Riad Beladi, a well-known British-Algerian marketeer with a rich history of promoting food products and regions to global retailers, has recently turned down a contract offer from a prominent Moroccan company. Beladi, who previously worked with the California Department of Agriculture to market California produce worldwide, declined to specify the reasons behind his decision. However, his actions have stirred discussions regarding the influence of political ties on business relationships, especially between Algeria and Morocco.
When asked about his decision, Beladi pointed to the complex political landscape between the two North African nations. “If you have a political issue or problem, it’s not just with one person, it’s with all Algerian people, both inside and outside the country,” Beladi remarked. His refusal to engage with Moroccan businesses appears to stem from the strained relations between the two countries rather than any professional disagreement.
Beladi, who has worked in Morocco during periods of better diplomatic relations between Algeria and Morocco, expressed his hope for future reconciliation. “I hope Algeria and Morocco will sit down at the table and sort out their problems,” he said. Despite his decision to decline the recent contract, he spoke highly of his past collaborations with Moroccan companies, describing Moroccan executives as productive, with a deep understanding of marketing. He also praised the Moroccan government’s initiatives to promote local products abroad, calling it a pleasure to work with such organizations.
However, for now, Beladi’s stance reflects a broader sentiment among Algerians who feel a deep connection to their homeland, and his decision serves as a reminder of how political tensions can impact business on an international scale.
