Morocco climbs to 15th globally in Fraser Institute mining ranking

Wednesday 04 March 2026 - 15:50

By: Dakir Madiha

Morocco climbs to 15th globally in Fraser Institute mining ranking

Morocco has strengthened its position as a leading destination for mining investment, ranking 15th worldwide in the Fraser Institute’s Annual Survey of Mining Companies for 2025.

The report assessed 68 mining jurisdictions globally, including 14 in Africa. It drew on responses from 256 mining and exploration companies collected between August and November. The survey measures investment appeal through its Investment Attractiveness Index, which combines geological potential with the Policy Perception Index evaluating government policy and regulatory conditions.

Morocco achieved a score of 78.97 out of 100, rising by 4.27 points compared with the previous year. The improvement places the country second in Africa for mining investment attractiveness, behind Botswana, which entered the global top ten.

The rise reflects stronger evaluations of Morocco’s mineral potential, which gained 2.73 points, and a 6.59 point increase in perceptions of government policy toward mining. These gains point to growing confidence among international investors in the country’s regulatory framework and geological prospects.

Despite the progress, companies participating in the survey highlighted several concerns. Investors cited limitations in the quality of geological data, the efficiency of the legal system, and uncertainty surrounding regulatory enforcement. Analysts say improvements in these areas could further strengthen Morocco’s competitiveness as a mining destination.

Across Africa, the survey indicates renewed momentum for mining investment. Botswana leads the continent with a score of 85.99, followed by Morocco, Zambia, Tanzania, and Côte d’Ivoire. Several countries, including Côte d’Ivoire and Zambia, recorded notable gains, suggesting broader confidence in the region’s regulatory and institutional environment.

Morocco’s improved global ranking signals increasing international interest in its mining sector. According to the Fraser Institute, the country’s progress reflects regulatory reforms, infrastructure development, and ongoing geological exploration programs.

Mining remains a strategic sector in Morocco’s economy, particularly through phosphate production and the development of critical minerals. The improved ranking underscores the country’s potential to attract new investment and strengthen partnerships in an increasingly competitive global mining industry.