Algeria and Niger expand energy ties through fuel exports and refinery deals

Algeria and Niger are significantly expanding their energy and economic cooperation through several major initiatives. The Algerian state oil company, Sonatrach, has begun delivering its first shipments of Jet A1 aviation fuel to Niger via a contract with the Nigerien company Sonidep. This follows a joint commercialization of Nigerien crude oil, marking a deepening of bilateral ties in the Sahel region.

Simultaneously, Niger has signed a $1.9 billion agreement with Zimar Group and High Tech to construct a massive 100,000-barrel-per-day refinery and petrochemical complex in Dosso. Operating under a build-operate-transfer (BOT) model, the project involves a three-year construction phase followed by 13 years of operation before being transferred to the Nigerien government. This facility aims to transform Niger into a regional energy hub, providing refined products to domestic markets and neighboring countries like Burkina Faso and Mali.

Furthermore, Sonatrach and Sonidep have launched new exploration activities at the Kafra permit in northern Niger. This joint venture, where both companies hold a 50% stake, targets significant oil reserves identified in the region, including discoveries totaling over 568 million barrels of oil resources.