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Stellantis Starts Production in its Tafraoui Plant in Algeria

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Tafraoui Plant

The plant represents an initial investment of €200 million and will assemble 90,000 cars annually for Algerian market with over 35% localization rate

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ORAN, Algeria, December 27, 2023/APO Group/ — 

Stellantis (www.Stellantis.com) delivers on its commitment made in November 2022; The plant represents an initial investment of €200 million and will assemble 90,000 cars annually for Algerian market with over 35% localization rate; This strategic move illustrates a long-term commitment to the development of the Algerian automotive industry, job creation, and technology transfer; Letter of Intent signed aiming to accelerate Stellantis contribution to the development of the Automotive Ecosystem in Algeria; Algeria will play a key role in Stellantis Middle East and Africa Dare Forward plan to become one of the leading automotive players in the region with a strong industrial footfprint and a production capacity of over 1 million vehicles per year.

Stellantis delivers on the commitment made in November 2022 announcing the start of production in its manufacturing plant in Tafraoui – Algeria, a  strategic move to bolster the development of the country automotive sector through localized manufacturing of Fiat models, including Fiat 500 and Fiat Doblò, and to further strengthen Stellantis’ market share in the Middle East and Africa region.

The inauguration ceremony, chaired by Mr. Ali Aoun, Minister of Industry and Pharmaceutical Production, featured Mr. Carlos Tavares, Stellantis Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Valentino Valentini, Vice Minister of Enterprises and Made in Italy, HE. Mr. Giovanni Pugliese, Ambassador of Italy in Algeria, Mr. Saïd Saayoud, Wali of Oran, Mr. Samir Cherfan, Stellantis Middle East and Africa Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Olivier François, FIAT Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Florian Huettl, Opel and Vauxhall Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Arnaud DEBOEUF, Chief Manufacturing Officer and Mr. Hakim Boutehra, Managing Director of Stellantis Algeria, Tunisia.

On this occasion, a Letter of Intent has been signed between Stellantis and the Algerian Authorities to accelerate Stellantis contribution to the development of the Automotive Industry; a step 2 ambition, in terms of production capacity, local integration rate and the creation of a Stellantis Academy in partnership with the Algerian Education Ministries. This new phase is associated with conditions of success that are being discussed between the two parties.

“Today, a letter of intent regarding the expansion of Stellantis’ industrial project in Algeria will be signed to increase the production capacity of this plant, which will be oriented towards the local and export markets,” declared Ali Aoun, Minister of Industry and Pharmaceutical Production, during his speech. “We, as public authorities, commit to ensuring the support of all investment projects aimed at creating wealth and employment.”

This strategic move illustrates a long-term commitment to the development of the Algerian automotive industry, job creation, and technology transfer

“Our Dare Forward 2030 plan envisioned Algeria being cemented into Stellantis’ regional future, and today we’re proud to have followed through on this plan by bringing Fiat brand to the country and providing great models to our Algerian customers through the manufacturing of the cars in Algeria,” said Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares. “This is the beginning of a journey of growth and development for the benefit of the citizens of Tafraoui and Algerian customers. With today’s further announcement, we are poised to increase our commitment towards the country”.

This development follows the automotive specifications agreement signed in November 2022 with the Algerian Investment Promotion Agency (AAPI), confirming a framework agreement signed on October 13, 2022. The agreement initiated the development of industrial, aftersales, and spare parts activities for FIAT. Stellantis and its suppliers have committed an initial investment exceeding €200 million for the manufacturing of four models.

The Tafraoui plant, covering an area of 80 acres, will initially have an annual assembly capacity of 90,000 cars, featuring a range of four models, beginning with the Fiat 500 and the Fiat Doblò. In 2024, we aim to produce 40 000 units in SKD. The plant will reach 90 000 units in CKD including painting welding and stamping by 2026.

