Expert Highlights Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline for Algeria-Niger Cooperation
An expert in economic and energy affairs, Abderrahmane Mebtoul, has identified the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline (TSGP) as the most significant project connecting Algeria and Niger. Mr. Mebtoul highlighted that 2026 saw a notable acceleration in bilateral cooperation between the two nations across various sectors, encompassing defense, economic investments, hydrocarbons, electricity, and infrastructure. The TSGP, designed to link Algeria, Niger, and Nigeria, underscores a crucial axis for energy development and regional partnership.
The scope of cooperation extends beyond the pipeline, reflecting Niger's strategic importance to Algeria both in terms of security, given their 956-kilometer shared border, and economically. Intensified mutual visits between Algerian and Nigerien officials have demonstrated a rapid evolution in bilateral ties, translating into concrete projects on the ground. Notably, Algeria's Sonatrach company is actively engaged in exploration and production initiatives in the Kafra field. Furthermore, Sonatrach is transferring its expertise in key areas such as refining, petrochemicals, hydrocarbon transport, derivative products, and the maintenance of refining infrastructure, including the Zinder refinery, alongside supporting fuel production and marketing.
Beyond these foundational energy projects, cooperation encompasses developing Niger's capabilities in fuel storage, processing, and distribution, as well as liquefied petroleum gas and bitumen. Efforts also include the construction of a 40-megawatt power plant, support for developing transmission and distribution networks, and specialized training, particularly in renewable energy. Despite a bilateral trade volume of $27 million in 2025—excluding cross-border bartering activities—the strong political relations between Algeria and Niger are anticipated to facilitate further growth through ongoing negotiations. These discussions aim to establish a preferential trade agreement, develop free trade zones, enhance logistical and energy infrastructure, and expand collaboration in the mineral sector, given Niger's substantial reserves of uranium, confirmed oil, and initial gas reserves, alongside other valuable resources.
