Sonatrach restarts major gas-processing train at Skikda to boost Algeria’s exports

Algeria’s state-owned oil and gas company Sonatrach announced on October 19 that it has restarted a major gas-processing train at the Skikda complex following an extended maintenance shutdown, restoring an estimated 4.5 bn cubic metres per year of processing capacity.

The rehabilitation supports Algeria’s gas-export commitments to Europe through the Medgaz and TransMed pipelines as well as LNG cargoes shipped from Skikda and Arzew, the company said. Algeria currently produces about 100bn cubic metres of gas annually, roughly half of which is exported.

Sonatrach noted that the restart forms part of its 2025–2030 Infrastructure Rehabilitation Plan, aimed at upgrading ageing facilities and improving operational efficiency. The work at Skikda included compressor modernisation, safety-system replacement, and flaring-reduction upgrades, consistent with the National Energy Transition and Efficiency Plan.

Energy Minister Mohamed Arkab said in remarks cited by Algerie Presse Service (APS) that the government remains committed to honouring long-term gas-supply contracts with Italy and Spain, while pursuing new exploration partnerships in the Illizi and Berkine basins.

Algeria was Europe’s third-largest natural gas supplier in 2024, after Norway and the United States, according to Eurostat data. The Skikda restoration coincides with preparations to commission additional LNG capacity by 2026, part of a broader investment drive of about $40bn through 2028 covering upstream, refining, and LNG expansion projects.

The restart underscores the North African country’s efforts to preserve export reliability and maintain its standing as a key non-Russian gas supplier to European markets.