Algeria is intensifying its economic and energy ties with Spain, seeking to secure strategic interests amid a deterioration of its relations with France.
The shift reflects a deliberate choice to diversify Algeria’s European partnerships and reduce dependence on Paris.
Trade between Algeria and Spain has seen a marked revival. Spanish exports to Algiers reached €900 million in the first five months of 2025, representing a 162% increase compared to the same period in 2024.
Djamel Eddine Bouabdallah, president of the Hispanic-Algerian Trade and Industry Circle (CCIAE), told TSA that these exchanges are gradually returning to pre-diplomatic-crisis levels.
Energy cooperation is at the heart of this renewed partnership. Algerian gas supplied between 26% and 30% of Spain’s needs in June through the Medgaz pipeline.
For Spain, the arrangement is a key step in diversifying energy sources, while Algeria benefits from a stable European client less exposed to political tensions than France.
The move comes against a backdrop of fragile Franco-Algerian relations.
Disputes over Morocco’s position on Western Sahara, reciprocal diplomatic expulsions, and tightened visa requirements have fueled mistrust, exposing Algeria’s economic and political reliance on Paris.
Spain offers a combination of proximity, logistical ease, and political stability, making it an attractive alternative.
The framework enables smoother dialogue and stronger cooperation in both energy and industry.
Imports of equipment and raw materials for the ceramics sector alone reached €44.6 million in the first five months of 2025, highlighting Spain’s role beyond energy.
This strategic realignment underscores Algeria’s intent to shield its economic and industrial interests from geopolitical volatility.
By strengthening relations with Madrid, Algiers is diversifying its European engagements and ensuring a more resilient partnership in a context of diplomatic uncertainty with France.
The development signals a broader recalibration of Algeria’s foreign policy in Europe, where Spain is emerging as a privileged interlocutor capable of supporting the country’s long-term economic and energy ambitions.
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