The industrial project has already created 500 direct jobs in Algeria in 2023, with the aim of reaching 1,200 jobs by end of 2024 and 2,000 jobs by 2026. In addition, the local supplier ecosystem will create over 1,600 indirect jobs by 2026.

Stellantis is committed to supporting Algerian authorities in developing the automotive industry and serve Algerian customers. The long-term commitment also includes developing a local supplier’s ecosystem and achieving a localization rate surpassing 35% in 2026, two years ahead of the regulatory threshold of 30%.

Additionally, knowledge and technology transfer are key and will be focusing on mastering advanced technologies, including electrified and electric vehicles. The current Stellantis and Suppliers operational teams have already undergone 125,000 hours of training in 2023; while the network staff has been trained over 15 000 hours. In addition, an “Automotive” University Diploma has been created for the factory technical and management teams and processes to guarantee Customer Satisfaction have been developed and deployed across the commercial network.

Stellantis launched its commercial operations in Algeria in March this year and has had a very strong ramp-up, closing the year with more than 50 points of sales covering 65% of the Algerian territory while offering 9 models and 2 brands: Fiat and Opel; with a team with close to 900 people and a robust logistics setting to deliver daily cars to our esteemed Algerian customers.

As part of this commitment, Algeria is positioned to become an export platform for Stellantis in the Middle East and Africa region. Benefiting from the advantages offered by Algeria, Stellantis aims to position the country as a strategic hub for automotive production.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Stellantis.

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CLG Workshop at Congo Energy & Investment Forum (CEIF) 2025 to Address Legal and Strategic Solutions in Congo

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Energy Capital

CLG will lead a workshop at the inaugural Congo Energy & Investment Forum that will focus on navigating Congo’s energy investment landscape

BRAZZAVILLE, Congo (Republic of the), March 14, 2025/APO Group/ –The inaugural Congo Energy & Investment Forum (CEIF), taking place from March 24-26 in Brazzaville, will feature a workshop led by legal firm CLG (formerly Centurion Law Group) that aims to address the unique challenges faced in Congo’s energy investment sector. As part of a strategy to spur energy investment and socioeconomic development, the Republic of Congo has initiated a number of strategies to drive resource monetization, project development and local capacity building.

As such, the Mastering Business in Congo: Legal Challenges and Strategic Solutions for Success session will take place on 24 March, offering an understanding of the legal structures underpinning corporate law, taxation, immigration, labor law and regulatory compliance. During the session, a panel of legal experts from CLG will delve into all aspects of growing investments in the African energy sector, offering insights into the legal nuances that can directly influence investments decisions.

Set to showcase how Congo’s investment landscape can accelerate monetization of the country’s natural resources, CLG’s experience in the African market has the potential to empower businesses with effective management skills and knowledge for participating in Congo’s energy sector. The country is set to release its Gas Master Plan (https://apo-opa.co/3DF5fSI) and new Gas Code (https://apo-opa.co/3Fsijey) at CEIF 2025, with a promise to reducing energy imports in the country and raising electricity access for its population, which currently stands at 50%.

Meanwhile, Congo is also preparing to launch an international oil and gas licensing round (https://apo-opa.co/4bu0dF8) at CEIF 2025, aiming to attract investment in both marginal and deepwater blocks. This initiative is part of the country’s strategy to increase oil production from the current 274,000 barrels per day (bpd) to 500,000 bpd by 2027. These major developments align with Congo’s broader national goals to mitigate production declines and stimulate further exploration on- and offshore. are expected to usher in a new wave of investment in sub-Saharan Africa’s fourth largest oil producing market.

This workshop, led by CLG, is a pivotal opportunity for investors and stakeholders to gain valuable insights into the legal frameworks that underpin the energy market

The Mastering Business in Congo: Legal Challenges and Strategic Solutions for Success will offer attendees the opportunity to master the complex regulatory landscape and learn how it affects various investment types within the energy sector. During the session, CLG will provide delegates with knowledge to develop actionable strategies to mitigate legal risks and safeguard investments from future potential strategies.

