U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau Visits Algeria to Bolster Security and Trade Ties
Image: Rass El Mal
Takeaway
Christopher Landau's visit signals a potential increase in U.S. investment in Algeria, particularly in non-hydrocarbon sectors like renewable energy. Investors should monitor upcoming announcements regarding potential bilateral investment treaties, as these could significantly improve the investment climate. Increased U.S.-Algeria cooperation in the Sahel region could also stabilize regional supply chains, benefiting companies operating in North Africa.
U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau is visiting Algeria from April 27 to May 1, 2026, as part of a North African tour that also includes Morocco. Landau, who was sworn in as the 23rd Deputy Secretary of State on March 25, 2025, will meet with Algerian officials to discuss strengthening bilateral relations, with a focus on security cooperation and expanding investment opportunities. This visit follows Massad Boulos, special advisor to President Donald Trump for Africa and the Middle East's visit in late January 2026.
This visit underscores the growing strategic partnership between the United States and Algeria, particularly in counterterrorism efforts and regional stability. The United States established diplomatic relations with Algeria in 1962, following Algeria's independence from France. While relations were severed in 1967, they were re-established in 1974. In July 2001, Algeria's President Abdelaziz Bouteflika became the first Algerian President to visit the White House since 1985. Since the September 11 attacks, cooperation has intensified in key areas of mutual concern, including law enforcement and counter-terrorism. On January 22, 2025, U.S. Marine Corps Gen Michael Langley, Commander of U.S. Africa Command, signed a Military Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Algerian General Saïd Chanegriha.
The United States is one of Algeria's top trading partners. In 2025, U.S. goods exports to Algeria were $1.3 billion, a 25.2 percent ($255.6 million) increase from 2024. U.S. goods imports from Algeria totaled $2.2 billion in 2025, down 9.1 percent ($222.8 million) from 2024. The U.S. goods trade deficit with Algeria was $969.4 million in 2025, a 33 percent decrease ($478.4 million) over 2024. U.S. total services trade with Algeria totaled an estimated $468 million in 2024. The two countries signed a Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA), providing a platform to address impediments in the economic relationship.
Deputy Secretary Landau's visit is expected to benefit U.S. companies seeking to invest in Algeria's diversifying economy, particularly in sectors beyond hydrocarbons, such as renewable energy. It may also lead to increased cooperation in addressing security challenges in the Sahel region, potentially impacting regional supply chains and trade flows. The U.S. has been supporting Algeria's economic reform program, including support for World Trade Organization accession negotiations. As of 2024, the United States was the top source of stock Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into Algeria, providing 29 percent of total FDI.
Looking ahead, further discussions are anticipated regarding potential bilateral investment treaties and free-trade agreements. The sixth U.S.-Algeria Strategic Dialogue took place in October 2023, and a Joint Military Dialogue occurred in December 2023. Any progress on these fronts will be closely watched by international investors and policy analysts. The U.S. goods trade deficit with Algeria was $969.4 million in 2025, a 33 percent decrease ($478.4 million) over 2024.