The Government has recently completed the process of breaking up state agricultural co-operatives and turning the land over to its occupants. Minerals, principally iron ore and phosphates, are the other major export. The country's principal trading partners are France, Germany, Italy and Spain. From these, it imports most industrial equipment and consumer goods. Suits should always be worn in winter months, shirt sleeves during the summer.
Prior appointments are necessary for larger business firms.
Businessmen generally speak Arabic or French and, as a great deal of bargaining is necessary, it is rarely convenient to carry out transactions through an interpreter. Patience is always important. Visitors are usually entertained in hotels or restaurants, where Algerian businessmen are seldom accompanied by their wives. Only rarely are visitors entertained at home.