International Agreements between Italy and Algeria

Italy and Algeria maintain a longstanding diplomatic relationship that began shortly after Algeria's independence in 1962. The two countries share a common geographical space that has fostered growing cooperation over the years, strengthened by converging interests in the fields of energy, economics, and migration. Italy has long been, and continues to be, one of Algeria’s key European partners—not only due to its historic collaboration in the hydrocarbons sector, but also through continuous political dialogue and joint efforts in infrastructure, education, and culture.

Over the years, the two states have signed a number of bilateral agreements covering areas of fundamental importance for strengthening institutional and economic ties. In addition to these bilateral treaties, both Italy and Algeria are parties to relevant multilateral conventions that enhance legal certainty, promote economic cooperation, and enable mutual recognition of civil and commercial decisions.

Below is a list of the main bilateral agreements between Italy and Algeria, as well as key multilateral conventions to which both countries are signatories, of particular relevance to operators and institutions engaged in cross-border relations between the two legal systems.

 

Bilateral Agreements

Agreement between the Government of the Italian Republic and the Government of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria on the Promotion and Protection of Investments (1991)
Signed in Rome on 18 May 1991 and entered into force on 26 November 1993, the agreement aimed to establish a stable and favorable legal framework for mutual investment between the two countries. It provided, among other things, fair and non-discriminatory treatment of investors, protection against unjustified expropriation, free transfer of capital, and access to international dispute resolution mechanisms, including the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID). The treaty remained in force until 26 November 2013, when it was terminated by Algeria.
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Convention for the Avoidance of Double Taxation with Respect to Taxes on Income and the Prevention of Fiscal Evasion (1991)
Signed on 3 February 1991 and entered into force on 20 July of the same year, the convention aims to eliminate double taxation on income generated in both countries and to foster administrative cooperation between tax authorities. The agreement clearly regulates taxing rights over various categories of income (employment, business profits, dividends, interest, royalties), using residence and source criteria, and includes mechanisms for dispute resolution and exchange of information to combat tax avoidance and evasion.
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Agreement on International Road Transport of Passengers, Goods, and Transit (2005)
Signed in Algiers on 27 January 2005, this agreement governs the international transport of goods and passengers by road between the two countries. It sets out rules on market access, issuance of transport permits, regulation of regular and occasional services, and cooperation between competent authorities in inspections and road safety. The agreement facilitates logistical and commercial flows between Italy and Algeria, enhancing infrastructural connectivity and business mobility.
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Convention on Judicial Assistance in Civil and Commercial Matters (2006)
Signed in Algiers on 13 December 2006, this bilateral convention establishes a framework for judicial cooperation between the two legal systems in civil and commercial matters. It covers the transmission and service of documents, the taking of evidence, the hearing of witnesses and experts, and the recognition and enforcement of judicial decisions. The agreement aims to simplify legal relations between citizens and businesses in both countries, ensuring legal certainty and protection of individual rights.
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Cooperation Agreement in the Maritime Transport Sector (2018)
Signed on 2 March 2018, this agreement seeks to promote and develop cooperation in maritime transport, with a particular focus on collaboration between port authorities, facilitation of trade flows, and navigation safety. It also includes provisions for technical assistance, information exchange, and cooperation in maritime training.
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