Algerian Minister of Hydrocarbons, Mohamed Arkab, meets with the executive board of the Spanish firm to boost local production of industrial equipment, technology transfer, and new long-term investment projects.
A High-Level Meeting in Algiers
On Tuesday, May 19, 2026, Algeria’s Minister of State and Minister of Hydrocarbons, Mohamed Arkab, received Gonzaga Fernández, President of the Spanish company ARFLU, at the ministry’s headquarters. The meeting, which also included senior officials from the Algerian Ministry and a delegation of executives from the European company, served to lay the groundwork for closer cooperation in sectors key to the North African country’s economy.
Alliance with Sonatrach: An Eye on Oil and Gas
The meeting provided a key opportunity to examine the prospects for cooperation and partnership between the Algerian state giant Sonatrach and the Spanish firm. ARFLU, which boasts a track record of over thirty years in the sector, specializes in the design and manufacture of industrial valves and advanced high-pressure technical equipment.
The discussions focused specifically on developing equipment and facilities destined for hydrocarbon exploration, production, transport, and refining (processing) activities.
Water Desalination: Responding to Major National Plans
Beyond oil and gas, water took center stage on the agenda. Both parties analyzed the supply and maintenance of technical equipment for seawater desalination plants. This point is crucial for Algeria, which is currently executing an ambitious national program for water infrastructure to combat water scarcity.
The primary objective is to localize the manufacturing of specific industrial components in Algeria, thereby boosting “local content” and creating specialized jobs.
Technology Transfer and a Long-Term Commitment
During the session, ARFLU executives presented their catalog of technological solutions and their capacity to meet the strictest international standards. The Spanish firm made no secret of its interest in strengthening its presence in the Algerian market through joint investment projects and long-term commercial alliances.
For his part, Minister Mohamed Arkab reiterated that this strategy aligns perfectly with the directives of the President of the Republic, Abdelmadjid Tebboune. The Algerian leader firmly insists on the need to enhance local industrialization, knowledge transfer, and the development of national capabilities across all strategic sectors of the country.
