Shabby clothes business is legal in Algeria, says minister

Algerian trade minister Hachemi Djaaboub defended shabby clothing markets in Algeria saying almost all the countries in the world including the developed ones deal with such business.

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• “Algeria has been dealing with shabby clothing markets since the 1990’s. An interministerial decision was taken then to protect public health from possible infections from the shabby clothes,” the minister told MPs.
• He also said the shabby clothes are treated by special rays before they are sold. They are cleaned by chemical substances in conformity with health standards.
• “Some shabby clothes are banned from import such us underwear and blankets.”
• The minister said the number of traders in the shabby clothing markets is estimated at 6,407. Of them, 3,800 importers, 240 wholesale traders and 2,500 retail dealers. The total number of Algerians working in this field reached 25,000.
• Shabby clothing activity in Algeria is on the rise. In 2008, sales were estimated at $13 million compared to $10 million in 2007.
• Djaaboub said 54 percent of the clothes are imported from Italy while 14 percent come from Switzerland followed by France by 5 percent and Germany by 4 percent. Clothes imported from Arab countries represent 1 percent.
• He also said the ministry conducted a study on the markets and presented a programme to the cabinet. “It is meant to rehabilitate the current markets and create whole sale trade places in conformity with modern standards.”
• He added that new facilities will help in keeping watch on the quality of products for sale and knowing the level of supply and demand.