By: Muslim network

New incentives aim to boost gold output and economic diversification through international collaboration.

ALGIERS, Algeria (MNTV) — Algeria has issued a national invitation to foreign mining firms to participate in the development of its gold reserves, as part of a broader drive to modernize its mining sector and reduce dependency on hydrocarbons.

The initiative, announced by Sonarem—the state-controlled mining group—comes amidst increasing global interest. 

Applications have been received from Chinese, Malaysian, Belgian, Indonesian, and notably Australian firms, with Lionsbridge expressing interest in the Amesmasa and Tirek gold fields in the southern province of Tamanrasset, reported Dzair News.

In 2024 alone, Algeria issued approximately 46 new licenses for traditional gold mining, helping to raise national gold production to over 351 kg from 2022 through December 2024. 

The government’s new $32 million mineral-mapping initiative and streamlined regulatory framework are part of a multi-pronged strategy to unlock the country’s vast mineral potential and make the mining industry more investor-friendly.

A draft revision to Algeria’s mining law, currently under consideration by parliament, aims to simplify licensing procedures, increase foreign equity caps—raising the foreign ownership limit from 49% to 80%—while preserving a 20% stake for Algerian state companies.

These reforms target regulatory efficiency, transparency, and compliance with international environmental standards.

Furthermore, Algeria is revitalizing dormant gold operations by reactivating historic sites—including the Amesmasa and Tirek mines—through partnerships with international firms equipped to bring modern technology and investment, while ensuring environmental stewardship and local employment. 

Lionsbridge has signaled intentions to contribute to sustainable mine development, technology transfer, and workforce training.

These efforts align with President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s Vision of economic diversification, aiming to elevate mining—currently contributing under 1% to GDP—into a strategic growth area. 

Mining reforms are expected to support job creation, regional development, and global market integration.