The Algerian government has allocated 25 billion centimes to revamp the Beni Mansour industrial zone in Béjaïa province. This move aims to revitalize the region's economy, which has been struggling due to a lack of industrial land. Many businesses have relocated to other areas with more favorable business climates. The development project is expected to create thousands of jobs and stimulate economic growth. According to the Béjaïa province communication cell, the funds will be used to upgrade the industrial zone.
The Beni Mansour industrial zone, spanning 175 hectares, is strategically located near the East-West highway, the Béjaïa-Ahnif highway, and the railway line. This proximity will enable businesses to quickly transport goods to the Beni Mansour railway station, which is close to National Roads 26 and 05 and the CW A42 road. The zone is expected to become a hub for industries, taking advantage of Béjaïa's existing agro-food industry, one of the largest in Algeria. The zone will provide opportunities for businesses to expand and create new jobs.
The development project was discussed during a working session presided over by the wali (governor) of Béjaïa, attended by executive directors and members of the provincial study bureau. The wali emphasized the need to accelerate the expropriation procedure for affected landowners and launch tenders for the site's development. The project must be completed within four months, and the wali has insisted on selecting high-performance companies to carry out the work.
Béjaïa province is home to the Akbou ZAC, a significant agro-food industry hub that provides thousands of jobs annually. The province has a strong potential for growth, with opportunities in tourism, agriculture, fishing, industry, and mining. However, the current business climate is considered unfavorable due to the lack of industrial land and slow decision-making processes. The development of the Beni Mansour industrial zone is expected to address these issues.
In 2013, Sonatrach officials presented a project to build a petrochemical complex in Beni Mansour, which would have created 5,000 direct jobs. The complex was planned to be operational by 2018 and would have processed raw materials based on liquefied petroleum gas. Although the project's status is unclear, the development of the industrial zone may revive interest in such projects.
Local stakeholders believe that the business climate in Béjaïa remains challenging due to the lack of viable industrial zones and inefficient decision-making processes. The province needs to create new activity zones and rehabilitate existing ones to attract private investment. The government must encourage potential investors to participate in the region's economic development by creating activities aligned with national and local strategies.
The development of the Beni Mansour industrial zone is a crucial step towards revitalizing Béjaïa's economy. With the allocated funds and the expected completion of the project within four months, the province may finally see an influx of investment and job creation. The success of this project will depend on the government's ability to create a favorable business climate and attract private investors to the region.
Key points
- Algeria's government allocates 25 billion centimes to develop the Beni Mansour industrial zone in Béjaïa province.
