Archive · 18 Jun 2025
France Bans Algerian Spread: A Political and Trade Battle
Imagine a popular hazelnut spread from Algeria, like a cousin of Nutella, called El Mordjene.
France decided to ban it.
This made a lot of people in France angry, especially those with Algerian roots, who felt it was unfair.
The French government said it was because of rules about exporting dairy products, and maybe because they wanted to protect Nutella, which is made in France.
Some people think it is about racism.
This created a big debate about trade, history, and who belongs.
Now, people are fighting about the ban.
France banned El Mordjene, an Algerian hazelnut spread, sparking controversy.
French customs seized shipments, citing trademark infringement and dairy export restrictions.
The ban led to raids on shops and a black market for the spread.
The controversy sparked debates about colonialism, immigration, and protectionism.
El Mordjene's manufacturer stated the product uses French powdered milk.
- Who
- France and Cebon, the company which makes El Mordjene
- What
- France banned the import of Algerian hazelnut spread El Mordjene.
- When
- September
- Where
- France
- Why
- France cited trademark infringement and dairy export restrictions; others suggest protectionism and political motives.
Arguments Against the Ban
Arguments For the Ban
Colonialism and Immigration
Arguments Against the Ban
The ban is a form of discrimination against Muslim immigrants and Algerian-French communities.
Arguments For the Ban
The ban represents the takeover of traditional white France by Muslims from the Maghreb.
- Product Banned
- El Mordjene
- Country of Origin
- Algeria
- Reason for Ban (Official)
- Trademark infringement, dairy export restrictions
- Black Market Price
- Up to €30 per jar
- Manufacturer's Stance
- Unhappy, but won't contest the ban