The Algerian Association of Banks and Financial Institutions (ABEF) has authorized the partial resumption of chicken imports from Spain, representing 60% of Algeria's previous consumption. The decision marks a thaw in trade relations that were strained due to the diplomatic crisis over Western Sahara. A circular dated January 14 permits the import of poultry inputs, including breeding chicks and hatching eggs, from Spain. The employers' association, awaiting actions from banking entities and ministries, has urged users to proceed with the mandatory domiciliation procedure for imports, a process blocked by ABEF in 2022 during the suspension of the Treaty of Friendship with Spain.
Diplomatic relations between Algeria and Spain soured in March 2022 when Spain supported Morocco's stance on Western Sahara. The recent authorization for chicken imports is viewed as another step in the diplomatic thaw initiated after Algeria appointed a new ambassador to Spain in November. The Algerian Ministry of Transport also approved an increase in flights between the two countries in December. The move signals a positive development in Spain-Algeria relations, reflecting normalization and good diplomatic ties. Spanish Minister of Agriculture Luis Planas welcomes the news and hopes for the resurgence of Spanish exports in the significant Mediterranean market.