ALNAFT, the National Agency for the Valorization of Hydrocarbon Resources, has announced the launch of a new digital platform aimed at gauging interest from oil companies looking to invest in Algeria. This initiative precedes the highly anticipated ‘Algeria Bid Round 2026’ international tender.
Speaking at a press conference following a media day for journalists, ALNAFT’s President, Samir Bakhti, explained that the platform, dubbed the ‘Nomination Process,’ allows investors to select between six and eight exploration blocks from a pre-determined list of 24, distributed across various regions of the country.
Bakhti emphasized that the goal of this initiative is to proactively understand investor interests and prepare the international tender in a more targeted and effective manner. He affirmed that the evaluation of the blocks will be based on national priorities, geological potential, and the actual level of investor interest.
“This step represents a shift in ALNAFT’s approach from a unilateral logic to one that listens to partners, while fully preserving the state’s sovereignty over its mineral resources,” Bakhti stated.
The nomination process will remain open until the end of January 2026. ALNAFT will then evaluate the nominations and determine which blocks will be offered in the upcoming tender. This process marks a pivotal stage in promoting investment in the upstream hydrocarbon sector and fostering trust and transparency.
Algeria aims to increase its hydrocarbon production capacity in anticipation of the expected rise in global gas demand, projected to reach 5300 billion cubic meters annually. Bakhti also highlighted the importance of exploiting unconventional gas resources, noting the availability of over 700 billion cubic feet (approximately 19,800 billion cubic meters) of recoverable resources, while adhering to all legal and environmental requirements.
This announcement was made during a media day organized by ALNAFT, which focused on presenting the agency’s role and responsibilities, and clarifying the institutional and legal framework for regulating the hydrocarbon sector in Algeria.
This initiative underscores Algeria’s commitment to attracting foreign investment and optimizing its hydrocarbon resources.
