Algeria Embarks on a New Era of Technological Sovereignty: Inauguration of the First National Electronic Chip Laboratory

BY: Dr. Hana Saada

Algiers, Algeria | December 30th, 2024 — In a landmark event on Monday, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Kamel Baddari inaugurated Algeria’s first national laboratory for electronic chip design and production, heralding what he described as “a new era of technological sovereignty.” The state-of-the-art facility, housed at the Centre for the Development of Advanced Technologies (CDTA) in Baba Hassen, Algiers, marks a transformative step forward in Algeria’s journey toward integrating cutting-edge technology into its economy and strengthening its applied research capabilities in strategic sectors.

Historic Breakthrough in Electronic Chip Technology

Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Baddari emphasized the significance of the laboratory, calling it a “turning point” for Algeria. “This is the first time our researchers have mastered 65-nanometer technology design,” he proudly declared, noting that this achievement places Algeria on the global map of advanced chip production. The laboratory is set to commence manufacturing electronic chips as early as April 2025, enabling the production of high-performance electronic boards and supporting the establishment of 25 startups.

According to the minister, this initiative will transform research centers into engines of economic growth, creating wealth and job opportunities. The laboratory’s technology roadmap also includes the development of 13-nanometer chips by 2026, aimed at highly secure applications such as biometric cards. Since 2023, four specialized teams have been working tirelessly on this ambitious project, leveraging local expertise to achieve this technological feat.

Empowering Startups and Innovation Ecosystems

Alongside the laboratory, the CDTA’s incubator for technological innovation is poised to support 25 startups by 2025, integrating them into industrial value chains. The minister highlighted several groundbreaking prototypes already developed at the CDTA, including a forest fire detection system and an aquatic robot designed to measure silt levels in dams.

“These innovations underscore our commitment to bridging scientific research with practical solutions that address national challenges, in alignment with the vision of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune,” Baddari stated.

The CDTA operates within a robust ecosystem of specialized enterprises, such as SATICOM, focused on information and communication technologies, and Proto-CDTA, dedicated to industrial prototyping. This network of subsidiaries, complemented by emerging startups, serves as a critical bridge between scientific research and industrial application, amplifying the economic impact of the center.

Job Creation and Economic Impact

Minister Baddari outlined the broader economic implications of this initiative, projecting the creation of nearly 1,000 jobs by 2027. This growth is expected to provide promising opportunities for young university graduates, reinforcing the role of Algeria’s higher education institutions as drivers of national development.

“This momentum demonstrates Algeria’s ability to transform scientific research into tangible drivers of economic progress,” Baddari affirmed.

Building Algeria’s Technological Sovereignty

With its sights set firmly on the future, Algeria is positioning itself as a rising player in advanced technology. The national electronic chip laboratory, supported by its network of startups and specialized subsidiaries, stands as a strategic pillar in the country’s pursuit of technological and economic sovereignty.

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