Les résultats du fonctionnement continu au port de Bejaia sont « encourageants »
Summary: Minister’s Visit Highlights Success at Bejaia Port
During a recent visit to the port of Bejaia, Algeria’s Transport Minister, Said Sayoud, highlighted the positive outcomes following the implementation of a continuous operation model, which operates 24/7. He noted that the changes have already yielded impressive results, significantly improving port efficiency and effectiveness.
Sayoud expressed satisfaction with the port’s performance, praising its organization and the proactive strategies employed in its operation. Notably, the wait times for ships in the port have decreased from an average of ten days to just four days, thanks to the new continuous system. This improvement is instrumental in enhancing turnaround times and overall service quality.
While at the port, Sayoud inspected the container terminal, which has shown a robust operational dynamic and is poised to potentially exceed the record of over 271,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) handled in 2024. A representative from the Bejaia Mediterranean Terminal (BMT), a joint venture between Algerian and Singaporean interests, emphasized their goal of surpassing 300,000 TEUs with the collaborative efforts involving various authorities, including customs and police.
The minister underscored the reactivation of the dry port in Tixter and the launch of a new weekly rail service connecting it with Bejaia. This development is expected to facilitate increased cargo throughput and enhance service delivery by providing more storage space at the port itself.
Sayoud commended the strong momentum at the port and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to further invest in infrastructure and equipment to create better operational conditions. He mentioned that Serport (the national port authority) has been instructed to commence dredging operations at congested docks to ensure they meet necessary depth requirements.
Additionally, the minister reviewed the newly enhanced “La Casbah” quay, which is partially operational and set to accommodate larger vessels. This quay will specifically cater to the export of zinc and lead minerals from a developing site in Amizour-Tala Hamza, expected to commence production in 2026. The introduction of this new quay will significantly increase the port’s capacity, as it handled over nine million tons of cargo, excluding hydrocarbons, in 2024.
Sayoud also inspected the Abane Ramdane Airport in Bejaia, overseeing preparations geared toward the summer tourist season. He assessed measures aimed at ensuring a welcoming and comfortable experience for both international visitors and the Algerian diaspora.
Through these enhancements, the Bejaia port is set to play a critical role in supporting regional trade while improving infrastructure and aligning with modern logistics standards. The concerted efforts among governmental bodies and private enterprises at the port signal a robust commitment to elevating Algeria’s position in maritime commerce and logistics.
