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Morocco Showcases Ambitious 'Made in Morocco' Railway Vision at Global Trade Fair

Morocco Showcases Ambitious 'Made in Morocco' Railway Vision at Global Trade Fair
Friday 27 September 2024 - 16:20
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Morocco is making waves in the global railway industry with its bold "Made in Morocco" vision, unveiled at the prestigious InnoTrans 2024 trade fair in Berlin. The Morocco TraIndustry (MTI) cluster, a collaborative initiative aimed at revitalizing the nation's railway sector, made its debut appearance at the world's leading mobility and rail transport exhibition.

InnoTrans 2024, held from September 24 to 27, brought together nearly 3,000 exhibitors from 59 countries, showcasing over 200 global innovations across a vast 200,000 square meter exhibition space. The event highlighted cutting-edge developments in railway technology, infrastructure, public transport, interior design, and tunnel construction.

MTI's participation at InnoTrans 2024 served as a platform to promote Morocco's ambitious railway development plan. The cluster aims to establish an integrated national ecosystem that combines public and private operators, with a strong emphasis on technological innovation to drive economic and social benefits.

Mohammed Smouni, President of MTI and deputy director general of the National Railway Office (ONCF), emphasized the cluster's goal of uniting diverse industrial stakeholders within a comprehensive national ecosystem. "Ultimately, the cluster aims to manufacture 'Made in Morocco' trains for export," Smouni stated, highlighting the country's vision to become a key player in the global railway industry.

This initiative is part of a broader strategy to strengthen Morocco's railway sector and stimulate economic growth. By prioritizing local production, the country seeks to reduce its reliance on imports and foster a competitive manufacturing sector. The ecosystem already includes prominent Moroccan and international industrial partners, such as Alstom, along with specialized startups, universities, and research institutions.

ONCF Director General Mohamed Rabie Khlie presented Morocco's new railway development program during the event. The program includes plans to extend the high-speed rail line to Marrakech, launch local transport projects, acquire new trains, and renew the current fleet.

Morocco's efforts in the railway sector received international recognition at the trade fair. German Federal Minister for Digital Affairs and Transport, Volker Wissing, praised Morocco's partnership in mobility, transport, and rail initiatives, further solidifying the country's growing reputation in the industry.

As Morocco continues to advance its railway sector, the country is also making strides in other areas of sustainable transportation. The nation is leveraging its strategic ports along key shipping routes to pursue green hydrogen initiatives, aiming for sustainable decarbonization within an environmentally safe framework.

With its ambitious "Made in Morocco" vision and growing presence on the global stage, Morocco is positioning itself as an emerging force in the railway industry. As the country continues to invest in infrastructure, technology, and human capital, it may well become a significant player in shaping the future of rail transport both regionally and internationally.


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