**Weekly trends**
**Digital infrastructure: fintech, AI, and state portals**
The government approved the launch of Dzair Digital Services Portal. The portal will centralize administrative procedures for businesses and citizens. Six new energy sector services were integrated this week, including solar panel registration and gas connection requests. The portal operates under the National AI Strategy, reviewed this month. No timeline was given for full deployment.
AI strategy progress was measured against 2023 benchmarks. The strategy targets 5,000 AI-trained professionals by 2027. Current figures: 1,200 trained since 2023. No private sector participation was disclosed.
**Industrial investment: steel, automotive, and hydrogen**
Opel confirmed local vehicle and engine production in Algeria. No investment figure was released. Opel’s Algerian partner is Sovac, a local distributor. Production will start in 2026 at Sovac’s existing plant in Rouiba. Target output: 50,000 vehicles annually. Opel’s current Algerian sales: 12,000 units in 2023.
Germany signed a hydrogen cooperation agreement with Algeria. No financial details were disclosed. Algeria’s hydrogen potential: 10-15 GW of green hydrogen by 2030. Germany’s demand: 100 TWh annually by 2030. A feasibility study is underway for a pipeline linking Algeria to Europe via Italy. First exports expected in 2028.
A third tire plant is under construction. No investor name was released. Algeria’s current tire production: 5 million units annually. The new plant will add 3 million units. Location: Oran. Completion: 2026.
**SMEs and social protection reform**
Economic transformation incentives were outlined in a government report. Key measures: tax exemptions for startups, reduced customs duties on industrial equipment, and simplified land access. No new incentives were introduced this week. Existing tax breaks for SMEs: 3-year corporate tax exemption for new businesses. Uptake: 2,800 SMEs in 2023.
**Logistics and infrastructure**
Wastewater treatment capacity expanded. Algeria now has 190 treatment plants. Target: 250 by 2027. Current coverage: 85% of urban areas. Investment: DZD 120 billion (USD 900 million) since 2020.
**Education and digital integration**
The national digital services portal added six energy sector services. Other services: business registration, tax filings, and social security. Uptake: 1.2 million users since 2023. Target: 5 million by 2025.
**Security and cultural updates**
Cultural events focused on religious and historical themes. No economic impact was measured.
**Weekly balance**
**Key takeaway for entrepreneurs**
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