Algeria National Railway Expansion Programme
Algeria is advancing a multi-year railway investment programme aimed at expanding the national rail network, improving freight and passenger mobility, and supporting industrial and regional development. A number of key projects are scheduled to reach completion or operational readiness during 2026, marking a significant phase in the modernisation of the country’s rail infrastructure.
A central component of the programme is the development of dedicated mining corridors to support large-scale mineral production and export. The South-West mining line linking Béchar, Tindouf and the Gara Djebilet iron ore deposit is nearing commercial operation following the completion of technical testing. Designed for heavy-haul operations, the line is intended to support high-volume bulk transport while also accommodating passenger services.
In parallel, progress continues on the Eastern mining railway, which is being developed to facilitate the movement of phosphate and related products. Track-doubling works are being implemented on key sections to increase capacity and operational efficiency, with several segments expected to be delivered in the near term.
The programme also includes the completion of the High Plateaux railway, a strategic east–west corridor running across central Algeria. Once fully operational, this modern line will provide continuous rail connectivity between eastern and western regions, linking major inland centres and strengthening national network integration.
Beyond these flagship projects, Algeria is pursuing further network reinforcement and expansion. This includes improving rail links between eastern ports and the country’s southern industrial hubs, as well as extending the network southwards along the Algiers–Tamanrasset axis through new long-distance corridors. These developments are intended to rebalance transport flows, improve access to remote regions, and enhance logistics efficiency for both freight and passenger movements.
The railway expansion forms part of a large-scale state-funded investment programme, which has already resulted in a substantial increase in total network length over recent years. Alongside infrastructure delivery, the national rail operator is preparing operational, staffing and service plans to support the phased commissioning of new lines, including passenger services and digital ticketing systems.
Collectively, the projects reflect Algeria’s strategy to use rail infrastructure as a catalyst for industrial development, regional integration and long-term economic diversification.