On November 26th, 2024, the Export Club of the World Trade Center Algiers convened at the breathtaking Zibans Gardens in the historic city of Biskra for a pivotal meeting focused on alternative financing solutions and the region's economic development. The event brought together top business leaders, financiers, and regional stakeholders to discuss ways to foster growth in Algeria, with a particular emphasis on the role of leasing in financing business ventures.
Alternative Financing Through Leasing: Insights from Mr. Mohammed Nazim Bessayeh
The meeting featured a comprehensive presentation by Mr. Mohammed Nazim Bessayeh, Head of Financing at Société Générale Algeria, who is widely regarded as one of the most prominent and influential bankers in the country. Mr. Bessayeh’s extensive experience in the Algerian banking sector gave him a unique perspective on the potential of alternative financing methods. His in-depth discussion of leasing as an innovative financial instrument offered invaluable insights into how businesses can benefit from this model.
A notorious figure in Algeria’s banking world, Mr. Bessayeh has built a reputation for his expertise in financial strategies that cater to the needs of local businesses while aligning with international best practices. His presentation focused on how leasing could serve as an effective solution for businesses in Algeria, particularly in regions where access to traditional financing options is more limited. Leasing, he explained, allows companies to acquire assets without the heavy burden of upfront capital expenditures, thus enabling them to scale their operations more efficiently and manage cash flow better.
His remarks were particularly timely given Algeria’s current economic context, where non-traditional financing avenues are increasingly becoming key drivers of business development. The session sparked an engaging conversation about how leasing could become a central tool for entrepreneurs and companies looking to grow in Algeria’s evolving marketplace.
The Zibans Gardens Project: A Vision for Biskra’s Future
The event also showcased the ambitious Zibans Gardens Project, a transformative development that is set to make a lasting impact on the city of Biskra. Presented by Mr. Ali Serraoui, a major businessman and investor in the region, the Zibans Gardens Project aims to turn Biskra into a major economic hub in southern Algeria.
The project encompasses a wide range of world-class facilities, including luxury hotels and resorts, a shopping center, a tourism and cinema academy, and football training facilities. This landmark development is designed to position Biskra as a central point for tourism, leisure, and entertainment, contributing significantly to the diversification of the city’s economy.
Mr. Serraoui, who is known for his strategic investments in the region, emphasized the importance of such a large-scale project in stimulating the local economy, creating jobs, and attracting both domestic and international investors. The Zibans Gardens development is poised to provide a major boost to Biskra’s infrastructure, offering new opportunities for businesses and residents alike.
Mr. Ahmed Tibaoui’s Address: Emphasizing the Importance of Investment in Biskra
The event concluded with an inspiring address from Mr. Ahmed Tibaoui, CEO of the World Trade Center Algiers and a member of the World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) Board. Mr. Tibaoui expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the sponsors of the meeting, Société Générale and Aquapalm, for their continued support of the Export Club's initiatives. He acknowledged the significant role that these partnerships play in fostering a business-friendly environment across Algeria.
In his speech, Mr. Tibaoui underscored the strategic importance of investing in cities like Biskra, which offer a unique mix of untapped potential and favorable investment conditions. He highlighted the role of projects like Zibans Gardens in fostering regional economic development, creating jobs, and improving infrastructure. Mr. Tibaoui also stressed that such investments would contribute to Algeria’s broader efforts to diversify its economy and enhance its global competitiveness.
Conclusion: A Bright Future for Biskra and Algeria’s Business Landscape
The Export Club meeting at Zibans Gardens was a resounding success, providing valuable insights into alternative financing options and showcasing one of the most ambitious development projects in southern Algeria. As Biskra embarks on a new era of growth and investment, the collaboration between key business leaders, financial institutions like Société Générale, and regional stakeholders will be critical to realizing the city’s full potential.
With visionary leaders like MrAli SERRAOUI, the backing of significant projects like the Zibans Gardens development, and continued support from sponsors like Société Générale and Aquapalm, Biskra is poised to become a beacon of economic and cultural prosperity in southern Algeria. The Export Club's efforts to promote alternative financing models, such as leasing, are sure to play a pivotal role in this transformation, setting the stage for a dynamic and sustainable business landscape in the region.