Algeria prohibits imports of used clothing to save local industry

Algeria bans the import of used clothes to save domestic businesses.

Algeria’s parliament has adopted the 2012 fiscal law, which prohibits the import of second-hand clothing. It aims to protect the country’s textile and garment manufacturing industry, prevent the risks brought by old clothes, and protect public health.

The latest measures may affect about 25,000 people involved in the second-hand clothing trade in Algeria.

The president of the Apparel Importers Association said that the new law will also affect thousands of civilians who cannot afford new clothes and can only choose to buy used clothing, because the price of used clothing is appropriate.

At the same time, the old clothing retailers’ association counters the view that old clothes carry risks. They said that importers bought the latest old clothes processing machines that would eliminate the risk of disease or contamination.

On the Other hand, the National Federation of Textile and Leather Workers defended the government's measures. They said that the first step should be to promote the development of the national textile industry and provide the textile industry with a thriving opportunity.

Algeria has 146 used clothing importers and 3,000 wholesalers. In addition, there are thousands of people engaged in direct and indirect second-hand clothing business. These people plan to hold national demonstrations in the next few days.

In Algeria, the sale of used clothing is booming, so traders are also shocked and dissatisfied with the government's decision. They say that sales are booming because second-hand clothing not only attracts poor people but also attracts middle-class consumers. They find some favorite clothes in the second hand, otherwise they will find it difficult to buy favorite clothes in shops that sell new clothes. clothing.

Finance Minister Karim Djoudi said that the consolidation of the domestic textile industry will cost Algeria 600 billion and will now need to create added value, even if it expands imports.