The Port of Djen Djen in Jijel, Algeria, recently transshipped 537 coils of steel, weighing 5,700 tons, that arrived from China and were destined for Djibouti. This operation, which took place on September 20, 2026, marks the third transshipment of its kind at the port this year. The cargo was received on board the MV SEADANCE, a Maltese-flagged vessel, and was subsequently re-exported to its final destination.
The transshipment operation highlights the growing role of the Port of Djen Djen as a major logistical hub in the region. According to the Enterprise Portuaire de Djen Djen (EPDJ), the port's strategic location and modern infrastructure make it an ideal point for international trade. The EPDJ noted that the operation demonstrates the port's ability to handle large volumes of cargo and its capacity to integrate into international supply chains.
The Port of Djen Djen has been actively seeking to expand its services and increase its capacity to handle transshipment operations. In January 2026, the port handled its first transshipment operation, receiving 800 EVP of containers from China, of which 200 were re-exported to Russia. The EPDJ has also announced plans to further develop its infrastructure, including the construction of new terminals and the expansion of its container handling capacity.
The EPDJ has invested heavily in modernizing its facilities and equipment to accommodate larger vessels and increased cargo volumes. In November 2024, the port welcomed the MSC Tamara, a 265-meter-long container ship, which marked a first for the Algerian port sector. The port has also received other large vessels, including the Istanbul Bridge, a 294-meter-long container ship, which was described as the largest vessel to have ever docked at an Algerian port.
The Algerian government has been actively promoting the development of the country's port sector, with a focus on increasing efficiency and competitiveness. The Ministry of Interior, Local Authorities, and Transport has identified transshipment as a key area for growth, with the aim of transforming Algerian ports into regional and international logistical platforms.
The Port of Djen Djen is also set to benefit from infrastructure development projects, including the construction of a new highway that will connect the port to the East-West highway. The project, which was launched in 2014, has faced several delays but is expected to be completed soon. The EPDJ has also introduced a new tariff system, which came into effect on August 16, 2026, and is expected to provide a more competitive and flexible pricing structure for operators.
The successful handling of the 5,700 tons of Chinese steel for Djibouti demonstrates the Port of Djen Djen's growing capabilities and its potential to become a major hub in the Mediterranean. With ongoing investments in infrastructure and equipment, the port is well-positioned to increase its market share and provide a range of services to international traders and logistics providers.
Key points
- The Port of Djen Djen has handled three transshipment operations in 2026, including the recent shipment of 5,700 tons of Chinese steel to Djibouti.
- The port's strategic location and modern infrastructure make it an ideal point for international trade and logistical operations.
- The Algerian government is actively promoting the development of the country's port sector, with a focus on increasing efficiency and competitiveness.
