Algeria is intensifying its upstream strategy with a sharp focus on frontier zones and unconventional resources, positioning shale gas and offshore exploration as critical drivers for expanding the nation’s hydrocarbon reserves and production capacity.
Samir Bekhti, President of ALNAFT, Algeria’s petroleum regulatory authority, emphasized that the regulator’s priority is reaching the full potential of Algeria’s reserves, noting that the country holds some of the largest oil and gas deposits in the region. Algeria is concentrating efforts on frontier zones to increase reserves and production, particularly leveraging its enormous unconventional resources estimated at over 700 trillion cubic feet of un-risked shale gas resources.
The country has already signed eight hydrocarbon contracts in 2025, demonstrating the attractiveness of its legal and fiscal framework to international investors. Bekhti confirmed that new blocks are being prepared for launch in early 2026, with proposals expected in the first or second quarter of next year.
Ferhat Ounoughi, Sonatrach Executive Vice President for Business Development and Marketing, pointed to Algeria’s shale gas as a strategic asset, noting it represents the third largest globally with a substantial portion considered technically recoverable. Success in unlocking these reserves depends critically on operational efficiency, particularly as much of the required equipment is imported, making local manufacturing essential for cost management.
Ounoughi also outlined opportunities in enhanced oil recovery techniques and green energy development, stressing that Algeria must strengthen its position as a reliable gas supplier to Europe within the current geopolitical context.
Khaled Saidi, SLB’s Managing Director for North Africa, highlighted Algeria’s significant and strategic offshore potential, emphasizing the role of automation and digital solutions in optimizing production. Emerson Africa Vice President Cedric Soenens confirmed his company is working with Sonatrach to support production, optimize operation costs, and ensure safety across Algerian fields.
Regional interest in Algeria’s petroleum sector continues to grow, with Massimiliano Mignacca, Managing Director of AMMAT Global Resources, describing Algeria as a strategic partner for Italy and confirming the company is preparing a proposal to launch operations in the country.
Source: eurasiareview.com