The Algiers Hydrocarbon Conference will take place from May 11 to 13 in the Algerian capital, bringing together international experts, researchers, and industry professionals to discuss the future development of Algeria’s hydrocarbon sector and explore new opportunities in offshore exploration and mature oil field optimization.
The event is organized by Algeria’s National Agency for the Development of Hydrocarbon Resources (ALNAFT) in partnership with the European Association of Geoscientists and Engineers (EAGE). It will feature two major technical workshops addressing strategic challenges facing the country’s oil and gas industry.
According to ALNAFT, the conference aims to create a platform for the exchange of expertise between Algerian and international specialists. Organizers say the initiative is intended to strengthen cooperation, encourage innovation, and accelerate the adoption of advanced technologies in the energy sector.
Participants will examine new approaches to developing Algeria’s hydrocarbon resources, with particular emphasis on improving exploration techniques and maximizing production from existing oil fields.
One of the conference’s key sessions will focus on offshore hydrocarbon exploration in the frontier basin of the western Mediterranean Sea. Experts are expected to evaluate the geological potential of deep and ultra-deep offshore areas, which remain largely unexplored in Algerian waters.
These maritime zones are considered promising for future discoveries. Discussions will focus on the latest technologies used to acquire and process geophysical data, which play a crucial role in identifying potential hydrocarbon deposits and improving the accuracy of exploration campaigns.
Industry specialists will also explore investment opportunities and potential partnerships aimed at accelerating offshore oil exploration projects in Algeria. Strengthening cooperation with international companies and research institutions is expected to be a central theme of the discussions.
The second major workshop will concentrate on improving productivity in mature oil fields, many of which face declining output after decades of production. Experts will present advanced recovery techniques designed to increase extraction rates and extend the lifespan of these fields.
Technical discussions will address the challenges associated with complex reservoirs, particularly heterogeneous and fractured formations that require specialized extraction methods. Innovative technologies aimed at optimizing hydrocarbon recovery are expected to be a major focus.
Participants will also examine the exploitation potential of specific geological formations found in Algeria, including compact Cambrian-Ordovician sands as well as Cenomanian-Turonian and Lias carbonate reservoirs.
The timing of the Algiers Hydrocarbon Conference comes as global oil markets remain highly sensitive to geopolitical developments. Rising tensions in the Middle East earlier this year pushed crude prices higher and highlighted the strategic importance of stable energy suppliers.
In this context, Algeria has attracted growing attention from international energy markets. The country’s flagship crude, Sahara Blend, recently reached an average price of $73.59 per barrel in February, according to the latest report from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC).
This represents an increase of nearly $6 compared with January, positioning Algerian crude among the most competitive and sought-after oils in the African and Arab markets.
Analysts attribute this strong performance to the quality of Sahara Blend, a light and low-sulfur crude that yields a high proportion of valuable refined products. Its characteristics make it particularly attractive to European and Asian refineries seeking reliable and efficient supplies.
Against this backdrop, the upcoming conference in Algiers is expected to highlight Algeria’s ambitions to expand exploration, modernize production technologies, and strengthen its position as a key player in the global energy market.
Sami B. is the founder and editor of Algeria News Gate, an independent English-language platform covering Algeria’s political, economic, and business developments. Based in Europe, he reports on official announcements, economic trends, and international relations involving Algeria.