Annaba Port Ships 15,575 Tonnes of Steel Reinforcement to Lithuania
Takeaway
The shipment of steel reinforcement to Lithuania signals growing opportunities for Algerian steel producers in the European market. Investors should monitor AQS's expansion plans and its ability to meet increasing international demand. European construction firms may find AQS a competitive source of steel, potentially impacting supply chains and pricing.
The Port of Annaba loaded 15,575 tonnes of concrete steel reinforcement onto the vessel NASSAUBORG on March 8, 2026, destined for Lithuania. This shipment was facilitated by the Algerian Qatari Steel (AQS) company, highlighting the increasing capabilities of Algerian industries to penetrate foreign markets. The operation involved the mobilization of various technical and logistical resources at the port, in coordination with stakeholders, to ensure smooth loading.
This export reflects Algeria's broader strategy to boost non-hydrocarbon exports and diversify its economy. In 2024, AQS exported 700,000 tons of iron and steel products to 36 countries, generating over $360 million in revenue. This performance earned AQS the title of "Algeria's best exporter to Africa" in 2024. Sider El Hadjar, another Algerian steel company, also exported 10,000 tonnes of steel coils to Italy through the Annaba port in May 2023.
AQS, established in 2013 as a joint venture between Qatar Steel International (49% ownership) and Algerian stakeholders (51% ownership), operates in the Bellara industrial zone in Jijel. In 2024, AQS recorded sales of 139 billion dinars (~$1.03 billion), producing over 2 million tonnes of steel, with 34% allocated for export. The company's production units include a Midrex DRI plant with an annual capacity of 2.5 million tons, two EAF melt shops with a total annual capacity of 2.2 million tons, and three rolling mills with a total annual capacity of 2 million tons of rebars and wire rods.
The increasing steel exports benefit Algeria by increasing foreign revenue and promoting the diversification of the national economy. European markets, in particular, are showing growing demand for Algerian steel products. In September 2025, AQS signed four export contracts worth $420 million for products destined for various African countries, including deals with ENI Steel for West Africa, Al Najah for Libya, and Sahel for Nigeria.
AQS aims to increase its exports to 2.7 million tonnes by 2028 by expanding its production capacity. This target is contingent on the completion of the second phase of its expansion project, scheduled to come online in 2028, which will bring the company's anticipated annual production to 4 million tons. Continued compliance with international quality standards will be crucial for AQS to maintain its competitiveness in the global market.