fairs during the holy month of Ramadan and the summer holiday period.
Foreign firms wishing to join exhibitions in Algeria must register directly with organisers and pay booth rental fees in advance. Invitation letters are issued to facilitate visa procedures. Temporary importation of goods for exhibitions requires strict compliance with customs regulations to qualify for duty exemption, including full documentation and a commitment to re-export within the prescribed timeframe. Vietnamese enterprises can seek support from the Vietnam Trade Office in Algeria when participating in such events, he said.
Regarding trade potential, Nhuan noted that Algeria currently exports products such as carob powder, chicken feet and animal feed to Vietnam, and is seeking partners for dates, olive oil and margarine. The country is also capable of supplying crude oil, liquefied natural gas and mineral materials, which are in demand in Vietnam.
With a population of 47 million, Algeria represents a sizeable market with strong demand for food and consumer goods. Vietnam’s major exports to Algeria include green coffee beans, cashew nuts, pepper, desiccated coconut, seafood, chemicals, footwear and garments. Many of these items, particularly agricultural products, footwear and textiles, have secured a stable presence thanks to their competitive prices and quality.
Vietnam also has advantages in products that Algeria does not produce domestically but imports in large volumes, such as certain agricultural commodities, freshwater aquatic products, and raw materials.
However, Algeria maintains strict import controls to protect domestic production. As the country is not yet a member of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), it requires import licences and applies relatively high tariffs, averaging about 54% including value-added tax. The government restricts imports of finished goods while prioritising raw materials and products not produced locally.
Vietnamese goods face stiff competition from suppliers in China, India, Thailand and Indonesia. They are also at a tariff disadvantage compared to products from the European Union, Arab and African countries that have free trade agreements with Algeria.
To boost bilateral trade, the Vietnam Trade Office in Algeria will encourage Vietnamese firms to participate in major Algerian trade events and step up business matching activities. It will also promote Algerian participation in trade fairs in Vietnam and enhance market information exchange.
On the policy front, efforts will be made to advance negotiations towards a bilateral preferential trade agreement to reduce tariffs on key products.
Two-way trade reached approximately 550 million USD last year, up more than 170% compared to 2024, signalling significant room for further growth./.
