The 16th November 2024 was inaugurated by the Algerian-Chinese Fertilizers Company(ACFC), the beginning of the project that includes the development of a phosphate ore mine and phosphate production and processing complex in Oued Keberit (Souk Ahras). Together, these initiatives are part of Algeria's Integrated Phosphate Project. [2]
The Algerian-Chinese company, named Algerian Chinese Fertilizers Company (ACFC), was created in March 2022 by the Algerian companies Asmidal and Manal, which owned the 56%, and the Chinese groups Wuhuan and Tian’an, which own the remaining 44% stake, for an investment of 7 billion dollars.[3][4]
Key highlights include:[5][6]
- Job Creation; These projects are expected to generate over 12,000 direct jobs for construction and operation and more than 24,000 indirect jobs in logistics and related industries.
- Resource Utilization*: The site at Bled El Hadba will extract raw phosphate, enriched to improve its quality, while Oued Keberit will process it into fertilizers like phosphoric acid and ammonium-based products. This process will also integrate natural gas for producing ammonia and urea.
- Economic Impact*: With estimated reserves of 1.2 billion tons of phosphate at Bled El Hadba, Algeria is positioned among the top 10 countries globally in phosphate resources. The project is seen as a cornerstone for enhancing food security and establishing Algeria as a key player in the global fertilizer market.
- Strategic Development; The project represents a fully Algerian effort, led by national companies Sonatrach and Sonarem, with an estimated investment of $1.5 billion. It also includes plans for export infrastructure to handle finished products.
These initiatives are a pivotal part of Algeria’s strategy to diversify its economy and reduce reliance on imports for agricultural products, while also boosting its export potential.[7]
Production will begin in early 2027, according to the official agency.[4]
