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China-Africa Trade Information Service
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Transport and Logistics Minister Abdessamad Kayouh announced yesterday that Morocco is set to begin constructing a train manufacturing plant aimed at supplying the National Railways Office (ONCF) and boosting exports across Africa.
Speaking before the House of Representatives, Kayouh outlined plans for the new facility to play a central role in expanding Morocco’s rail infrastructure and regional trade reach.
The project is part of a broader collaboration between the state and ONCF, backed by MAD 87 billion ($8.5 billion), aimed at advancing the high-speed rail network (TGV) and upgrading existing lines.
Kayouh noted that these initiatives are expected to improve service quality for Morocco’s rail users, with passenger numbers rising from 53 million in 2023 to a projected 55 million by the year’s end.
Speaking on future projects, he explained that the TGV line between Kenitra and Marrakech will reduce travel time to just three hours.
In response to questions on further network improvements, Kayouh outlined the ONCF’s 2040 plan, which envisions 1,300 kilometers of new high-speed rail and 3,800 kilometers of standard lines, extending connections from 23 to 43 cities.
This strategy strives to boost rail access to 87% of Morocco’s population, up from 51% currently and includes the establishment of 10 regional transport hubs.
In another development for Morocco’s railway sector, at the InnoTrans 2024 fair held in September, Morocco TraIndustry (MTI) president Mohammed Smouni discussed the cluster's goal to produce “Made in Morocco” trains.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy to bolster Morocco’s railway industry and drive economic growth. By focusing on local manufacturing, Morocco looks to reduce dependency on imports and develop a competitive domestic production sector.
