Sinopec, China’s state-owned oil giant, has released its first sustainability report in Algeria, showcasing its contributions to the economic, social, and environmental development of the North African country. The report, titled Sustainability Report on Serving the Construction of the Belt and Road – Sinopec in Algeria, was unveiled in Algiers on December 27. It marks the first such report from a Chinese company operating in Algeria and highlights Sinopec’s commitment to supporting the country’s vision for a “New Algeria.”
Algeria, Africa’s largest country by land area and the fourth-largest economy on the continent, has seen growing ties with Sinopec, particularly in the oil and gas sectors. The company’s operations in Algeria focus on oil exploration, petroleum engineering, refining, and chemical engineering. Sinopec has also deepened its partnership with Algeria’s national oil company, SONATRACH, through a new agreement related to the Zarzaitine oilfield, a key area of development for both parties.
The report emphasises Sinopec’s commitment to balancing economic growth with environmental protection and social responsibility. One notable initiative is the desert water pipeline project in Tamanrasset, which has provided clean drinking water to 50,000 local residents. This project won the Outstanding Contribution Award for Sino-Algerian cooperation.
Sinopec’s approach to sustainable development is rooted in its strict adherence to safety and environmental protection regulations in Algeria. The company invests heavily in safety management, with a particular focus on environmental control, green construction practices, and biodiversity protection. In the Zarzaitine oilfield, Sinopec has set up an electrical safety committee that conducted 42 HSE (Health, Safety, and Environmental) inspections and invested $3.12 million in safety and environmental measures.
The company has also made significant contributions to the local community. Sinopec provides nearly 1,000 jobs at the Zarzaitine oilfield, offering local workers opportunities for career development and personal growth. The company’s corporate social responsibility efforts go beyond employment, with projects that include voluntary tree planting, waste cleaning, and a variety of public welfare initiatives. For example, Sinopec has repaired wells in Algeria’s desert hinterland to provide clean water to remote areas and donated medical supplies to local hospitals.
In addition to its environmental and social commitments, Sinopec has sought to foster cultural exchange between China and Algeria. The company has organised cultural events, celebrated local festivals, and established the “China Bookshelf” project to encourage cultural understanding. Its efforts to support local education, such as providing school supplies to students, have also been well received.
Through its sustainability report, Sinopec aims to underline its role not only as a business partner but also as a responsible corporate citizen contributing to Algeria’s long-term development. By integrating oil and gas exploration with social progress and environmental stewardship, Sinopec seeks to create a lasting, mutually beneficial relationship with the people of Algeria.