### diplomatic crisis between France and Algeria: impact on economic relations
The recent climbing of tensions between French and Algerian governments arouses a deep concern within the Algerian-French Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIAF). Its president, Michel Bisac, underlines with seriously the possible repercussions on economic exchanges, valued at some 5 billion euros in French exports to Algeria. This situation is not simply a diplomatic case, but it raises crucial questions about the future of trade relations between these two nations.
#### context of the crisis
The current crisis between Paris and Algiers seems to have intensified significantly, justifying the fears expressed by the CCIAF. Indeed, just after an apparent appeasement of relations, the climate deteriorated, in particular following the expulsion of twelve French civil servants, in response to a detention of an Algerian consular agent in France. This incident highlights the complexity of Franco-Algerian relations, often marked by historical, political, and economic issues.
It is relevant to note that the dynamics of these tensions are not new. Over the years, several phases of rapprochement and disagreements have been observed, but so far, commercial relations have been able, largely, to remain relatively preserved. The question then arises: how could this crisis be different from the previous ones?
### Potential economic consequences
Michel Bisac highlights a crucial point: the economic implications of a degradation of relations. Trade between France and Algeria, which reached 11.1 billion euros in 2024, show the importance of economic ties woven over the years. On the one hand, French exports, mainly made up of industrial products, and on the other, Algerian imports, especially hydrocarbon, illustrate an interdependence that it would be risky to neglect.
French companies, while being essential partners for many Algerian projects, may suffer from a deterioration in the business climate. The challenges linked to the employment and economic stability of the two countries are all the more critical in a global context plagued by multiple crises, whether economic, health or climatic.
#### A collective and constructive reaction
Faced with this situation, the CCIAF calls for a general mobilization of economic actors. It encourages companies to emphasize the need to maintain constructive partnerships, essential not only for the preservation of Franco-Algerian relations, but also to guarantee jobs and investments on both sides of the Mediterranean.
This raises an issue in dialogue between Algerian and French companies, but also between governments. How can political leaders facilitate this dialogue to prevent unhappy tensions from compromising mutual opportunities? The challenge is there: finding communication routes that transcend political differences and that promote effective cooperation.
The recent cancellation by the Algerian Economic Renewal Council (CREA) of a meeting with MEDEF in France illustrates the fragility of relationships, but also raises another question. What strategy can Algerian economic actors develop to navigate this uncertain climate? Should the positions be more daring and proactive in order to restore the confidence necessary for the realization of important projects?
#### Conclusion: towards a constructive future
If the current crisis between France and Algeria seems to be marked by diplomatic escalations, it is essential to keep the importance of economic relations for the development of the two nations. History has shown that dialogue and cooperation are often the keys to overcome difficult periods. The CCIAF, by its call for concerted action, seems to wish that this crisis serves as a springboard for strengthening relationships, rather than decreasing them.
The future of Franco-Algerian relations will largely depend on the capacity of each, both at political and economic level, to promote a respectful and constructive exchange. What innovative solutions can be considered? How to reaffirm the desire for collaboration beyond temporary tensions? These are questions that will remain at the heart of the concerns of the actors concerned.