Law establishing the general rules relating to post and electronic communications | Algeria

The ‘Loi n° 18-04 du 24 Chaâbane 1439’ of 10 May 2018, establishes comprehensive regulations regarding postal services and electronic communications in Algeria. Its primary objectives include defining the general conditions under which postal and electronic communication services can be developed and offered in a competitive environment while ensuring transparency, fairness, and the general interest. The law also aims to promote the usage and development of electronic communications, define operational standards for service providers, and set regulatory frameworks for these sectors.

The legislation delineates several significant areas. It establishes the responsibilities of the state in overseeing postal and communication services, ensuring service continuity, security, and respect for public morality. Additionally, the law introduces a regulatory authority responsible for managing the postal and electronic communications market. This authority is tasked with fostering competition, overseeing frequency assignments, approving network interconnections, issuing operational authorisations, and resolving disputes between operators and customers.

A key section addresses the universal service obligation, mandating that basic postal and communication services be accessible to all nationwide at affordable rates. The law mandates the creation of a universal service fund to support this goal, managed by a multi-sector commission.

The law differentiates between various regulatory regimes for postal services. Certain services, such as the issuance of postal stamps and postal money orders, are under an exclusivity regime managed by Algeria Post, while other services may require specific authorisations or merely a declaration to the regulatory authority.

The law also details operational rules for postal transactions, from the management of registered parcels and insured shipments to the use and handling of postal checks. It imposes stringent requirements on service quality, customer rights protection, and penalties for service providers that fail to comply with regulatory conditions.

In terms of electronic communications, the law covers the assignment and management of radio frequencies, cybersecurity measures, and obligations regarding data confidentiality. It introduces frameworks for interconnection and co-location among operators to facilitate effective communication infrastructure and services.