Understanding Algeria’s New Car Import Rules and Dealership Requirements

الجزائر 47 طرق عرض

Algeria’s automotive import sector has recently undergone significant regulatory changes aimed at formalizing the process for new car dealerships. Published in the Official Gazette No. 76, ال Executive Decree No. 22-383 introduces strict guidelines for new car importation through authorized dealerships. This article outlines the key provisions of the decree, covering dealership requirements, vehicle specifications, and payment conditions for car imports into Algeria.

Authorized New Car Dealership Regulations in Algeria

Under the new law, any business intending to import new vehicles for commercial sale in Algeria must first sign a franchise agreement with an automotive manufacturer. Only authorized dealers who have obtained this franchise agreement can engage in vehicle import activities. The regulation stipulates that each dealer can only represent one manufacturer, ensuring exclusivity and control over the dealership network.

Steps to Become an Authorized Dealer:

  1. Preliminary Authorization:
    Applicants must first secure a “preliminary authorization”, valid for 12 أشهر. During this period, the applicant can begin the necessary investments to set up their dealership operations.
  2. Formal Licensing:
    After completing the required setup, applicants must apply for a formal license, which is mandatory to start their operations. The formal license is issued by the Minister of Industry and must be renewed every five years.

Requirements for Authorized Dealers

Authorized dealers are expected to have adequate facilities and personnel to ensure smooth operations. The key requirements include:

  • Showroom for vehicle display
  • After-sales service center
  • Storage facilities for vehicles and spare parts
  • Employing qualified or experienced staff

بالإضافة, within the first year of receiving the formal license, authorized dealers must establish service points in 28 provinces across Algeria to ensure nationwide coverage. They are also required to maintain a sufficient stock of original spare parts to meet customer needs.

Vehicle Types Allowed for Import

The decree permits authorized dealers to import a range of vehicle types, منها:

  • Gasoline cars
  • السيارات الكهربائية (المركبات الكهربائية)
  • Hydrogen-powered cars
  • Hybrid vehicles
  • Gasoline-electric hybrid cars
  • Gasoline-hydrogen hybrid cars
  • Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) مركبات
  • Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) مركبات

Payment and Delivery Terms

To prevent speculative practices and protect consumers, the decree outlines strict payment and delivery terms:

  1. Payment through Banking Channels:
    All vehicle purchases must be made through Algerian banks and financial systems, ensuring transparency and compliance with financial regulations.
  2. Advance Payment Limit:
    Vehicle orders require an advance payment of no more than 10% of the total vehicle price.
  3. Delivery Timeline:
    Dealers must deliver the ordered vehicle within 45 أيام from the order date. Once the customer pays the full price, the vehicle must be delivered within 7 أيام.

Mandatory Vehicle Specifications for Imports

The new regulations ensure that all imported vehicles meet essential safety and quality standards. Imported vehicles must be equipped with the following:

  • Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
  • Speed limiter or regulator
  • For vehicles with engine displacement greater than 1.2 لتر, additional features are required:
    • Two front airbags (driver and passenger seats)
    • Headrests for all seats
    • Windshield and rear window defrosting systems
    • Child safety seat anchors

Warranty Requirements

The decree also mandates minimum warranty periods for imported vehicles:

  • Passenger cars and light commercial vehicles: 5 سنوات أو 100,000 الكيلومترات, whichever comes first
  • Heavy-duty vehicles: 5 سنوات أو 80,000 الكيلومترات

These warranty requirements ensure that customers receive reliable vehicles with long-term support.

Definition of “New Vehicle” in Algeria

According to Article 2 of Decree No. 22-383, a new vehicle is defined as any land-based transport vehicle equipped with a propulsion engine (including electric engines) that has not been registered in any country or region.

To qualify as a new vehicle, the following criteria must be met:

  1. Not previously registered in any country
  2. Manufactured within 12 أشهر prior to entry into Algerian territory
  3. Mileage must not exceed:
    • 100 الكيلومترات for passenger and light commercial vehicles
    • 1,500 الكيلومترات for commercial or industrial vehicles

Regulation of Used Car Imports

As part of its efforts to combat speculation and regulate the automotive market, Algeria’s 2025 Finance Law includes a provision to regulate the importation of used cars. This provision aims to curb speculative practices and ensure that consumers receive fair prices when purchasing vehicles.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the regulations and policies outlined may change over time. Readers are advised to consult official government sources or legal experts for the most up-to-date information. السيارات في الصين assumes no responsibility for any actions taken based on the content of this article.