Annaba Mineral Terminal Progresses with Chinese CHEC Partnership
The integrated phosphate megaproject in Algeria is experiencing sustained progress, particularly in establishing essential basic infrastructure. A central component, the mineral terminal at Annaba port, is anticipated for reception in February next year, according to a representative of Chinese company CHEC. This development is expected to facilitate the first international export operation of phosphate ore from the terminal in March, marking the operational phase of a vital logistical link within the megaproject.
Sonatrach recently signed an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contract with CHEC for the port infrastructure at the Annaba mineral terminal. This infrastructure is designed for the storage of phosphate ore and finished products destined for the international market. The port platform is instrumental in supporting Algeria's commercial policy to enter the external market and establish the country as a key supplier of fertilizers, a product deemed essential for global food security. The operational launch of the Annaba mineral terminal and the commencement of initial exports will signal the project's transition into an active phase, aiming to diversify exports and foster a national industry capable of generating increased added value.
The completion of the Annaba mineral terminal is slated to coincide with the delivery of the eastern mining line, which connects the Bled El Hadba mine, processing and transformation units, and Annaba port. This mining line is also reported to be advancing steadily and is expected to meet its deadlines. These two strategic components represent the initial phases of the integrated phosphate project, with other elements such as the phosphate ore treatment and enrichment complex in Bled El Hadba and the phosphatic fertilizer production complex in Oued Kebrit (Souk Ahras) scheduled for completion in the third quarter of next year, following EPC contracts awarded by Sonatrach to the Italian company Saipem. This comprehensive national project highlights Algeria's ambition to achieve an annual fertilizer production exceeding 12 million tons, transitioning from resource exploitation to industrial transformation and securing market share in the global fertilizer sector.
