Skikda, Algeria – The Port of Skikda has resumed operations for gasoline tankers after a nearly ten-year suspension. The port welcomed the tanker “KINEST” at berth P1 in the old port area early Wednesday morning.
The reopening follows extensive rehabilitation work aimed at modernizing the facility and enabling it to handle gasoline shipments destined for various Algerian and international ports. The P1 berth is specifically designed to accommodate vessels in challenging weather conditions.
According to a statement released by the Port of Skikda, the berth can handle ships with a capacity of up to 35,000 tons, a maximum length of 195 meters, and a draft not exceeding 13 meters. This capacity makes it a vital asset for Algeria’s energy export infrastructure.
The last docking operation at the P1 berth occurred on February 1, 2016. The subsequent closure was attributed to technical and logistical challenges. The rehabilitation project is now complete.
Port authorities anticipate that the upgraded P1 berth will significantly boost gasoline exports from Skikda to numerous destinations. Further tanker arrivals are expected in the coming weeks, solidifying Skikda’s role as a key player in the regional energy market. This reopening marks a significant step forward for the port and the Algerian economy.
