Algeria has instructed urea producers to stop exporting the fertiliser to France, according to five diplomatic and industry sources cited by Reuters, in a further escalation of trade restrictions linked to deteriorating relations between Algiers and Paris.
The move adds fertiliser to the growing list of commercial sectors potentially affected by the diplomatic dispute between the North African country and its former colonial ruler.
The directive follows an unofficial, near-blanket ban on imports of French goods introduced by Algeria in late July, according to six French and European diplomats.
Relations between the two countries deteriorated significantly in 2024 after French President Emmanuel Macron backed a plan for autonomy for Western Sahara under Moroccan sovereignty, a position that drew strong opposition from Algeria.
The latest development raises fresh concerns about the impact of diplomatic tensions on bilateral trade, agricultural supply chains and commercial relations between the two countries.
Source: Reuters
Reporting: Gus Trompiz and John Irish
