IEA: Morocco strengthens its global position in electric vehicle battery materials

Wednesday 29 July 2026 - 16:00

By: Azzat Manal

IEA: Morocco strengthens its global position in electric vehicle battery materials

Morocco is emerging as an increasingly important player in the global supply chain for electric vehicle batteries, supported by its substantial phosphate resources, strategic location and expanding industrial base, according to the International Energy Agency’s latest analysis of critical minerals.

The country holds an estimated 70% of the world’s phosphate reserves, giving it a strong foundation for developing higher-value industries linked to battery production. While Morocco currently accounts for around 15% of global phosphate output, the country has significant potential to expand production and increase domestic processing.

The International Energy Agency expects Morocco to become a major global producer of purified phosphoric acid, a key material used in the production of lithium iron phosphate, or LFP, battery cathodes. The country could account for approximately 5% of global production capacity for purified phosphoric acid by 2035.

The growing importance of LFP technology is strengthening the strategic value of Morocco’s phosphate industry. LFP batteries accounted for an estimated 55% of global electric vehicle sales in 2025, compared with around 15% in 2020, reflecting the rapid expansion of a battery technology that relies heavily on phosphate-based materials.

Morocco is also expected to play a larger role in diversifying global supply chains for purified phosphoric acid. Alongside the United States and Canada, the Kingdom could account for more than 55% of production projects outside China by 2035, potentially helping Western markets reduce their dependence on Chinese supply chains.

Market conditions are also increasing interest in the sector. The price of purified phosphoric acid rose by more than 4% during the first quarter of 2026, exceeding $1,500 per metric ton, amid higher raw material costs and geopolitical pressures affecting the energy and mineral markets.

Morocco’s trade relationships with the European Union and the United States provide another advantage for manufacturers operating in the country. These agreements can facilitate access to major Western markets and strengthen the attractiveness of Morocco as a production and export hub.

The combination of abundant phosphate resources, developing industrial infrastructure and access to international markets has also attracted interest from major Chinese companies seeking to expand their presence in battery-related manufacturing. Their investments could contribute to the production of battery materials and components in Morocco for export to European and American markets.

As global demand for electric vehicles and energy storage continues to grow, Morocco’s position in the battery materials industry is expected to become increasingly strategic. The country’s ability to move from raw material production toward advanced processing and manufacturing could strengthen its role in the global transition toward cleaner transportation and energy technologies.