Algeria bids for WTO slot

Algeria will discuss customs tarrifs and investment law Algiers – Hocine Bousalah Algeria has submitted a “bold and comprehensive” bid for membership at the World Trade Organisation (WTO), ahead of the 12th round of multilateral talks in Geneva, according to Trade Minister Mustapha Benbada. Benbada told a press conference on Sunday the latest talks would be “crucial” and would be followed by bilateral talks with Malaysia, Indonesia, New Zealand and a host of other countries. Algeria looks set to sign agreements with Venezuela and Argentina, adding to the seven deals previously signed with other WTO member states. Benbada hoped deepening ties would hasten Algeria’s application to join the global trade body. Talks will focus on issues surrounding customs tarrifs, import bans as well as Algeria’s new investment law, which dictates that Algerian capital must have a share in any foreign investments coming into the country.