The Algerian imported car market is experiencing a state of anticipation with the imminent implementation of a new mechanism for calculating customs duties. This mechanism relies on actual purchase invoices from the importing country rather than European reference prices.
This step is expected to significantly reduce customs duties, especially on cars coming from China, which are cheaper despite bearing the same global brands manufactured in Europe. This could lead to a significant decrease in car prices in the Algerian market.
Journalist Nabil Meghrif, in an interview with a media outlet, indicated that this measure will contribute to improving citizens’ purchasing power and represents a real opportunity to purchase cars at reasonable prices. He also explained that this measure has been approved by official bodies and aims to ease the burden on citizens without impacting the state treasury.
Practical example: The Skoda Karoq will see its customs duties reduced from 180 million centimes to 108 million centimes, a reduction of approximately 80 million centimes.
Car prices will drop by approximately 10,000 euros, the difference between car prices in Europe and China for the same models. This will lead to lower customs duties. Algerian customs used to rely on European reference prices to calculate the price of imported cars, which is higher than the selling price in China and other countries.
For his part, economic expert Nabil Jumaa emphasized that this customs change enhances transaction flexibility and is a practical translation of the state’s vision to support purchasing power. However, he warned of the need for strict oversight to prevent invoice manipulation.
The measure is expected to contribute to stimulating the imported car market, especially used cars, provided it is implemented transparently and rigorously.
