North Africa’s Economy
Algeria-France Business Ties Hit by Diplomatic Rift
The ongoing diplomatic tensions between Algeria and France are now affecting economic relations, which had so far remained relatively stable. According to RFI, multiple high-level business visits from business leaders on both sides of the Mediterraneans have been canceled in recent days.
Mauritania and Senegal Launch LNG Exports with First Cargo from Grand Tortue Ahmeyim Project
The first shipment of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the Grand Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) project, located offshore between Mauritania and Senegal, has been successfully loaded for export, marking a key milestone for both countries as they join the ranks of LNG-exporting nations.
Morocco to pour $3 billion on high-speed trains ahead of World Cup 2030
Morocco is rapidly expanding its railway infrastructure ahead of co-hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup with Spain and Portugal, securing nearly $3 billion in financing for 168 new trains. Foreign companies from France, Spain and South Korea are lined up to deliver and install the trains.
Algeria Opens First of Five Seawater Desalination Plants to Combat Water Shortages
Algeria has inaugurated the first of five planned seawater desalination plants in Cap-Blanc, Oran, as part of an emergency initiative to address severe water stress and the future impacts of climate change.
Sahel: Mali and Canadian mining firm Barrick are talking again
Mali’s junta and Canadian gold mining firm Barrick Gold went back to the negotiating table to find a compromise in their ongoing feud. The two spent months fighting over the Loulo-Gounkoto gold mine, where the Malian authorities recently seized nearly three tons of gold to pressure the Canadian company.
French energy firm TotalEnergies Exits Mali, Sells Operations to Bénin Petro-Backed Firm
TotalEnergies has exited Mali, finalizing the sale of its operations to Coly Energy Mali, backed by Bénin Petro. While no official explanation was provided, it is likely that tensions with Mali’s ruling junta may have played a role. Sources say that persistent tax pressures and recurring labor strikes may have influenced the company’s decision.
Tunisia: Stranded Oil Platform off Bizerte: Investigations and Removal Plans Underway
Investigations are underway as authorities plan the removal of a stranded oil platform off Bizerte, Tunisia, ensuring compliance with state rights.
Sahel: Senegal-Mauritania Gas Production Officially Launches
BP has officially launched gas production at the Grand Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) field, a major cross-border energy project between Senegal and Mauritania, marking a key milestone after nine years of development.
Mining Standoffs in the Sahel: Two Companies in the Midst of a Foreign Investor Crisis
French uranium firm Orano faces a standoff with Niger over its Somaïr subsidiary, while Mali has issued arrest warrants for Barrick Gold’s CEO in a contract dispute.
Book: Lafarge Group and the Islamic State
Lafarge’s indictment for financing terrorism reveals corporate entanglements with ISIS to maintain operations in Syria. In Personne morale, Justine Augier exposes how multinationals like Lafarge navigate ethics and profit in conflict zones, raising questions on global accountability.