In fact, Algeria's generics market is relatively advanced, having been stimulated by the government's encouragement, lax intellectual property (IP) laws and the fact that public expenditure represents some 80% of total healthcare spending. In 2008, the country's generics market was valued at an estimated DZD60.6bn (US$0.89bn), accounting for just over 38% of the total market by value, and up to two-thirds by volume terms. The requirement that generics account for 45% of all imports will support generics development over the longer term, especially as the longer-term target is the figure of 70%. Additionally, promoters of generics and local industry recently suggested that the social security should issue rebates to those using generic drugs. If implemented, the proposals have the potential to increase the penetration of generics to higher than forecast over the coming years, although low prices of such products will depress value growth.

In July 2009, the government reported that it would import 65mn swine influenza vaccines, with the Minister of Health adding that all of the seven cases of the virus diagnosed in the country were visitors from abroad. The vaccine for the A (H1N1) virus will be available free of charge, with Algeria judged by the government to be well-prepared for this eventuality. However, local press did not make it clear from where the vaccine would be imported, with many European countries recently announcing that they are likely to fast-track human trials for swine flu vaccine.

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