“At CEIF 2025, we recognize that navigating the complex legal and regulatory landscape is crucial for successful investment in Congo’s growing energy sector. This workshop, led by CLG, is a pivotal opportunity for investors and stakeholders to gain valuable insights into the legal frameworks that underpin the energy market. By addressing key challenges and offering strategic solutions, we aim to empower businesses with the knowledge to unlock the full potential of Congo’s energy resources,” states Daoudou Mohammad, Tax and Legal Director, CLG.

CLG is a leading provider of specialized legal and tax advisory services, catering to a diverse portfolio of multinational companies operating globally. With a team of experts boasting extensive experience and knowledge across multiple sectors and with offices in Germany, South Africa, Nigeria, Mauritius, Ghana, the Republic of Congo, Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, Namibia and South Sudan; CLG delivers bespoke solutions tailored to address the unique challenges and complexities faced by clients in various industries.

CLG’s expertise spans a wide range of industries – including energy, infrastructure, mining, agriculture, and ESG to name a few –  enabling the firm to provide comprehensive guidance and support to clients navigating Africa’s dynamic business landscape. By combining technical excellence with a deep understanding of local markets and regulatory environments, CLG helps clients achieve their business objectives and capitalize on opportunities for growth and expansion.

Registration (https://apo-opa.co/3FspgMZ) for the workshop is now open.

The inaugural Congo Energy & Investment Forum, set for March 24-26, in Brazzaville, under the patronage of President Denis Sassou Nguesso and supported by the Ministry of Hydrocarbons and Société Natioanle des Pétroles du Congo, will bring together international investors and local stakeholders to explore national and regional energy and infrastructure opportunities. The event will explore the latest gas-to-power projects and provide updates on ongoing expansions across the country.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

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Moscow Fashion Week: Creating Fresh Opportunities for Africa’s Fashion Industry

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Moscow Fashion Week

The Julia Dalakian brand is set to present an exceptional blend of raffia and denim toughness with the grace of flowing chiffon and silky knitwear on the Moscow Fashion Week runway

MOSCOW, Russia, March 14, 2025/APO Group/ –From March 13 to 18, the grandeur of Moscow Fashion Week (www.MoscowFashion.ru) will sweep over the Russian capital, encapsulating the essence of the fashion season. This prestigious event serves as a global stage for African designers to unveil their creative prowess to the world. In addition to designers and fashion experts, Moscow Fashion Week will also be attended by media representatives, as well as buyers and business representatives from various countries.

The textile industry plays a vital role in Africa’s manufacturing sector, providing employment to over 500,000 individuals within its cotton mills alone. As Africa sets its sights on expanding into uncharted markets, Moscow Fashion Week emerges as a vital nexus, facilitating connections between the vibrant fashion landscapes of Africa, Europe, Asia, and beyond. Over 200 designers from countries like Russia, Spain, the USA, India, China, and Indonesia will participate in different formats of Moscow Fashion Week.

Showcasing at such a large event like Moscow Fashion Week with curious minds working behind the scenes will give us a chance to grow

The spotlight will undoubtedly shine on South African designer, MUSAWENKOSi, as he unveils his meticulously curated collection in Moscow, where every intricate detail demands attention and admiration.

“Moscow Fashion Week exposes designers to a broader audience, including industry professionals, media, and potential clients, helping build brand identity.  Showcasing at such a large event like Moscow Fashion Week with curious minds working behind the scenes will give us a chance to grow,” said the designer.

Russian designers will also captivate attention with their striking collections and unique portrayal of fashion trends. Some Moscow Fashion Week participants have already garnered acclaim from fashion experts in Africa; for instance, designer Darya Kipriyanova garnered success at the Hub of Africa Fashion Week in Ethiopia in January 2025. The Julia Dalakian brand is set to present an exceptional blend of raffia and denim toughness with the grace of flowing chiffon and silky knitwear on the Moscow Fashion Week runway. Russian designer Galina Podzolko emphasizes absolute femininity, traditional elegant silhouettes, and luxurious fabrics in her creations.

