By 2017, Algeria’s Aïn El Kebira cement plant will double its current cement 1Mta capacity as it adds a new 1Mta line. Business has been brisk for the works, which produces 1.26Mt at present, and it is expected the new line will enable the company to lift its output to 3Mt. To fund the new line the National Investment Fund has allocated ALD37bn.

Tenders are currently in the evaluation stage with selection of the successful bidder envisaged for 2 June. According to the managing director of the cement works, Loucif Hassous, construction is due to start at the start of 2014.