Mohamed Arkab Calls Dutch Firms to 2026 Energy Bid Round

Algerian Minister of Hydrocarbons Mohamed Arkab recently met with Dutch Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen in Algiers to discuss enhanced cooperation and investments within the hydrocarbon sector. During the meeting, Minister Arkab extended a direct invitation to Dutch companies, urging them to participate in the upcoming "Algeria Bid Round 2026." This initiative seeks to bolster the Dutch presence in the Algerian market and capitalize on available investment opportunities, specifically targeting joint investments in upstream oil and gas activities, including research, exploration, and the development of strategic infrastructure. The discussions were held at the Ministry of Hydrocarbons and involved high-ranking officials from both delegations, including the ambassadors of both countries and Abdelkader Cherfaoui, President of the National Agency for the Valorization of Hydrocarbon Resources (ALNAFT).

Both parties acknowledged the positive trajectory of cooperation between their respective companies, particularly in the marketing of crude oil, condensates, refined petroleum products, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and liquefied natural gas (LNG). The meeting emphasized the importance of expanding these exchanges and broadening cooperation into new areas such as refining, petrochemicals, environmental protection, and specialized training. Furthermore, the agenda included discussions on transferring modern technologies pertinent to the oil and gas industry, aiming to deepen the industrial and technological partnerships between Algeria and the Netherlands.

A significant portion of the talks focused on developing robust technological partnerships between Algerian and Dutch enterprises. This collaboration is planned to be coordinated with the Dutch Enterprise Agency (RVO) and Sonatrach, along with its various subsidiaries, with the objective of intensifying knowledge exchange, transferring expertise, and fostering innovative technological solutions. Attention was also given to cooperation in low-carbon technologies, strategies for reducing the carbon footprint, and mitigating emissions at oil and gas facilities, alongside integrating clean technologies across supply chains. Additionally, potential collaborations in manufacturing equipment for the oil and gas industry were explored, designed to contribute to the development of Algeria's national industrial base and enhance local integration.