Algeria approves new mining law to attract foreign investment

Algeria has taken a significant step toward diversifying its economy with the approval of a new law designed to open up the mining sector to greater foreign participation. The legislation, which was signed by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and published in the official gazette, follows parliamentary approval two months earlier and is being promoted as a cornerstone for revitalizing one of the country’s most underdeveloped industries.

Scope of framework

The new framework introduces a range of measures aimed at making the sector more attractive to investors. Among the reforms is the creation of an electronic portal that will provide transparent information on available mining sites, a move intended to reduce opacity and speed up decision-making for exploration companies. The law also simplifies administrative processes, introduces quicker licensing procedures, and offers a package of incentives designed to encourage both domestic and international mining firms to commit long-term capital.

Officials argue that the reforms are part of a broader strategy to rebuild confidence in Algeria’s investment climate. By guaranteeing greater protection of investor rights and ensuring clearer rules for entry and operation, the government hopes to signal that the mining industry can serve as a stable pillar of growth outside the traditional oil and gas sector.

The Ministry of Energy and Mining said the new legislation will “improve the mining investment climate by simplifying access procedures to exploration and exploitation activities, making procedures more transparent, and providing more encouraging conditions for both national and foreign investors.”

Algeria, which holds significant reserves of iron ore, gold, rare earth elements, and other strategic minerals, views the law as part of its long-term economic diversification agenda. With global demand for critical raw materials continuing to rise, the government is betting that a modernized regulatory environment will help transform its mineral wealth into a sustainable driver of development.