The high-speed line project linking Kenitra to Marrakech, one of the most anticipated projects in Morocco for the coming years, is progressing quickly. This project, aimed at modernizing the country’s rail transport, is supported by solid international cooperation and a complex financial package. In particular, France, Morocco’s strategic partner for many years, plays a key role in the realization of this project. With an investment of nearly 2 billion euros, this strategic project illustrates the strengthened collaboration between the two nations and is part of a dynamic of ambitious modernization of transport on a large scale.
To make this project a reality, discussions took place on Thursday, December 26, 2024, between the Minister of Transport and Logistics, Abdessamad Kayouh, and Christophe Lecourtier, Ambassador of the French Republic to Morocco, in order to strengthen bilateral ties in the sector. railway. These exchanges highlighted the close cooperative relations between the two nations, particularly within the framework of the Declaration relating to “Exceptional partnership strengthened”signed last October by the leaders of the two countries. This partnership enabled the signing of four agreements, including one relating to the financing of the Kenitra-Marrakech line and the supply of 18 Alstom brand high-speed trains, as well as a maintenance and industrial compensation component.
Read also: Import-export: Fall in unit value indices in Q3-2024
Along the same path to success, Morocco has launched a vast investment program of around 8 billion euros including high-speed lines (LGV) and the renovation of the conventional network. It also includes the acquisition of new trains, in particular 168 units intended for various types of mobility, such as high-speed trains (TGV), Intercity, regional and metropolitan trains.
In addition, an international call for tenders was launched for the supply of railcars, with the addition of an industrial compensation clause aimed at installing an industrial project in Morocco, relating to the local production of railway equipment. This call for tenders aims to maximize local integration, with a strong emphasis on the transfer of technology from the country.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to support the export of railway products and strengthen the local economy, by promoting the establishment of suppliers and subcontractors in Morocco. The increase in production capacity, the training of local personnel and the development of the local railway ecosystem are essential elements of this project. Morocco also intends to promote more sustainable and inclusive mobility, by ensuring that new infrastructure meets the country’s growing transport needs.
Morocco
