Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline: Algeria has officially started construction on its section of the 4,128-km Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline, aimed at moving up to 30 bcm of Nigerian gas annually through Niger to Algeria’s Hassi R’Mel hub for export to Europe—an energy bet on reducing reliance on Russian supplies. Energy Markets: A separate global squeeze is tightening helium availability after QatarEnergy halted output following Iranian missile strikes on Ras Laffan, pushing spot prices up and highlighting how Algeria’s “modest” helium role still matters in a market dominated by a few producers. World Cup Economy (Algeria): Ticket resale data for Arab teams puts Algeria among the higher-priced markets, with average resale around $395 for Algeria matches—showing strong demand as the tournament expands to 48 teams. Labor & Trade Climate: Morocco’s restrictive strike law has drawn criticism in the ITUC Global Rights Index, a reminder that labor rules and social dialogue can quickly affect business risk across the Maghreb. Human Cost in the Region: Reports say nearly 50 migrants died of thirst in Niger’s Sahara after a truck broke down near the Niger–Algeria border, underscoring the risks tied to regional transport routes.