JIJEL TECH-CITY
JIJEL
Algeria
The Bellara Industrial Zone is Jijel’s main technological and economic hub, designed as a modern industrial city. Its core is the Algerian-Qatari Steel (AQS) complex, which uses advanced technology to drive Algeria’s industrial growth. It also includes the new Kotama Agrifood complex, a high-tech centre aimed at strengthening national food security.
The Bellara Industrial Zone in El Milia, about 45 km east of Jijel, is a large purpose-built industrial ecosystem. The AQS steel complex covers 216 hectares and is planned to reach 4 million tonnes of annual steel production. Nearby, the Kotama Agrifood complex can process 5,000 tonnes of oilseeds per day, supplying about 40% of Algeria’s vegetable oil needs. Together, they are turning Jijel into a major Mediterranean industrial hub. The Bellara Industrial Zone in Jijel exemplifies a strategic role. It plays a pivotal role in boosting local industrial production and presents promising future prospects for exports, particularly in the iron and steel sector.
Future Cities criteria compliance
Environmental & Nature
The Bellara complex leads Algeria in low-carbon “green steel,” using natural gas–based technology that cuts CO₂ emissions compared to blast furnaces. It includes full water-treatment and fume-control systems, while the Kotama plant reuses oilseed by-products as livestock feed to achieve zero waste. The steel facility also produces both hot and cold DRI, improving energy efficiency and reducing electricity use.
Smart City
The AQS steel complex uses the world’s largest MIDREX® Direct Reduction plant, producing high-purity iron with natural gas instead of coal. The Kotama Agrifood complex is fully automated, with advanced digital controls for crushing, refining, and extraction. Both sites are linked by integrated logistics, including a direct rail connection to Djen Djen Port, enabling efficient, export-ready supply chain operations.
Human-Centric
The Bellara and Kotama projects create major social and economic benefits, with over 2,300 direct jobs and 5,000 indirect jobs at Bellara, plus hundreds more at Kotama. AQS focuses on “Algerianising” its workforce through strong training programmes that transfer advanced skills to local engineers. Together, these zones boost regional development, bringing stability and new opportunities to communities in El Milia and Taher.
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