Summary:

On 28 May 2025, French News websites including ‘L’Express’ and ‘Le Journal Du Dimanche’ reported that the French government is seriously considering freezing assets of twenty senior Algerian officials who hold properties on the French soil.   

A list of around twenty names has been compiled by both France’s Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Interior, which contained individuals holding key positions in the Algerian administration, security apparatus, and political system, while also owning properties or financial assets in France. The potential sanctions are reportedly being considered as a response to Algiers’ refusal to take back several of its nationals under an obligation to leave French territory. 

It is noteworthy that France’s Minister of Interior, Bruno Retailleau, mentioned in March that his country is aiming to use a “graduated response” against the Algerian authorities, starting with restrictions on visas and entry into French territory. 

The diplomatic tensions between Algeria and France have also affected economic and trade partnerships between the two countries. According to ‘Le Progrès’, France exports of young cattle to Algeria have been completely suspended, although the measure has not yet been officially announced. However, this economic tension between the two countries is not unprecedented. In September 2023, Algiers imposed a suspension of imports of French durum wheat, citing quality problems and price differences. 

France, for its part, has also undertaken measures to undermine bilateral relations with Algeria. In April, the Algerian Economic Renewal Council cited that French authorities strongly advised Rodolphe Saade, chairman of maritime transport company CMA-CMG, not to travel to Algeria for investment meetings, causing the Council to abruptly cancel its meeting with the Mouvement des Entreprises de France (MEDEF), a French employers’ federation. 

Outlook: 

While shortly restored in April, diplomatic relations between France and Algeria are likely to further deteriorate, as both sides have already taken measures that exacerbate tensions.  

France’s decision to freeze assets of Algerian officials could be a sign of further escalation, deepening the existing mistrust and hostility. This may further deteriorate Algeria’s image on the regional and international stage.  

Economically, the growing diplomatic rift between Paris and Algiers is also reflected in their economic ties, which could impact their trade and investment partnerships. For Algeria, deteriorating economic relations with France may signal a shift away from its traditional economic partner, and be further motivation to diversify its economic partnerships with other countries such as Türkiye and China.  

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