A diplomatic meeting in Saudi Arabia could reshape Algeria’s economic ties with the Islamic world, but entrepreneurs and the diaspora must watch for concrete moves.
Algeria’s Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf met Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed, the newly elected Secretary-General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), in Jeddah on Thursday. The talks took place during the 23rd Extraordinary Session of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers, according to APS English.
Why this meeting matters for Algerian businesses
The OIC groups 57 member states, including major economies like Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Indonesia. For Algeria, which exports hydrocarbons, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals, this forum could open new trade corridors.
Algeria’s foreign trade hit $100 billion in 2025, with Europe as its top partner. But the OIC represents a market of over 1.8 billion Muslims—many of whom could be buyers for Algerian goods. If Attaf pushes for OIC trade agreements, Algerian exporters of dates, olive oil, and textiles could see demand rise.
The diaspora’s role in economic ties
Algeria’s diaspora—estimated at 5 million—is spread across France, Canada, and Gulf states. Many work in trade, construction, and finance. A stronger OIC presence could help them leverage business networks in Muslim-majority countries.
For example, Algerian entrepreneurs in Dubai or Istanbul could use OIC platforms to source materials or expand into new markets. The OIC’s investment funds, like the Islamic Development Bank, could also offer financing for Algerian SMEs.
A focus on African and Arab economic links
Attaf’s portfolio includes African affairs, meaning the meeting could also strengthen Algeria’s ties with African OIC members like Senegal, Nigeria, and Morocco. These countries are key for Algerian gas exports and infrastructure projects.
If Algeria secures OIC-backed infrastructure deals, local construction firms could win contracts in Africa. The OIC’s focus on digital trade could also help Algerian tech startups access regional markets.
Watch for trade deals, not just diplomacy
While the meeting itself produced no immediate announcements, past OIC sessions have led to trade agreements. For instance, Turkey and Malaysia used the OIC to boost halal food exports. Algerian businesses should prepare for similar opportunities.
Entrepreneurs should monitor OIC trade fairs, investment summits, and halal certification programs. The OIC’s halal certification could help Algerian food exporters enter Gulf markets, where demand for certified products is high.
Key takeaway for entrepreneurs
This meeting signals Algeria’s push to deepen economic ties with the Islamic world. Entrepreneurs should track OIC trade initiatives, especially in halal food, pharmaceuticals, and construction. The diaspora can use OIC networks to expand businesses into Muslim-majority markets, while local firms may gain access to OIC-backed financing. Concrete results could come in trade deals or investment funds—watch for updates from the OIC Council.
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