Since the independence of Algeria, the organization and proceeds of lotteries have been governed by national law. Under Loi n° 62-157 du 31 décembre 1962, the use of revenue from games, pari mutuel, and lotteries is regulated to benefit public welfare projects, with penalties for unauthorized operations (1).
Gambling activities outside these provisions are generally prohibited under the Penal Code unless explicitly authorized. Specific lotteries may be held only by associations or public bodies after obtaining interministerial approval from the Ministry of the Interior and the Ministry of Finance (2).
"L'autorisation d'organiser une loterie d'objets mobiliers est donnée : 1° par le chef de daïra si le capital nominal de la loterie envisagée n'excède pas un seuil fixé par décret ; 2° par arrêté interministériel pour les cas supérieurs."
Today, individuals may legally purchase lottery tickets only through outlets designated by the relevant decrees. Unauthorized ticket sales remain subject to criminal sanctions, reinforcing the state’s exclusive control over lottery operations.
Source:
https://www.joradp.dz/FTP/jo-francais/1963/F1963002.PDF
https://www.joradp.dz/FTP/jo-francais/1977/F1977017.PDF
Last updated: 20-05-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
