In the early 1990s, the industrial sector represented Algeria's greatest hope in its search for economic independence. The major component of this part of the economy consisted of hydrocarbon-related processing plants. In addition, heavy industrial manufacturing and construction constituted significant elements of this sector. Algeria has some of the largest deposits of oil and natural gas across the globe. With such an abundance of hydrocarbons, the country is among the top producers worldwide.
Hydrocarbons are the leading sector in Algeria's mining industry. Some minerals, such as high-grade iron ore, phosplate, mecury and zinc nave been exported since the early 1970s.
In 2000, the government proposed allowing foreign investors
to develop mineral deposits held by the national mining companies. The national
geologic and mineral research office has identified many mineral deposits.
However, they were located in remote areas that lacked infrastructure or
government funding for development. With Algeria’s proximity to Europe, its
major minerals customer, the country’s base and precious metals are of interest
to foreign investors
Main import partners |
Main Export Partners |
France 17.2%
China 11.5% Spain 9.4% Italy 9.1% Germany 4.6% (2012 est.) |
United States 16.1%
Spain 13.9% Canada 10.4% Netherlands 8.4% France 8.0% Brazil 5.6% United Kingdom 5.1% (2012 est.) |