The Algerian government has officially launched the construction of a giant phosphate complex in Souk Ahras, marking a significant milestone in the country's mining sector. The project, which includes the exploitation of the phosphate deposit in Tébessa, the realization of a transformation complex, and a railway line to the port of Annaba, is expected to boost the country's economy. The complex will be built by Italian company Saipem under the EPC Fast Track model.
The phosphate complex will have a production capacity of 2.4 million tonnes per year of phosphated fertilizers and 570,000 tonnes of nitrogenous fertilizers. The project also includes the production of various chemical intermediates, such as sulfuric acid, phosphoric acid, and ammonia. The complex will comprise several industrial units producing different types of fertilizers, including DAP, MAP, and NPK.
The project was launched in the presence of several high-ranking officials, including Minister of Mines and Mining Industries Mourad Hanafi, Minister of Public Works and Basic Infrastructure Abdelkader Djelaoui, and the Wali of Souk Ahras. The project is considered a crucial link in the industrial chain of the integrated phosphate project, which aims to maximize the value of Algeria's phosphate resources.
The construction of the complex will be carried out in partnership with several subsidiaries of Sonatrach, including SARPI, GCB, and GTP. The EPC Fast Track model will be used to accelerate the construction process and ensure that the project is completed within the scheduled timeframe. The project is expected to create new job opportunities and contribute to the country's economic growth.
The phosphate complex is part of Algeria's efforts to diversify its economy and reduce its dependence on hydrocarbons. The project follows the launch of other major mining projects, including the exploitation of iron ore in Gara Djebilet and zinc-lead in Béjaïa. The government aims to develop the country's mining sector and increase its contribution to GDP.
The project will also involve the construction of a new railway line to the port of Annaba, where a mining quay is currently under construction. The complex will be equipped with state-of-the-art technology and will adhere to international environmental and safety standards. Once completed, the complex is expected to play a significant role in Algeria's agricultural sector by providing high-quality fertilizers to local farmers.
Key points
- The phosphate complex project aims to produce 2.4 million tonnes of phosphated fertilizers and 570,000 tonnes of nitrogenous fertilizers annually.
- The project is being carried out by Italian company Saipem under the EPC Fast Track model.
- The complex will create new job opportunities and contribute to Algeria's economic growth.
