Algerian cement producer, Groupe Industriel des ciments d’Algerie (GICA) expects to increase its cement capacity in four plants and build a further two works. This will raise capacity from the current 11.5Mta to 23Mta in 2019.

Expansion projects at the works of Aïn Kebira and Chlef are forecast to be completed in September this year, increasing capacity to 1.5Mta. As a result, GICA expects to replace the 3.5Mt of imports by national output by the end of the year.

Moreover, Zahana and Beni Saf will see the addition of new production lines, expanding capacity by 3.5Mta.

The new plants at Oum El Boughi and Bechar are expected to come online in November 2018, raising output potential by a further 3Mta.