The Algerian government has initiated a major phosphate project in Oued Kebrit, Souk Ahras province. Minister of State for Hydrocarbons, Mohamed Arkab, accompanied by Minister of Public Works and Basic Infrastructure, Abdelkader Djellaoui, and Minister of Mines and Mining Industry, Mourad Hanifi, attended the ceremony. The project is part of the integrated phosphate project, which covers the provinces of Annaba, Souk Ahras, Tébessa, and Bir El Ater.
The complex will have various industrial units for producing phosphate and nitrogen-based fertilizers, including urea, as well as intermediate chemicals such as sulfuric acid, phosphoric acid, and ammonia. Italian company SAIPEM will lead the construction under the EPC Fast Track mode, which aims to reduce timelines and adhere to the set schedule. Algerian companies, including Sonatrach's subsidiaries, will also participate in the project.
The complex is expected to produce 2.4 million tons of phosphate-based fertilizers annually in its first phase, along with 570,000 tons of nitrogen-based fertilizers. The project will utilize enriched phosphate from the Bled El Hadba mining area and contribute to the valorization of Algeria's mineral resources. This will also help meet the needs of the national agricultural sector.
The project holds strategic importance as it aims to enhance food security, increase the value of national resources, and boost exports beyond the hydrocarbons sector. It is also expected to create direct and indirect jobs, stimulate local development, and transfer technology. The project will strengthen Algeria's industrial fabric and develop local competencies.
Minister Arkab emphasized the need for close coordination among concerned sectors and enterprises, monitoring progress, and adhering to deadlines. The ministerial delegation will inspect the progress of the integrated phosphate project in Tébessa and Bir El Ater provinces. On Wednesday, Arkab presided over the launch of port infrastructure works for the Annaba mineral quay project.
The Annaba port project is being implemented by the Chinese company China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) in partnership with Sonatrach. A joint Algerian-Chinese consortium, including CHEC, Cosider Travaux publics, and the National Mediterranean Maritime Works Company, will work on the port structures and facilities necessary for handling mineral and industrial products.
The phosphate project and related infrastructure developments reflect Algeria's efforts to diversify its economy, develop its industrial base, and capitalize on its natural resources. The successful implementation of these projects is expected to have a positive impact on the country's economic growth and employment opportunities.
Key points
- Algeria's phosphate project aims to produce 2.4 million tons of phosphate-based fertilizers annually.
- The project will create direct and indirect jobs and stimulate local development.
- The complex will utilize enriched phosphate from the Bled El Hadba mining area.
