The 4th International Exhibition of Iron, Steel and Mining Products (Metal Steel & Mining Algeria Expo 2026), held at the Palace of Exhibitions in Algiers (March 30th – April 1st), has recorded notable international participation, reflecting a growing interest in the Algerian market, amid the country’s ongoing economic momentum, particularly following the development of the Gara Djebilet iron ore deposit.
This strong interest is evident in the significant presence of foreign companies at the exhibition, which brings together around 250 exhibitors, including 150 foreign participants representing several countries such as China, Italy, Turkiye, India, Tunisia, Libya, Niger and Chad.
This takes place in a global context marked by increasing challenges in the industrial and energy sectors, prompting the search for new partnerships and more efficient industrial solutions.
In this regard, CEO of DRI-Catalyst Technology, a company specializing in industrial catalyst production, Shi Tianshi, told APS that his company’s participation is part of exploring the North African market within the framework of the “Belt and Road” initiative, emphasizing that Algeria represents “a promising destination given its industrial capabilities.” He said that Algeria hosts one of the world’s largest direct reduction iron plants, enhancing its attractiveness for investment.
He added that this first visit by the Chinese delegation has left “a positive impression,” with prospects for establishing direct relations with local partners.
For his part, the CEO of Libya’s National Mining Corporation, Faraj Shandoli, highlighted that the exhibition serves as “a platform to strengthen cooperation bridges between Algeria and Libya,” emphasizing Algeria’s significant potential in the field of mineral resources.
He also pointed out that the Algerian market is rich in highly skilled expertise in the energy and mining sectors, expressing the interest of the Libyan companies in benefiting from this experience, particularly in training and the exchange of expertise.
Pertaining to this, the Director General of Mines at Chad’s Ministry of Petroleum, Mines and Geology, Ache Nangosdai, whose country is this edition’s guest of honor, stressed the importance of strengthening economic cooperation between the two countries in light of existing agreements, expressing hope that the exhibition would contribute to achieving shared objectives.
