Belgian group Etex has acquired a majority stake in Global Gypse Company, an Algerian firm specializing in the production of plasterboard, metal systems, and building finishing solutions. This significant transaction marks the official entry of Etex into the Algerian market, further expanding its presence in the North African region. This strategic move is particularly noteworthy as it signifies Etex's first official presence in Algeria, a market with significant growth potential in the construction sector. Global Gypse Company operates exclusively in Algeria, focusing on materials key for the second-phase construction work, including plasterboard, metal systems, and various finishing solutions for buildings. This strategic acquisition is set to bolster Etex's operational footprint and market reach within the Mediterranean Basin, aligning with its broader objectives for international expansion.
Global Gypse's Algerian Operations
Global Gypse Company has established itself as one of the major players in Algeria's plaster industry, carving out a significant niche through its specialized production. The firm operates a modern facility located in Mascara, a strategically important area near Oran. This ultramodern plant commenced operations in 2022, quickly contributing to the company's strong position within the Algerian market by leveraging advanced production capabilities. Its operations are primarily focused on the production of plasterboard, essential metal systems, and a range of building finishing solutions. These materials are critical for construction projects, particularly in the second-phase work of building development, which includes interior finishing and other essential elements. The company's presence in Mascara shows its strategic positioning to serve the Algerian construction sector effectively and efficiently, providing high-quality materials for a rapidly developing market. Global Gypse Company currently employs nearly 200 people, making a notable contribution to local employment and the Algerian economy through its industrial activities. The company's dedication to local manufacturing and job creation further solidifies its role as a key contributor to regional development.
Etex's African Expansion Strategy
Etex has maintained a strong presence on the African continent through multiple establishments, including existing operations in South Africa and Nigeria. Across Africa, Etex employs nearly 600 individuals, demonstrating its significant commitment to the region, and operates several industrial sites. The global gypsum industry is projected to experience an annual growth exceeding 4% through 2032, noting the strategic importance of this sector for Etex and its long-term growth prospects. This projection shows the rationale behind Etex's investment in Global Gypse Company, positioning it to capitalize on the increasing demand for gypsum-based products. The company's global reach is extensive, employing approximately 13,500 staff members worldwide across its diverse operations. In 2025, the Etex group recorded a substantial turnover of 3.747 billion euros, reflecting its significant economic scale and market influence. During the same year, the group achieved a REBITDA (Recurring Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization) of 698 million euros, reflecting its strong financial performance and operational efficiency. This acquisition aligns with Etex's broader strategy to capitalize on growth opportunities in developing markets for building materials, leveraging its global expertise to foster local development.
Synergies and Future Outlook
The transaction marks Etex's official entry into the Algerian market, a strategic move within the Mediterranean Basin that significantly enhances its regional footprint. Algeria becomes the 47th country where the Etex group has established a presence, reflecting its continued global expansion and commitment to international growth. This milestone shows Etex's ambition to extend its operational network into promising new territories. The Belgian group anticipates that its extensive experience and global expertise will significantly support Global Gypse Company in its growth within Algeria and potentially lead to further development and expansion in the broader Maghreb region. Etex aims to capitalize on Global Gypse's established local market position and production capabilities, integrating them into its wider operational network. This integration is expected to strengthen Etex's footprint in North Africa, complementing its existing operations in other parts of the continent and fostering new synergies in product development and market access. The acquisition aligns smoothly with Etex's strategy to expand its reach in developing markets for building materials, leveraging local expertise with global standards to drive innovation and sustainable growth.
Leadership Perspectives
Algeria boasts a population exceeding 45 million inhabitants, representing a significant and growing market for construction materials and related industries. This demographic reality shows the strategic value of Global Gypse Company's operations, as a large and expanding population drives demand for new infrastructure and housing. Global Gypse Company currently employs nearly 200 people, contributing substantially to the local economy and community through job creation and industrial activity, providing stable employment opportunities in the Mascara region. This acquisition expands Etex's operational footprint significantly, with the Belgian group now exceeding 190 industrial sites worldwide, reflecting its vast global manufacturing and distribution network capable of supporting diverse markets. Etex's strategy involves leveraging Global Gypse's established local market position and production capabilities to further its growth objectives in the region, aiming for sustained development and market penetration. The combination of Etex's global capabilities and Global Gypse's local expertise is expected to create a powerful synergy, driving innovation and market leadership in Algeria's construction sector, offering advanced building solutions to meet the country's evolving needs.