Algeria is poised to launch a new mobile payment system in January 2025, marking a significant step in its digital transformation journey. This initiative, announced by Mohand Bourai, President of the Association of Banks and Financial Institutions (ABEF), aims to modernize the country’s payment ecosystem and promote financial inclusion.
The mobile payment system will allow Algerians to conduct secure financial transactions through their smartphones, offering features such as QR code payments for added convenience and security. This initiative aligns with Algeria’s objectives of promoting digitalization and simplifying daily transactions for both individuals and merchants.
“The system aligned with Algeria’s objectives of promoting financial inclusion and digitalisation, aiming to simplify daily transactions for individuals and merchants,” stated the report, highlighting the government’s focus on digital advancement.
The National Bank of Algeria (BNA), Al Salam Bank Algeria, and Algeria Post are leading the efforts to provide these mobile-based payment services. The service will be available to all mobile banking users and will be free of charge for both users and merchants, encouraging widespread adoption and contributing to the growth of a cashless society.
Algeria’s mobile payment ecosystem has been steadily growing, with 2025 marked as a pivotal year for modernization. The launch of the Switch Mobile platform in June 2024 enhanced interoperability across different banks, facilitating seamless mobile payments.
“Algeria’s mobile payment ecosystem saw steady growth, with 2025 marked as a crucial year for modernization,” stated the report, emphasizing the ongoing development of the country’s digital infrastructure.
By October 2024, Algeria had already recorded a significant increase in electronic payments, with over 14.8 million online transactions and more than 75 million smartphone-based transactions. The launch of the new mobile payment system is expected to further accelerate this trend and contribute to the growth of Algeria’s digital economy.