Algeria is deepening its partnership with China to harness its underground resources and reinforce its industrial base. The production of strategic minerals—particularly iron ore, zinc, lead, and phosphate—is set to support the country’s drive for economic diversification and supply critical raw materials for local industries. During recent meetings between Algeria’s National Mining Research and Exploration Company (Sonarem) and Chinese state-owned enterprise Sinosteel, the importance of executing large-scale mining projects on time and as planned was emphasized. Sinosteel is currently involved in multiple ventures, including the iron ore processing plant in Gara Djebilet, as well as two separate projects with Tosyali Algerie and a Chinese consortium. Construction of the enrichment plant in the Bechar region is already underway.
On April 16, eight new agreements were signed during the Algeria-China Investment Forum in Algiers. These deals span various sectors including automotive, mechanical industries, electronics, and agriculture, showcasing the growing strength of economic ties between the two countries. Algeria’s Minister of Industry, Sefi Gharib, encouraged Chinese investors to take advantage of Algeria’s improved investment climate and urged local exporters to increase their presence in the Chinese market. Chinese Ambassador to Algeria, Dong Guangli, stated that the agreements signed exceeded a total value of $2 billion and confirmed that more projects are in the pipeline. Following recent diplomatic tensions with France, Algeria's shift towards China in its economic relations has become more pronounced. The new deals, particularly in railway equipment, automotive production, agricultural projects, and electronics, are expected to significantly support Algeria's industrialization goals.
The Algerian government views these projects not merely as investments, but as strategic steps to transform the national economy by 2026. Production targets include 20 million tons of iron ore, 10 million tons of phosphate, and 170,000 tons of zinc annually in the coming years. This production capacity could pave the way for Algeria to become a more independent and influential player in the industrial sector.
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