French Consortium Secures Contract to Expand Morocco's High-Speed Rail Network

Ambitious Project to Strengthen Morocco's Rail Connectivity and Economic Growth

In a decisive move to enhance its transportation infrastructure, Morocco's National Office of Railways (ONCF) has awarded a significant contract to a consortium led by the French engineering firm Egis Rail, in partnership with Systra and the Moroccan company Novec. This consortium will oversee the management of the high-speed rail extension from Kénitra to Marrakech, a project poised to connect major urban centers and stimulate economic development across the nation.

Despite a lower bid from Spanish competitor Ineco, which proposed a cost of 1.309 billion dirhams, the French-Moroccan consortium secured the contract with a bid of 1.385 billion dirhams (approximately USD 138.5 million). This decision underscores the ONCF's confidence in the consortium's expertise and ability to deliver on this critical infrastructure project.

High-Speed Connectivity

The project entails the extension of the high-speed rail line over a 450-kilometer stretch between Kénitra and Marrakech, designed to support train speeds of up to 320 km/h. The consortium's responsibilities include comprehensive project management and oversight, ensuring that the ambitious development meets international standards and timelines.

Clarification and Transparency

In November 2022, ONCF faced public confusion following a press release from Egis that prematurely suggested the high-speed rail project had been awarded solely to a French company. This announcement led to widespread media reports that inaccurately portrayed the involvement of Moroccan engineering in the project.

ONCF swiftly issued a clarification, emphasizing that Moroccan engineering remains at the forefront of the study phases, consistent with the international tender's national preference clause. The clarification aimed to reaffirm the collaborative nature of the project, highlighting the significant role of Moroccan expertise alongside international partners.

Strategic Importance

The extension of the high-speed rail line from Kénitra to Marrakech represents a pivotal component of Morocco's broader rail network expansion strategy. By linking major cities with high-speed rail, the project is expected to transform regional connectivity, reduce travel times, and foster economic growth through improved logistics and mobility.

As Morocco continues to invest in its infrastructure, the high-speed rail project stands as a testament to the nation's forward-thinking approach and commitment to sustainable development. The collaboration between Egis Rail, Systra, and Novec signifies a robust partnership poised to deliver a transformative project that will benefit Morocco for generations to come.