Businessmen urged to join trade mission to Algeria

The Foreign Ministry is encouraging businessmen to join a delegation to Algeria when President Eddie Fenech Adami visits the country on September 10 and 11.

Since a visa is required when travelling to Algeria, businessmen interested in joining the delegation are advised to hand in their passport and two photos to Philo Meli at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs by not later than Monday.

The aim of the business mission is to assist Maltese companies explore potential business opportunities in/with Algeria.

With a domestic market of 33 million consumers, Algeria offers significant trade and investment opportunities for Maltese businesses. Algeria is extremely dependent on imports in most sectors. With the entry into force of the EU/Algeria Association Agreement in September 2005, trade between Algeria and the European Union is now governed by the terms and provisions of this preferential deal. Algeria is strengthening and diversifying its economy. A widespread privatisation programme is underway. Over 1,000 public enterprises are due to be privatised in the next couple of years. Economic development is also envisaged in the following sectors: food-processing, chemicals, electronics, healthcare and pharmaceuticals, construction and public works, hotel management and tourism, banking and financial services, business consulting, telecommunications and IT.

Additional information on this business mission, a company profile form and a visa application form can be obtained from Mr Meli, General Affairs and International Trade Directorate, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, telephone 2204 2236 or via e-mail at philo.meli@gov.mt. The company profile form must be filled as accurately as possible to facilitate appropriate matching with potential Algerian business partners.

Foreign Minister Michael Frendo and Malta's non-resident Ambassador to Algeria, Mark Miggiani, will accompany the President.