Algeria, with its strategic location along the Mediterranean Sea, has a rich maritime tradition that dates back centuries. The country’s ports serve as crucial gateways for both domestic and international trade. With 13 major commercial ports along its coastline, Algeria’s maritime infrastructure plays a vital role in its economic growth and international trade relations. This article delves into the diverse range of Algerian ports, shedding light on their unique characteristics and contributions to the nation’s trade and economy.
General Cargo Ports:
| Name of the Port | Tonnage (tons) | Draft |
|---|---|---|
| Port of Algiers | 11.5 million (2022) | Up to -10.5m |
| Port of Oran | 8.1 million (2022) | Up to -10.5m |
| Port of Annaba | 6.5 million (2022) | Up to -10.5m |
| Port of Mostaganem | >500,000 (Timeframe unspecified) | Up to -8.2m |
| Port of Djen-Djen | 9.2 million (2022) | Up to -18.2m |
| Port of Ténès | 200,000 (Clinker, 2022 Target) | Up to -7.2m |
| Port of Ghazaouet | – | Up to -10.5m |
| Port of Bejaia | >11 million (2022) | Up to -11.6m |
| Port of Arzew | 25.6 million (July 31, 2022) | Up to -17m |
| Port of Skikda | 23 million (2022) | Up to -15.5m |
Port of Algiers:
Situated in the capital city, the Port of Algiers is one of the largest deep-water seaports in the country, serving as a significant hub for Algeria’s international trade transport requirements.
The Port of Algiers has showcased a robust performance in the first quarter of 2023, witnessing a remarkable 14% surge in maritime traffic compared to the previous year. This uptick reflects in the figures, with a total of 55,955 containers handled and 377 ships accommodated during this period. Notably, the port has also achieved a significant reduction in waiting time, dropping from 0.88 days in Q1 2022 to a mere 0.58 days in Q1 2023, signifying enhanced operational efficiency.
| Parameter | Statistics |
|---|---|
| Maritime Traffic Increase | +14% in Q1 2023 |
| Containers Handled (TEU) | 55,955 in Q1 2023 |
| Ships Docked | 377 in Q1 2023 |
| Waiting Time (days) | Decreased from 0.88 in Q1 2022 to 0.58 in Q1 2023 |
This buoyant trend not only underlines the port’s pivotal role in bolstering Algeria’s maritime trade but also posits the Port of Algiers as a burgeoning hub of maritime activity in the North African region.
Port of Oran:
The Port of Oran, a principal platform for commercial exchanges in Northern Algeria, has been exhibiting an impressive performance, especially with its non-hydrocarbon exports. The port played a pivotal role in boosting Algeria’s non-hydrocarbon exports, which saw a significant increase in 2022, reflecting the port’s crucial role in diversifying Algeria’s economy beyond oil and gas.
Below is a table summarizing some key statistics:
| Parameter | Statistics |
|---|---|
| Non-Hydrocarbon Exports Increase (2022) | +163% in H1 2022 compared to H1 2021 |
| Total Cargo Handled (2022 H1) | 5.6 million tons |
| Increase in Export Volume (2022 vs 2021) | +149% |
| Terminal Expansion (2023) | 100% completion, enabling reception of larger vessell |
Port of Annaba:
Situated in the northeastern part of Algeria, the Port of Annaba has been a bustling hub of maritime trade. The port witnessed a significant growth in traffic, particularly in 2021, with a 51.50% increase in global traffic as compared to 2020. This uptick translated to a total of 5.774 million tonnes of goods handled by the port in 2021, up from 3.811 million tonnes in the preceding year.
This growth trajectory was also evident in the first quarter of 2021, where the port handled 1.343 million tonnes of goods, marking a substantial 47% increase relative to the same period in 2020. A notable aspect of this port’s performance is the surge in non-hydrocarbon exports, which amounted to 1.218 million tonnes, significantly higher than the 716,000 tonnes recorded in the prior year.
| Parameter | Statistics |
|---|---|
| Global Traffic Increase (2021) | +51.50% compared to 2020 |
| Goods Handled (2021) | 5.774 million tons |
| Goods Handled (Q1 2021) | 1.343 million tons |
| Non-Hydrocarbon Exports (2021) | 1.218 million tons |
Port of Mostaganem:
Known historically as Mestghanem, this small-sized general cargo port mainly handles commodities like wine, asphalt, sugar, and cereals, serving as a crucial link for local industries.
This Port has experienced activity in various domains, especially in the area of exports. During the first quarter of 2023, the port recorded close to 100,000 tons of goods exported. In the first ten months of the current year, the volume of non-hydrocarbon exports through the commercial port of Mostaganem exceeded 300,000 tons, indicating a significant movement of goods devoid of hydrocarbon products. There is also a mention of over 500,000 tons of non-hydrocarbon products expected to the end of the year.
