The plan includes a project to more than double the plant’s production capacity from 1 million to 2.2 million tons per year by 2017.

The plan will see ArcelorMittal reduce its shareholding in both ArcelorMittal Annaba and ArcelorMittal Tebessa to 49%, with the state of Algeria holding the remaining share of 51%. The investment plan will be funded by equity contributions from shareholders and bank financing. The shareholders’ agreement between the parties involved is to be signed in the coming days.

This plan will ensure a long term future for steelmaking in Annaba and mining in Tebessa, where the production unit will be modernized through the relining of the blast furnace, modernization of the sinter plant, the steel plant and the rolling mills. A new electric steel plant will be built (including an electric arc furnace and continuous casting line) and the downstream units will be reinforced with the construction of a new rolling mill for rebar and wire rod with a production capacity of 1 million tons.

The investment will allow ArcelorMittal Annaba to better respond to increasing domestic demand for steel products in Algeria and to positively contribute to the government’s drive to promote self-sufficiency in steel.

The agreement includes a human resources development plan. Intensive training will be provided to employees in order to adapt to the new technologies planned. This plan is backed by a social stability pact that has been agreed with the unions.

“We are pleased to have reached this agreement with Sider, with whom we have always enjoyed a strong relationship. The agreement will enable ArcelorMittal Annaba and ArcelorMittal Tebessa to play a long term role in Algeria’s steel and mining industries. We now look forward to implementing a plan that is in the interests of both the company and the country. ” said Michel Wurth, member of ArcelorMittal’s Management Board Group.