mise en service d’une zone de dégagement portuaire sous contrôle douanier
Summary of the Opening of the New Port Clearance Zone in Algeria
On Monday, a new customs-controlled port clearance zone was officially opened in Rouiba, a suburb of Algiers. This facility, operated by the Algiers Port Authority (EPAL), spans nearly 45,000 square meters and aims to alleviate congestion at the Port of Algiers.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by prominent officials, including Transport Minister Saïd Sayoud, Interior Commerce Minister Tayeb Zitouni, and External Trade and Export Promotion Minister Kamel Rezig. They were joined by local authorities, customs representatives, and members of the parliament.
The new port clearance area has a total capacity to handle approximately 2,400 containers, equating to about 10% of the existing storage capacity at the Port of Algiers. According to EPAL’s Director General, Abdelhamid Boulaam, the zone includes a storage platform covering 39,752 square meters, a scanner that can process 200 containers per hour, four cranes, and dedicated warehouses for hazardous materials and unloading operations.
Transport Minister Sayoud stated that this new facility is expected to lower the occupancy rates at the Port of Algiers and expedite commercial operations for importers. He emphasized that the operational capabilities of the clearance zone, backed by relevant authorities such as the port authority and customs services, will significantly improve the efficiency of port operations. The facility is designed to operate around the clock, every day of the week, in line with directives from President Abdelmadjid Tebboune.
In addition to inaugurating the new zone, Minister Sayoud highlighted ongoing efforts to establish additional clearance areas at other ports. He applauded the cooperation among various stakeholders aimed at enhancing service quality across the maritime sector.
Furthermore, Sayoud reported on actions to recover malfunctioning vessels in the Algerian merchant fleet. Following the recent restoration of two ships, "Sedrata" and "Saoura," another vessel, "Constantine," is set for repairs abroad. He also addressed the termination of a partnership with a foreign operator managing three vessels, which he described as unequal. The vessels will now be transferred to the CNAN Algeria shipping company.
This new initiative is seen as a big step towards improving Algeria’s maritime logistics and enhancing trade efficiency, reflecting the government’s commitment to modernizing its port facilities and services.
