Fact Sheet SITP 2008

SITP – Enormous potential in Algeria
Algeria has been reporting very good macro-economic data for years. In 2003, Algeria already enjoyed the fastest growth in the MENA region at 6.8%. In 2006 this stood at 4.8%. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is anticipating steady growth of 5 to 6% over the coming years. 

For the period from 2005 to 2009, the Algerian government launched an economic support programme, funded from its own resources. Initially comprising invitations to tender for projects worth EUR 38 billion in 2005, the volume has now expanded to a total in excess of EUR 89 billion. Under this scheme, just under €20 billion have been earmarked for the improvement of living conditions, one of the aims being to build 1.2 million new homes and 1,500 schools and universities. 

A further important area is infrastructure, for which around EUR17 billion have been set aside. The main focuses here are public transport (renovating/building railway stations, improving the tram system, constructing 5,100 km of new rail track and 1,200 km of motorways) and the water supply and drainage system. A number of international companies are currently bidding for major contracts in the field of drinking water supply and sewage disposal for the conurbations of Annaba, Constantine and Oran.