A new stage in the decline of French within Algerian institutions. The Directorate General of Taxes (DGI) has decided to impose the exclusive use of the Arabic language in all official correspondence in the Finance sector, reports TSA. The measure came into force on February 1. In a note addressed to heads of departments, central managers, regional directors, tax service inspectors and heads of information centers, the DGI specifies that, “in accordance with the instructions of the Minister of Finance, the official language will be mandatory in all correspondence issued by the finance sector, in all its forms”.
The generalization of Arabic will have to be done “in a standardized manner”. The note goes so far as to specify the font to be used: Calibri, size 16. Recipients are asked to “strictly apply the Minister’s instructions and comply fully” to the new rules, while pointing out possible difficulties of execution.
French, hunted everywhere
This decision is part of a broader movement. In recent months, several public companies and institutions have opted for the generalization of Arabic and the reduction, or even abandonment, of French. In January, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development had already issued a note to this effect. Algérie Télécom, Air Algérie and Sonelgaz have also drastically reduced the use of French in their communications, while strengthening Arabic and introducing more English as a second language.
The movement also affects higher education. The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research has noted the abandonment of French in medical sectors in favor of English from September 2025. A development presented as strategic, in a context of tense diplomatic relations between Algiers and Paris. From tax administration to universities, including public companies, French is gradually declining in favor of Arabic and, increasingly, English.
