HAMBURG  - Algeria’s state grains agency OAIC purchased around 150,000 to 175,000 tonnes of durum wheat in a tender which closed on Thursday, European traders said on Friday.

It was thought to have purchased at around $295 to $296 a tonne c&f, they said.

The durum was optional origin but part of purchase was seen likely to be sourced from Mexico, they said.

Traders reported a change in technical specifications which could have created a barrier to French durum being offered in the tender.

The tender had sought shipment in May.

Volumes in Algeria's tenders are nominal and the country frequently purchases more than the volumes initially sought.

The country does not disclose the results of its tenders and purchase reports are based on trade assessments.

(Reporting by Michael Hogan) ((michael.j.hogan@thomsonreuters.com; +49 40 419 03 4275; Reuters Messaging: michael.hogan.thomsonreuters.com@reuters.net))