The use of electronic payments in Algeria continues to grow, with a notable increase in the number of payment cards, electronic payment terminals (TPEs), and online commerce platforms. According to data from the Economic Interest Grouping for Monetary Affairs (GIE Monétique), between December 2025 and August 2026, the number of payment cards in circulation rose to nearly 23 million, representing an 8% increase. This growth is largely attributed to Algérie Poste, which has approximately 19 million Edahabia cards, and banks, which have over 4 million interbank CIB cards.
A significant proportion of these cards, over 62%, are active and being used by their holders. However, the majority of transactions still involve cash withdrawals from automated teller machines (ATMs). Despite this, there has been a gradual shift towards electronic payments, with the percentage of payment transactions increasing from 10% to over 20%. The representative of GIE Monétique, Aboubakr Belloul, highlighted that this evolution in payment habits is a positive trend for the country's monetary landscape.
The expansion of electronic payment networks in commercial establishments has also been notable. The number of TPEs increased from 78,000 in December 2025 to 126,000 in August 2026. This growth in TPEs has been accompanied by a significant rise in their usage, with the value of transactions conducted through these terminals increasing by 165% during the same period. This development is largely driven by the increasing number of merchants and service providers offering card payment options to their customers.
The e-commerce sector has also seen substantial growth, with the number of accredited web merchants rising from 644 in December 2025 to 1034 in August 2026, representing a 68% increase. These online merchants offer a range of services, including ticketing, utility bill payments, insurance, and certain large-scale distribution services. The GIE Monétique forecasts a 200% increase in the value of online transactions for 2026 compared to 2025.
Despite this progress, several factors continue to hinder the widespread adoption of electronic payments. These include consumer and merchant concerns about security, as well as issues related to traceability and transparency. According to Belloul, some merchants are hesitant due to the perceived loss of control over transactions and the potential for detailed tracking of sales. On the consumer side, a lack of trust in electronic payment systems remains a significant barrier.
The GIE Monétique has identified that security concerns and a lack of confidence in electronic payments are key issues that need to be addressed. For merchants, other concerns include the delay in receiving funds from instant transfers, which currently takes up to two days. However, Belloul notes that the system guarantees payment within this timeframe. Addressing these concerns will be crucial to further increasing the use of electronic payments in Algeria.
As the use of electronic payments continues to grow, it is likely that the infrastructure and services supporting these transactions will also expand. The Algerian government and financial institutions are working to promote electronic payments as a means of increasing financial inclusion and reducing the reliance on cash. With the continued growth of online platforms and payment systems, the country is moving towards a more digital financial landscape.
Key points
- The number of payment cards in circulation in Algeria has reached nearly 23 million, with over 62% of these cards being active.
- The value of transactions conducted through electronic payment terminals (TPEs) has increased by 165% between December 2025 and August 2026.
- The number of accredited web merchants in Algeria has risen by 68% between December 2025 and August 2026, reaching a total of 1034.
