Bank of Algeria approves five major reforms, including deferred debit and international online payments
via Algérie3603 min read
The Bank of Algeria has introduced five new banking services through an update to its authorized products and services collection, effective May 14, 2026. These changes aim to modernize daily transactions and enhance financial flexibility for households and businesses. Key reforms include the introduction of a deferred debit CIB card for individuals, allowing purchases throughout the month with a single predetermined monthly deduction. The central bank has also officially reinstated consumer credit for household goods acquisition, providing a secure banking framework for financing domestic equipment. A significant development is the launch of interbank QR code payments, simplifying direct person-to-person transfers, instant payments to merchants and professionals, and business-to-person reimbursements. This technology, requiring only a printed code or smartphone, is expected to integrate informal monetary mass and encourage small businesses into the official banking circuit. Additionally, the Bank of Algeria now permits in-branch withdrawals and deposits for remote banking users. Algerian e-merchants are also gaining access to international markets, with new international card ranges Visa, Mastercard, American Express authorized for individuals and professionals. For the first time, Algerian web merchants can accept payments via foreign bank cards, enabling them to sell products globally and receive funds online. This move is expected to boost the tourism sector and digital e
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Algerian higher education has reached a historic milestone with nine universities entering the US News Best Global Universities ranking. The University Djillali Liabès of Sidi Bel Abbès notably secured the 849th position worldwide, placing it among the top 1,000 global universities. This achievement reflects efforts to enhance academic quality and scientific output, based on criteria such as publication impact and international reputation. Concurrently, Algeria has inaugurated an "Emir Abdelkader Chair" at the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies OCIS at the University of Oxford, alongside naming a public room the "Algiers Room." This initiative, formalized by Minister Kamel Baddari and OCIS Director Dr. Farhan Nizami, aims to foster multidisciplinary research in humanities, social sciences, literature, philosophy, and interreligious dialogue. The agreement builds on a memorandum signed in October 2021, intensifying Algerian-British cooperation in joint research, language training, and transnational education. The chair will provide Algerian researchers with opportunities to become visiting researchers at Oxford, strengthening Algeria's academic and spiritual influence and offering Oxford a key scientific link to the Maghreb and Africa.
Must ReadThe Algerian Embassy in Washington D.C. has announced the exceptional opening of a temporary annex of its consular services in Kansas City, one of the host cities for the FIFA 2026 World Cup. This initiative, detailed in a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, aims to provide close assistance, logistical support, and necessary information to Algerian nationals and supporters traveling to cheer on the national team. The annex will operate throughout the team's stay and scheduled matches in the Kansas City area. Located at the Overland Park Convention Center 6000 College Blvd, Overland Park, KS 66211, the consular team will cover three priority areas: administrative assistance for lost passports or travel documents, practical advice on local regulations, access to sports venues, and safety instructions, and a permanent crisis and listening unit for unforeseen situations. Supporters are advised to save the emergency number 415-909-9760 upon arrival in the US. Local authorities have implemented the ConnectKC26 plan for transportation, including a free shuttle from the international airport to the central hub and a special stadium shuttle to Arrowhead Stadium for $15 round trip on match days. The Region Direct pass offers unlimited public transport access for $5 per day, and a full tournament pass is available for $50. Accommodation prices are expected to range from $30 to over $200 per night. This consular annex is part of a broader mobilization, which includes the Alge
Must ReadAlgeria and Denmark have formed a strategic alliance aimed at producing advanced treatments for so-called "incurable" cancers in Algeria. This partnership integrates the Saidal group into biotechnology and cell therapy, specifically CAR-T therapy, with the goal of transforming medical care and ensuring Algeria's health sovereignty. Katrine From Høyer, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Denmark to Algeria, stated that the alliance reflects a shared desire to strengthen ties in the health sector through expertise sharing and exploration of development opportunities. Mourad Belkhalfa, Director General of the Saidal group, detailed the company's shift towards innovation and biotechnology. He announced the opening of a new rapid diagnostic test production unit and highlighted Saidal's engagement in technology transfer contracts with international laboratories to produce innovative molecules. Additionally, Saidal is establishing the Algerian Institute of Cell and Gene Therapy to localize the manufacturing of complex treatments, including CAR-T cells for incurable cancers. This strategic plan aims to position Algeria as a leading African hub in connected health and high medical technology.