Morocco to build its first train carriage with goal of boosting domestic production

Morocco is set to build its first train carriage factory, aiming to boost domestic rail production and export to African markets

The project, revealed by Minister of Transport and Logistics Abdessamad Qaiouh, aims to meet the growing domestic demand for rail infrastructure and position Morocco as a regional leader in train manufacturing.

The new factory will not only supply the country’s national railway company, ONCF, but also export trains to other African nations. 

This initiative aligns with Morocco’s broader strategy to diversify its economy and reduce reliance on imports.

A substantial investment of 87 billion dirhams has been allocated to a new contractual program between the government and the national railway company. This funding will be used to develop the high-speed rail line and upgrade existing railway infrastructure.

Morocco has been committed to high-value-added industries in order to achieve industrial independence, create wealth, and boost productivity

The minister said that the new manufacturing plant will be constructed to produce high-speed train carriages, both for domestic use by the national railway company and for export.

The minister said that these projects will enhance the quality of rail services, citing the figure of 53 million passengers transported in 2023, with expectations of reaching 55 million by the end of the year.

Speaking about future developments, the minister announced that a new high-speed rail line connecting Kenitra and Marrakech will significantly reduce travel time from the current 5-6 hours to just 3 hours.

To further strengthen the railway network, the national railway company has unveiled a plan as part of its 2040 strategy that includes the construction of 1,300 kilometers of new high-speed rail lines and 3,800 kilometers of new conventional rail lines.

These expansions will connect 43 Moroccan cities, compared to 23 currently, and will ensure rail access for 87% of the population, up from the current 51%. 10 regional transportation hubs are also planned.

The minister said that these investments will not only revolutionize transportation within Morocco but also position the country as a regional leader in rail technology and manufacturing.

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