Algeria is preparing a comprehensive modernisation of the El Hadjar steel complex in Annaba, one of the country’s key heavy-industry assets. The need to renew the plant was confirmed by Algerian Industry Minister Yahia Bachir following a working visit to the site.
An inspection of the production units operated by Al Solb, a subsidiary of the national steel company SNS, showed that the complex retains a substantial industrial base and production potential. At the same time, several key facilities have reached the end of their service life and require technological renewal.
Key modernisation priorities
- introducing modern production and energy-efficient technologies;
- building an integrated value chain, from direct iron reduction to finished products;
- developing international partnerships that ensure technology and expertise transfer;
- increasing local value added and creating new jobs.
Special attention will be paid to the technical assessment of rolling equipment returned to state ownership and to bringing viable machinery back into economically sound projects. New iron and steel processing facilities are also planned on recovered industrial land in the municipality of Berrahal.
The government regards El Hadjar and the Ferrovial group as important elements of its heavy-industry development strategy. For Russian metallurgical, engineering and machinery companies, the modernisation may create opportunities in equipment supply, technology partnerships, maintenance services and workforce training.
