Sonatrach in Advanced Negotiations for Seven Strategic Contracts with Global Energy Giants

BY: Dr. Hana Saada

Algeria’s State Energy Giant Strengthens Global Partnerships Amidst a Dynamic Hydrocarbon Market

Algiers, Algeria | February 26th, 2025 — Sonatrach, Algeria’s national oil and gas company, is in the final stages of negotiating seven major hydrocarbon contracts with leading international firms, marking a significant step in the country’s strategy to enhance energy partnerships and boost investments in its oil and gas sector.

 

During a press conference held on the sidelines of a contract signing ceremony with the Chinese energy conglomerate SINOPEC, Sonatrach’s President and CEO, Rachid Hachichi, revealed that the agreements—set to be finalized progressively in the near future—underscore Algeria’s growing appeal as a key player in the global energy landscape.

“These negotiations have been intense and highly strategic,” Hachichi stated, highlighting the extensive deliberations undertaken to secure mutually beneficial terms. “We have held no fewer than 140 negotiation meetings to reach these agreements, reflecting both the complexity and the high stakes involved in these partnerships.”

The contracts under discussion involve a roster of some of the world’s most influential energy players, including:

• China’s SINOPEC
• Italy’s ENI
• France’s TotalEnergies
• U.S. giants Chevron and ExxonMobil
• A Swedish energy company

These agreements come at a time when global energy markets are experiencing significant volatility, with nations seeking to secure stable and reliable hydrocarbon supplies amidst shifting geopolitical and economic landscapes. Sonatrach’s ongoing negotiations position Algeria as a critical supplier of oil and gas, particularly in light of Europe’s drive to diversify energy sources and reduce dependency on Russian fuel.

Strategic Expansion in Refining Capabilities

Beyond these landmark contracts, Hachichi also lauded the launch of a new refinery in Haoud El Hamra (Hassi Messaoud), a pivotal infrastructure project that will significantly enhance Algeria’s refining capacity. The refinery, which was officially inaugurated by Prime Minister Nadir Larbaoui, is designed to process 5 million tonnes of crude oil per year, ensuring greater self-sufficiency in petroleum products while addressing the growing domestic demand for gasoil and refined fuels.

“The refinery at Haoud El Hamra will be a game-changer for Algeria’s energy sector,” Hachichi emphasized. “It aligns with our broader strategy of reinforcing downstream capabilities, reducing reliance on imports, and optimizing the country’s refining infrastructure to meet the demands of an expanding economy.”

Algeria’s Growing Influence in the Global Energy Arena

With these strategic negotiations and infrastructure developments, Sonatrach is cementing its position as a major energy powerhouse in the Mediterranean and beyond. As Algeria continues to attract high-profile international partnerships, the country is poised to play an increasingly pivotal role in shaping the future of global energy supply, leveraging its vast hydrocarbon reserves and strategic geographical positioning.

The impending finalization of these contracts will not only unlock new investment opportunities but also reaffirm Algeria’s commitment to fostering a competitive, resilient, and forward-looking energy sector—one that aligns with both national economic interests and the evolving global energy landscape.

 

 

 

 

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