More Belt-Tightening Ahead for AlgeriaAlgeria continues to seek cost containment measures, with growing expectation of fuel price increases in 2017 aimed at reducing the projected budget deficit of $2.6 billion. There is also pressure on the government to freeze all expanses over the next three years. So much so that many local governments have been unable to pay their basic utility bills. This week for instance, state-owned power company Sonelgaz went as far as shutting down power supply to eight municipalities in Bouira because of unpaid bills. The source suggests that the government is planning on freezing all expenses in 2018 and 2019.

Source: The North Africa Journal October 02, 2016 16:41 UTC