Below is a summary table depicting the key statistics gathered:
| Parameter | Statistics |
|---|---|
| Goods Exported (Q1 2023) | ~100,000 tons |
| Non-hydrocarbon Exports (10 months, 2023) | >300,000 tons |
| Non-hydrocarbon Products (Q1+Q2+Q3+Q4 2023) | >500,000 tons |
Port of Djen-Djen:
Located in the Wilaya of Jijel to the east of Algiers next to Bejaia, holds a strategic position less than 50 miles from the maritime route linking the Suez Canal to the Strait of Gibraltar. This prime location awards it a privileged role in the maritime transportation network both at the continental and regional levels. The port extends over an area of 210 hectares, with a draft going up to -18.20m, making it one of the most significant port structures in the Mediterranean in terms of space and deep water.
In a recent update as of October 31, 2023, the port had 8 ships docked, 3 ships on roadstead, and 3 ships expected, indicating a healthy level of maritime activity. Moreover, the port has been undergoing expansion to transform it into a hub port, aimed at increasing its capacities and integrating it into the network of major Mediterranean ports.
Here’s a summary table depicting the key information gathered:
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Wilaya of Jijel, Algeria |
| Area | 2.1 KM² |
| Draft | Up to -18,20 m |
| Ships Docked (as of 31/10/23) | 8 |
| Ships on Roadstead (as of 31/10/23) | 4 |
| Ships Expected (as of 31/10/23) | 3 |
| Expansion Status | Undergoing transformation into a hub |
Port of Ténès:
The Port of Ténès is a small maritime structure located to the west of Algiers, less than 50 km from the East-West highway. This port has been pivoting towards export activities in addition to its regular import activities of raw materials and equipments.
The port commenced a revival of its export activities in 2021 with the shipment of 50,000 tonnes of steel products from Tosyali Algeria, based in Bethioua, Oran. Following this, the company of cements and derivatives (ECDE) of Chlef selected this port for the export of clinker (semi-finished cement). This operation began on March 12, with an aim to reach quantities of around 200,000 tonnes of clinker during the ongoing exercise.
Furthermore, the Port of Ténès is working towards strengthening its export activities by forming a partnership with ECDE, also introducing finished cement in pallets for exportation. This initiative is part of a broader ambitious program by ECDE Chlef which aimed at exporting 1.5 million tonnes of clinker in 2022. To support these growing export activities, the port is enhancing its docking infrastructure to accommodate large ships carrying up to 40,000 tons.
Here’s a summary table depicting the key information gathered:
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | West of Algiers, Algiers |
| Export Activity (2021) | 50,000 tons of steel products |
| Clinker Export (2022 Target) | 1.5 million tons |
| Docking Infrastructure Enhancement | Accommodate ships up to 40,000 tons |
Port of Ghazaouet:
A mid-sized commercial harbor that handles a variety of cargo and has strong economic potential due to its strategic location.
The Port of Ghazaouet, situated in the northwest of Algeria, serves as a significant maritime facility in the region. The port is located approximately 30 kilometers east of the Algerian-Moroccan border, and about 45 kilometers from the international Messali El-Hadj airport in Tlemcen, making it a strategic point for trade and transportation.
As of a recent update on October 9, 2023, the port had one ship docked, with no arrivals or departures recorded within the last 24 hours. The official website of the Port of Ghazaouet mentions various activities taking place, although it doesn’t provide recent statistics but shares data for the years 2018 and 2019. During these years, there was recorded traffic concerning container handling, the movement of ships, imported and exported goods, as well as passenger, vehicle.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 30 km east of the Algerian-Moroccan border, 45 km from the international airport in Tlemcen |
| Ship Activity (as of 9/10/2023) | 1 ship docked, 0 arrivals/departures in the last 24 hours |
Port of Dellys:
Operating as both a fishing and commercial port, Port of Dellys handles a moderate number of vessels annually, contributing to the local economy.
Port of Bejaia:
As Algeria’s second-busiest seaport, Bejaia handles a vast array of goods and serves a large hinterland to the south, acting as a vital conduit for the region’s trade activities.
The Port is located on the northern coast of Algeria, has been bustling with activity, especially during the summer of 2023. On August 13, 2023, the port recorded a significant number of passengers and vehicles, showcasing its capability in handling substantial maritime traffic. Throughout the summer season, the port welcomed 50,318 passengers and 18,738 vehicles, marking a respective increase of 42% and 86% compared to the summer of 2022.
In 2022, the Port of Bejaia handled over 11 million tons of goods, of which 8.6 million tons were non-hydrocarbon products. Additionally, it increased its container handling capacity by 14% compared to 2021, highlighting its continuous efforts to enhance its operational efficiency.
Below is a summary table encapsulating the key statistics:
| Parameter | Statistics |
|---|---|
| Location | Northern coast of Algeria |
| Passenger Traffic (Summer 2023) | 50,318 passengers |
| Vehicle Traffic (Summer 2023) | 18,738 vehicles |
| Goods Handled (2022) | >11 million tons, 8.6 million tons non-hydrocarbon |
| Container Handling Capacity Growth | 14% increase (2022 compared to 20222 |
Port of Skikda
The Port of Skikda is undergoing an expansion project, which as of recent updates, is about 80% complete, aiming to further bolster its operational capacities, particularly in handling petroleum products. In 2021, the port witnessed a 5% increase in the volume of its port activities compared to the previous year. During the first four months of 2022, the port exported 325,415 tonnes of Clinker, surpassing its annual target of 274,907 tons for that year.
