Alnaft Intensifies 2026 Hydrocarbon Bid Promotion at African Energy Week
Algeria's National Agency for the Valorization of Hydrocarbon Resources (Alnaft) is actively engaged in promoting the "Algeria Bid Round 2026" at the African Energy Week, held in Cape Town, South Africa, from October 12 to 16. This strategic participation aims to attract major international energy companies and highlight Algeria's significant potential in hydrocarbon exploration and production. The ongoing promotional efforts underscore the nation's commitment to strengthening its position in the global energy market and fostering international partnerships.
A dedicated session at the African Energy Week will showcase Algeria's exploration capabilities and the evolving investment framework for its upstream sector. This session is strategically timed ahead of the November 30 deadline for closing virtual data rooms, which provide qualified investors with remote access to geological and technical data for seven vital exploration perimeters. These perimeters are located across rich basins, including Illizi and Berkine. Since its launch in April, the bid round has garnered substantial international attention, with nearly 60 companies expressing interest in participation.
The bidding process is set to continue with the submission of offers and the opening of envelopes on January 25, 2027. Subsequently, partnership contracts with Sonatrach are expected to be signed by March 31, 2027. The Cape Town engagement is a key part of an extensive international promotional campaign. This campaign has included Alnaft's participation in the Global Energy Summit in London in late September and the NAPEC 2026 conference in Oran earlier in October, further emphasizing Algeria's proactive approach to attracting foreign investment.
NJ Ayuk, CEO of the African Energy Chamber, noted that the African Energy Week serves as an ideal platform to showcase Algeria's unique combination of proven hydrocarbon resources, established infrastructure, and vast exploration potential. The event, gathering over 10,000 participants and approximately 1,500 international companies, provides a significant opportunity for Algeria to engage with global investors and facilitate new projects and partnerships across hydrocarbons, LNG, electricity, and renewable energies. This broad international interest highlights Algeria's appeal as a promising investment destination.
