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Morocco's Phosphate Industry Leaps Forward with $33 Million Tech Upgrade

Morocco's Phosphate Industry Leaps Forward with $33 Million Tech Upgrade
Tuesday 01 - 13:00
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In a significant move to bolster its phosphate production capabilities, Morocco's OCP Group has partnered with global mining technology leader Weir Group PLC in a £25 million (approximately $33 million) deal. This collaboration aims to introduce cutting-edge, energy-efficient solutions to OCP's Benguerir and Louta phosphate projects, marking a substantial step towards sustainable development in Morocco's crucial phosphate sector.

The contract primarily focuses on advancing the Benguerir project, which is set to triple its output, while also supporting the ongoing construction of the greenfield Louta site. Weir will supply its state-of-the-art WARMAN® slurry pump and CAVEX® hydrocyclone technology, renowned for their energy efficiency and sustainable design. These innovations are expected to optimize separation and desliming processes, enhancing productivity while aligning with OCP's environmental objectives.

The Benguerir expansion is scheduled to commence production in 2024, following the completion of the project's initial phase. With a projected lifespan exceeding 100 years, this site is poised to play a pivotal role in Morocco's phosphate industry for generations to come.

Weir's involvement extends beyond equipment supply, as the company will provide ongoing aftermarket technical support. This comprehensive service will be managed by Weir's Moroccan service center, strategically located near the project sites to ensure seamless integration and maintenance.

Jon Stanton, CEO of Weir Group, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, "This contract strongly endorses our WARMAN® and CAVEX® solutions, which offer energy-efficient separation at scale to support our customer's productivity and sustainability goals." He added that the local team takes pride in continuing to deliver world-class service to OCP as they progress with these exciting projects.

While the £25 million contract represents a significant addition to Weir's portfolio, the company has indicated that it will not impact its financial outlook for 2024.

This strategic investment underscores OCP Group's position as a world-leading producer of phosphate and its role as a driving force behind Morocco's economic growth and global leadership in the fertilizer industry. The expansion of the Benguerir and Louta projects demonstrates OCP's commitment to meeting the world's increasing demand for agricultural products while prioritizing sustainability and innovation.

As global agricultural needs continue to grow, this technological upgrade in Morocco's phosphate industry could have far-reaching implications for food security and sustainable farming practices worldwide. The collaboration between OCP and Weir Group exemplifies how strategic partnerships and technological advancements can drive progress in critical industries, balancing productivity with environmental responsibility.


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