The Port of Skikda handles a variety of cargo, including bulk grain, containers, Ro-Ro’s, general cargo, and oil products. Annually, it manages approximately 22,529,000 tonnes of cargo, 13,000 TEU, and 3,100 vessels. The port’s infrastructure includes a breakwater of 1,615m in length with an entrance 100m wide. For accommodating larger vessels, particularly tankers, the port features a berth with a length overall (LOA) of 225m, a draught of 14.0m, and a deadweight tonnage (DWT) capacity of 50,000.
Here’s a summary table encapsulating the key information:
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Expansion Project Progress | 80% completion |
| Activity Growth (2021) | 5% increase in volume of activities |
| Clinker Export (Early 2022) | 325,415 tons |
| Annual Cargo Handling | Approx. 22,529,000 tonnes of cargo, 13,000 TEU, 3,100 vessell |
| Infrastructure | Breakwater 1,615m, Entrance 100m, Tanker Berth LOA 225m, Draught 14.0m, 50,000 DWT |
The New Port of Skikda is evidently making strides in enhancing its capacity and operational efficiency, aligning with broader objectives to boost the region’s maritime trade.
Port of Arzew:
The Port of Arzew, situated in northern Algeria, is a crucial hub especially for the transportation of hydrocarbons, highlighting its significance in the energy sector. An extension project for the port was announced to commence before the end of January 2023, with the intention of expanding its capabilities. This expansion aligns with the observed growth at the port, where a 6% increase in turnover was reported on July 31, 2022, alongside a 7.35% increase in goods treated, totaling 25.6 million tons, and 1,466 ship movements .
The official website of the Port of Arzew provides a snapshot of the port’s activities, indicating the types and tonnage of cargo being handled. For instance, on various dates within a short period, the port handled diverse cargos such as Methane, Bitume, Fuel, Butane Propane (GPL), Petrole Brut, Ammoniac, and more, with tonnages ranging from a few thousand to 90,000 tonnes per ship.
Moreover, the Port of Arzew is undergoing further enhancements, with the initiation of a project to construct two ship repair berths and other expansions to its facilities, aiming to bolster its operational efficiency and capacity.
Here’s a summary table encapsulating the key information:
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Extension Project Initiation | Before end of January 2023 |
| Goods Treated (July 31, 2022) | 25.6 million tons |
| Ship Movements (July 31, 2022) | 1,466 |
| Recent Cargo Handling | Methane, Bitume, Fuel, Butane Propane (GPL), Petrole Brut, Ammoniac… |
| Future Expansion | Two ship repair berths and other facilitity |
The Port of Arzew continues to evolve, with strategic expansions underway to accommodate the increasing demand and ensure smooth operations in handling a variety of cargoes, especially focusing on the hydrocarbon sector.
Conclusion:
Algeria’s ports are more than just maritime gateways; they are the lifeblood of the nation’s economy, facilitating trade, supporting industries, and fostering international relations.
The diverse range of ports, each with its unique attributes, reflects Algeria’s rich maritime heritage and its modern-day aspirations to enhance trade and economic growth. Through continuous investment and development in its port infrastructure, Algeria aims to bolster its maritime capabilities, further integrating itself into the global trade network.
FAQ (Algerian Port)
Q1: What are the major ports in Algeria?
A1: The major ports in Algeria include the Port of Algiers, Port of Oran, Port of Annaba, New Port of Skikda, Port of Bejaia, Port of Arzew, Port of Djen-Djen, Port of Ténès, Port of Mostaganem, and Port of Ghazaouet, among others.
Q2: What types of cargo are handled at Algerian ports?
A2: Algerian ports handle a variety of cargo including petroleum products, natural gas, grains, minerals, general cargo, containers, and Ro-Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off) vehicles.
Q3: Are there any expansion projects underway at Algerian ports?
A3: Yes, several Algerian ports such as the New Port of Skikda and Port of Arzew are undergoing expansion projects to enhance their operational capacities and accommodate larger vessels.
Q4: What is the role of Algerian ports in the economy?
A4: Algerian ports play a crucial role in the economy by facilitating maritime trade, supporting the energy sector, and contributing to regional and international connectivity.
Q5: How can I get statistical data on Algerian ports?
A5: Statistical data on Algerian ports can often be found on their official websites or through government publications. Additionally, international maritime organizations and trade publications may also provide relevant statistics.
Q6: What measures are taken to ensure safety and security at Algerian ports?
A6: Algerian ports adhere to international maritime safety and security standards, with measures including surveillance systems, patrol units, and strict access controls in place to ensure a secure environment.