Step 1: Understand the legal framework
The National Centre for Public Procurement (CNRC) oversees compliance. For contracts below the threshold, local authorities (ministries, municipalities) may still require formal tenders. Always verify the exact rules with the Ministry of Finance or the procuring entity.
Pitfall: Assuming smaller contracts are exempt—some agencies enforce stricter rules regardless of value.
Step 2: Register as a supplier
Required documents:
– Business registration certificate (extrait de l’immatriculation)
– Tax identification number (numéro fiscal)
– Bank account details (confirmed by an Algerian bank)
– Proof of financial capacity (audited accounts or bank guarantees, if requested)
– Professional experience certificates (for past contracts)
Pitfall: Missing documents delay registration. The CNRC may reject incomplete submissions without prior notice.
Step 3: Identify procurement opportunities
SMEs should also monitor local municipality notices and public sector websites (e.g., Sonatrach, Sonelgaz, ANP).
Pitfall: Relying only on CNRC—some tenders are announced through internal networks or direct invitations.
Step 4: Prepare bid documents
Pitfall: Submitting generic documents. Tailor each bid to the procuring entity’s needs.
Step 5: Submit the bid
Submission methods:
– Physical delivery (to the procuring entity’s office)
– Electronic submission (via CNRC’s portal or secure email)
– Registered mail (with proof of dispatch)
Pitfall: Assuming email submissions are accepted—some entities require physical copies.
Step 6: Bid evaluation and negotiation
SMEs may face challenges if they lack large-scale references. Some entities offer pre-qualification workshops to help SMEs improve bids.
Pitfall: Underestimating evaluation criteria—some contracts favor incumbents or foreign partners.
Step 7: Contract award and execution
Key obligations:
– Comply with payment terms (Algerian law requires 30% advance payment for public contracts).
– Submit progress reports as required.
– Resolve disputes through CNRC’s mediation before litigation.
Pitfall: Ignoring payment deadlines—public entities often delay releases, causing cash flow issues.
Step 8: Post-contract compliance
Pitfall: Assuming verbal agreements suffice—all changes must be documented in writing.
FAQ
2. How long does the procurement process take?
Timelines vary. Open tenders take 3–6 months, while restricted tenders (invited bidders) may take 2–4 months. Always check the tender notice for deadlines.
3. What if my bid is rejected?
Request feedback from the procuring entity. Rejections are often due to technical gaps or non-compliance—use this to improve future bids.
What to do next
Start by verifying your eligibility under Law No. 18-07 and register with the CNRC. Monitor tender notices closely, and prepare tailored bids with legal and financial support. For complex contracts, consult a local procurement specialist to navigate local practices.
Sources
💡 Starting a business in Algeria? GlobalStart guides you step by step: procedures, real costs, company forms (SARL, EURL, SPA) and CNRC registration.