Sonatrach passe du statut d’importateur à celui d’exportateur
Summary:
The construction of a new production unit for Methyl Tert-Butyl Ether (MTBE) in the Arzew industrial zone of Oran is progressing well, with a 67% completion rate as reported by Rachid Hachichi, CEO of Sonatrach. This project is crucial for local MTBE production, which will supply Sonatrach’s gasoline production units and transition the company from an importer to an exporter of this key gasoline additive.
The new MTBE production unit, initiated in June 2022, will have an output capacity of 200,000 tons per year. This unit will utilize around 75% of the methanol produced at the existing methanol complex in Arzew, which is Algeria’s only facility synthesizing methanol from natural gas.
During his visit, Hachichi also reviewed the newly renovated Chain 100 of the GL1Z natural gas liquefaction complex, highlighting its increased operational flexibility. He further inspected the seawater pumping station of the GL2Z complex, currently under rehabilitation, which serves vital functions such as firefighting, cooling exchangers, and distilled water production.
The tour concluded with an assessment of the recently upgraded ship loading arms, part of a broader modernization program for the facility. Overall, the advancements at Arzew are poised to enhance Algeria’s position in the energy market by fostering domestic production capabilities and modernizing existing infrastructure.
