Copper and gold discoveries in the Anti-Atlas illustrate Morocco’s ability to attract international investors and develop a globally competitive mining sector.
In Morocco’s Anti-Atlas, a region already known for its geological wealth, new discoveries of copper and gold deposits promise to strengthen Morocco’s position as a major player in the global mining sector. The British company Aterian, specializing in mining exploration, announced very encouraging results on its Azrar project, located approximately 155 kilometers southeast of Agadir. These discoveries confirm not only the untapped potential of the region, but also the strategic importance of this sector for the Moroccan economy.
The Azrar site benefits from a strategic location with an already well-developed road network, facilitating access to the infrastructure necessary for the extraction and transport of minerals. These favorable conditions reduce logistical costs and pave the way for rapid and efficient development of identified deposits. In addition, the Anti-Atlas is a region rich in mineral resources, long coveted by international companies for its subsoil full of precious and industrial metals.
According to Charles Bray, president of Aterian, these new discoveries illustrate Morocco’s considerable mining potential. “These results only confirm what we already knew: Morocco is a territory of opportunity in the exploration of critical metals such as copper and gold. These are essential resources to meet the challenges of the global energy transition,” he said.
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Copper, often nicknamed “the metal of electrification”, is essential for electricity infrastructure, electric vehicles and renewable technologies. As for gold, its economic value and its strategic role as a safe haven asset also place it at the center of global economic interests. By capitalizing on these resources, Morocco is part of an international dynamic where demand for these metals continues to grow.
Indeed, the global energy transition is putting increased pressure on raw material supply chains. Green technologies, such as solar panels, wind turbines and batteries, require increasing volumes of copper and other strategic metals. Morocco, by strengthening its production, could thus position itself as an essential supplier, attracting foreign investments and consolidating its role on the international market.
Morocco, an emerging mining power?
The mining sector already represents an important pillar of the Moroccan economy, contributing significantly to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) and exports. With some of the largest phosphate reserves in the world and diversified mining production, Morocco is well placed to expand its influence. The new copper and gold deposits discovered by Aterian could increase this dynamic, strengthening not only the country’s tax revenues, but also its attractiveness as a destination for investors.
In addition to the Azrar project, Aterian is carrying out explorations at other sites in Morocco, particularly for metals such as silver and zinc. These initiatives are part of a global strategy aimed at maximizing the geological potential of the country. The authorities, for their part, actively support investments in this sector through incentive policies, including clear regulatory frameworks and public-private partnerships.
The benefits of these projects go far beyond the economic framework. The development of the deposits could generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs, particularly in rural areas like the Anti-Atlas. In addition, these projects promote the transfer of skills and technologies, thereby strengthening local capacities. Improving local infrastructure, such as roads and energy facilities, could also benefit other economic sectors, contributing to the overall development of these regions.
