Algiers, DZWatch – A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed today between Algeria’s SOMIFOS, a subsidiary of SONARAM Group, and Indonesia’s Pupuk Indonesia, marking a significant step towards potential collaboration in the phosphates sector.
The signing ceremony, held at the Ministry of Hydrocarbons and Mines, was overseen by the Minister, Mohamed Arkab, and witnessed by Indonesia’s Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Sudariono, and the Secretary of State in charge of Mines, Karima Bekir Tafer, as well as the Indonesian Ambassador to Algeria and several officials from both sides.
Mokhtar Lakhal, CEO of SOMIFOS, and Rahmad Pribadi, CEO of Pupuk Indonesia, signed the MoU on behalf of their respective companies.
The agreement aims to establish a framework for cooperation and partnership between the two entities, focusing on exploring and developing collaboration opportunities in the phosphate industry. This includes evaluating the feasibility of supplying Pupuk Indonesia with Algerian phosphate, exploring joint investment opportunities in phosphate mining and processing activities within Algeria, and developing related projects involving phosphate-derived products.
According to a statement from the Ministry, the MoU also outlines plans for conducting joint preliminary studies to assess the technical and economic viability of potential projects. The agreement also facilitates the exchange of relevant data and information, and explores prospects for collaboration in the initial stages of phosphate processing industries, with the goal of creating added value and promoting industrial integration.
The MoU is valid for a period of eighteen months, renewable by mutual agreement. During this period, regular meetings will be held to monitor progress and conduct studies, with the possibility of concluding subsequent implementation agreements that clearly define the rights and obligations of each party, in accordance with the laws and regulations in force in both countries.
Minister Arkab emphasized that the signing of this MoU aligns with the President’s directives to strengthen economic partnerships with friendly countries, particularly in strategic mining sectors, with a focus on the phosphate industry as a key pillar in diversifying the Algerian economy.
