The port of Djen Djen in Jijel, Algeria, has achieved a record-breaking feat by exporting 18,975 tonnes of Cold Direct Reduced Iron (C-DRI) to Germany within a 24-hour period. This remarkable accomplishment was made possible through the coordinated efforts of the port's authorities, shipping company MED INTERNATIONAL HOLDING SPA, and the vessel BULK PRUDENCE. The cargo was transported to the HANSAPORT terminal in Hamburg, Germany.
The export operation was part of a larger shipment of 50,000 tonnes of C-DRI that began on November 2, 2026. The port of Djen Djen's efficiency in handling large volumes of cargo quickly has been attributed to its state-of-the-art facilities, seamless communication among stakeholders, and skilled personnel. This achievement showcases the port's capabilities in meeting the demands of international clients, particularly those in the European market.
C-DRI, or cold-reduced iron, is a highly sought-after intermediate product in the steel industry, particularly among European steelmakers. The successful export of this product to Germany highlights the growing demand for Algerian production in high-quality and time-sensitive markets. The port of Djen Djen's ability to cater to these requirements further solidifies its position as a key player in the region's maritime trade.
The port of Djen Djen's record-breaking performance is part of a larger trend of Algerian ports increasing their non-hydrocarbon exports. Recently, the ports of Skikda and Chlef have also seen significant activity, with Skikda handling simultaneous shipments of cement and clinker to Italy and Libya, while Chlef's port in Ténès exported 15,000 tonnes of cement and clinker to Europe in September.
The port of Annaba has also made notable strides in expanding its export capabilities, with a recent shipment of 26,000 tonnes of packaged cement to the US market. This development underscores the growing diversification of Algerian exports and the country's efforts to tap into new markets. The Algerian port sector's growth is crucial in driving the country's economic expansion and reducing its reliance on hydrocarbon exports.
The port of Djen Djen's strategic location and deep water draft make it an attractive hub for large-scale cargo operations. Its storage capacity and handling capabilities position it as a critical gateway for Algerian goods entering the international market. To sustain its growth, the port must focus on maintaining regularity in its operations, ensuring reliable shipping schedules, and providing efficient services to foreign clients.
As the Algerian port sector continues to evolve, its ability to handle large volumes of cargo efficiently will be crucial in driving economic growth and competing with other Mediterranean ports. The record-breaking export from the port of Djen Djen serves as a testament to the country's potential in the maritime trade sector, and it will be essential to build on this momentum to achieve long-term success.
Key points
- The port of Djen Djen exported 18,975 tonnes of C-DRI to Germany within 24 hours.
- The Algerian port sector is increasing its non-hydrocarbon exports, with multiple ports handling significant cargo volumes.
- The port of Djen Djen's strategic location and capabilities make it an attractive hub for large-scale cargo operations.
