The Algerian government has officially launched the construction of a phosphate enrichment and transformation plant in Bled El Hadba, in the east of the country. The project, which aims to add value to the country's phosphate resources, was launched in the presence of several high-ranking officials, including Minister of State for Hydrocarbons Mohamed Arkab and Minister of Mines and Mining Industry Mourad Hanifi. The plant will have a capacity to extract 10.5 million tonnes of phosphate per year.
The Bled El Hadba site is considered a key part of the integrated phosphate project, with significant phosphate reserves in the region. The project aims to enrich the phosphate before transporting it to chemical transformation units in Oued Keberit. The plant will produce 5.5 million tonnes of enriched phosphate per year, which can be commercialized, and 3.2 million tonnes of concentrated phosphate per year. This will provide the necessary raw materials for the Oued Keberit chemical transformation complex.
The project is part of a broader vision to develop the country's mining sector and create an integrated industrial chain. The government aims to move beyond simple extraction of raw materials and create a complete industrial chain that includes enrichment, transformation, and production of fertilizers and chemicals. This chain will be connected through a network of transport and port infrastructure.
The development of the Bled El Hadba pole is expected to have a significant impact on the country's economy and food security. The project will contribute to the production of fertilizers for the agricultural sector, increase the value added of national resources, and boost non-hydrocarbon exports. It will also create direct and indirect jobs, promote technology transfer, and develop local skills.
The project is part of a series of efforts to develop the country's phosphate sector. In November 2024, Minister of State for Hydrocarbons Mohamed Arkab visited the Bled El Hadba site and inspected the area where the enrichment plant will be built. During the visit, he emphasized the need to accelerate the project's implementation to ensure the production of enriched phosphate within the set deadlines.
The integrated phosphate project is a major development for Algeria's mining sector. The project will enable the country to benefit from its phosphate resources and create a complete industrial chain. The government has emphasized the importance of developing the sector to boost economic growth and create jobs.
The launch of the Bled El Hadba project marks a significant milestone in the development of Algeria's phosphate sector. The project is expected to have a positive impact on the country's economy and food security, and will contribute to the growth of the mining sector. The government has confirmed that the project will be implemented in a timely manner to ensure the production of enriched phosphate.
Key points
- The project aims to produce 5.5 million tonnes of enriched phosphate per year and 3.2 million tonnes of concentrated phosphate per year.
- The development of the Bled El Hadba pole is part of a broader vision to create an integrated industrial chain in the mining sector.
- The project is expected to create direct and indirect jobs, promote technology transfer, and develop local skills.
