The Algiers Port Union (APU) has rebuffed privatization plans for Algeria's Mediterranean port of Algiers. APU leader Mamer Kermache went so far as to threaten a strike by its 3,600 workers if no satisfactory solution is reached regarding the workers' demands to manage port operations themselves.
The APU had resisted efforts by two Emirate firms, International Dubai Ports and World Ports and Free Zones Group, to engage in discussions to privatise Algiers' container terminal.
According to Kermache, the union stands opposed to the idea of conceding the terminal to the Emirate firms mostly because terminal operations form 70% of the port's entire income. Kermache said that the APU does not even want to hold any meetings regarding the issue.
However, International Dubai Ports vice-president Djamel Ben Theneia has said to the local press that negotiations with both Algeria's Shareholding and Transport Ministry are continuing and are already at an advanced stage.
The two Emirate firms, keen to take over operations, have suggested that privatisation would enable the port to advance its professionalism and evolve into a gateway for trade with Europe and the US.
The APU had resisted efforts by two Emirate firms, International Dubai Ports and World Ports and Free Zones Group, to engage in discussions to privatise Algiers' container terminal.
According to Kermache, the union stands opposed to the idea of conceding the terminal to the Emirate firms mostly because terminal operations form 70% of the port's entire income. Kermache said that the APU does not even want to hold any meetings regarding the issue.
However, International Dubai Ports vice-president Djamel Ben Theneia has said to the local press that negotiations with both Algeria's Shareholding and Transport Ministry are continuing and are already at an advanced stage.
The two Emirate firms, keen to take over operations, have suggested that privatisation would enable the port to advance its professionalism and evolve into a gateway for trade with Europe and the US.