A pivotal objective of the upcoming Moscow Fashion Week (https://apo-opa.co/43NPZ0h) is to foster the relationships within the global fashion community, uniting diverse countries through the medium of fashion. This international platform serves as a crucial catalyst in propelling the African fashion industry forward, underscoring the importance for local brands to actively engage in such monumental international events.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Moscow Fashion Week.

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The African Energy Chamber (AEC) Thanks Trump Administration for Supporting Mozambique Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Project 

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African Energy Chamber

The African Energy Chamber commends the Trump administration for its continued support of the Mozambique LNG project, following the re-authorization of a crucial $4.7 billion loan by the U.S. Export-Import Bank

MAPUTO, Mozambique, March 14, 2025/APO Group/ –The African Energy Chamber (AEC) (https://EnergyChamber.org), as the voice of Africa’s energy sector, expresses its sincere appreciation to the Trump administration for its unwavering support in advancing the Mozambique LNG project, a monumental initiative led by TotalEnergies that is set to reshape the energy landscape in Mozambique and across Africa. The U.S. Export-Import Bank has approved its $4.7 billion loan for the project, a decision that provides a much-needed boost to one of the continent’s most significant energy investments.

The reauthorization of this funding marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing development of Mozambique’s natural gas resources, which have the potential to transform the nation’s economy and solidify Africa’s position in the global energy market. The approval, initially granted during the Trump administration’s first term, signals a critical shift in US policy – one that recognizes the importance of US leadership in fostering energy security and economic development in Africa.

This project, which has been on hold since 2021 due to security concerns in the Cabo Delgado province, is now positioned to proceed thanks to the renewed backing from the U.S. The Mozambique LNG project represents one of the largest LNG investments in Africa – reaching a landmark $20 billion final investment decision in 2019 – with the potential to not only stimulate the Mozambican economy, but also provide a key source of natural gas to meet the growing energy demands of Asia and other international markets. Targeting approximately 65 trillion cubic feet of recoverable natural gas, the project features a planned capacity of 13 MTPA with expansion capacity of up to 43 MTPA, playing a crucial role in the global transition to more sustainable energy sources.

The AEC encourages ongoing collaboration between governments, investors and development partners to ensure the successful delivery of the Mozambique LNG project

The decision to approve the funding will also support American jobs, as U.S. subcontractors are expected to receive up to 30% of the contract value, further strengthening the economic ties between the U.S. and Africa. This partnership demonstrates the value of American investment in African natural gas and energy development, underscoring the shared commitment to global energy security.

This development underscores the Trump administration’s recognition of the crucial role energy investments play in fostering economic growth, security and stability in Africa. By backing the Mozambique LNG project, the administration has reinforced its commitment to strengthening US influence in the region while contributing to a more diversified global energy mix. This decision also sets a strong precedent for future energy projects in Africa, signaling to international stakeholders that the US remains a reliable partner in driving sustainable development. The Mozambique LNG project is not only key to unlocking economic potential, but also serves as a model for future U.S.-backed initiatives focused on energy infrastructure, job creation and sustainable growth across the continent.

“The AEC encourages ongoing collaboration between governments, investors and development partners to ensure the successful delivery of the Mozambique LNG project and similar ventures across Africa,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber, adding “The support of the U.S. government, along with the efforts of TotalEnergies and other key stakeholders is essential in driving Africa’s transition to a more diversified and sustainable energy future.”

Looking ahead, it is crucial for other international partners to reaffirm their commitment to the Mozambique LNG project, helping ensure it stays on track to reach its full potential. The development of Mozambique’s natural gas reserves is not merely an investment in energy – it is an investment in Africa’s future. With continued support from the U.S. and global partners, this vision will become a reality.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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