Annaba Port Ships 20,000 Tonnes of White Cement to Guatemala
Image: Algerie Eco
Takeaway
The cement export to Guatemala signals Algeria's intent to diversify its export markets beyond its traditional partners. Investors should analyze Biskria Ciment's production capacity and export strategies to gauge its potential for further growth. Monitoring the impact of carbon taxes on Algerian cement exports to Europe will be crucial for assessing long-term profitability.
The Port of Annaba loaded 20,000 tonnes of white cement onto a ship bound for Guatemala on Saturday, April 18, 2026. The cement, packaged in Jumbo bags, was produced by the private company Biskria Ciment. The port authority of Annaba confirmed the shipment, highlighting it as part of Algeria's push to expand non-hydrocarbon exports.
This shipment follows Algeria's recent efforts to diversify its exports to 19 countries. The country has been trying to reduce its reliance on hydrocarbons, which historically account for over 90% of its export revenue. Non-hydrocarbon exports have tripled since 2017, reaching $5.1 billion in 2023, but still only represent 2% of GDP. The government aims to reach $29 billion in non-hydrocarbon exports by 2030. In 2023, Algeria's exports of cement products and building materials manufacturing reached DZD 164.1 million (~$1.2 million), an increase from DZD 49.7 million (~$368,000) in 2022.
Algeria's cement industry has seen significant export activity in recent years. In 2024, Algeria exported $357 million in cement, making it the 11th largest exporter of cement in the world. The United States was the primary destination, receiving $86.4 million worth of Algerian cement, followed by France ($59.5 million) and Mauritania ($44.9 million). The average export price of cement in 2024 was $163 per ton, a 5.4% increase from the previous year.
The cement export benefits Biskria Ciment and the Port of Annaba, contributing to Algeria's diversification goals. The shipment to Guatemala expands Algeria's reach in the Latin American market. However, with Europe introducing carbon taxes at its borders, Algeria needs to transition to greener production methods for carbon-intensive exports like cement to maintain long-term export sustainability.
Looking ahead, further cement exports from Algeria are expected as the country continues its diversification efforts. Investors should monitor Algeria's progress in reducing its reliance on hydrocarbons and expanding its non-hydrocarbon sectors. Key indicators to watch include the volume and destination of cement exports, the implementation of greener production methods, and the achievement of the government's $29 billion non-hydrocarbon export target by 2030.