France Invests 2 Billion Euros in the Kénitra-Marrakech High-Speed Rail Project

Friday 03 January 2025 - 15:00

The Kénitra-Marrakech high-speed rail project, one of the most anticipated infrastructure initiatives in Morocco, is progressing rapidly. Aimed at modernizing the country's rail transport system, this ambitious project benefits from strong international cooperation and a complex financial framework. France, a long-standing strategic partner of Morocco, plays a crucial role in its realization. With an investment nearing 2 billion euros, this project is a symbol of the strengthened collaboration between the two nations, aligning with Morocco's broader goals of large-scale modernization in transportation.

Key discussions took place on December 26, 2024, between the Moroccan Minister of Transport and Logistics, Abdessamad Kayouh, and the French Ambassador to Morocco, Christophe Lecourtier. These talks were focused on strengthening bilateral ties in the railway sector. They underscored the close cooperation between the two countries, especially following the October 2024 signing of the "Enhanced Exceptional Partnership Declaration." This agreement has paved the way for the signing of four major accords, including one for financing the Kénitra-Marrakech line and supplying 18 high-speed trains from Alstom. The partnership also includes maintenance and industrial compensation components.

The Moroccan government has also launched a broad investment program valued at approximately 8 billion euros. This program encompasses high-speed rail lines (LGVs) and the renovation of the conventional rail network. It also includes the acquisition of 168 new trains, designed for various types of mobility, such as high-speed trains (TGVs), Intercity trains, and regional and metropolitan services.

In addition, an international tender has been initiated for the supply of self-propelled railcars, with a stipulation for industrial compensation to establish a local manufacturing facility in Morocco for the production of rail equipment. The goal of this tender is to maximize local integration, with a strong emphasis on technology transfer.

This initiative is part of a broader effort to support the export of rail products and strengthen the local economy by fostering the establishment of suppliers and subcontractors within Morocco. Key elements of the project include ramping up local production capacity, training personnel, and developing the local rail ecosystem. Morocco is also committed to promoting more sustainable and inclusive mobility, ensuring that new infrastructure meets the growing transport demands of the country.

This high-speed rail project not only represents a leap in Morocco's transportation capabilities but also strengthens the economic and industrial ties between Morocco and France, showcasing the potential for future collaboration in large-scale infrastructure development.