Koch Industries Seeks 50% Stake in Jorf Fertilizers Company I

In a significant move within the Moroccan phosphate and fertilizer industry, Koch Industries, an American conglomerate, is planning to acquire a 50 percent stake in Jorf Fertilizers Company I (JFC1) through its subsidiary, KAES Phosphate Holdings. The Moroccan Competition Council (_Conseil de la concurrence_) is currently reviewing this proposed joint venture with the OCP Group, a state-owned enterprise that dominates the phosphate market in Morocco.

According to the Moroccan Competition Council, the notification regarding this merger proposal has been received, indicating that KAES Phosphate Holdings intends to gain joint control of JFC1 alongside its current sole owner, OCP Nutricrops. This subsidiary of OCP specializes in the production of fertilizers and phosphoric acid, making it a key player in the industry.

Overview of Jorf Fertilizers Company I

Headquartered in Casablanca, JFC1 operates three integrated production facilities situated in Jorf Lasfar, where it specializes in the processing of phosphoric acid and the manufacturing of phosphate fertilizers as well as sulfuric acid. This specialized production capacity positions JFC1 as a crucial component within the Moroccan fertilizer landscape.

KAES Phosphate Holdings, based in Wilmington, Delaware, is under the control of Koch, Inc., which boasts a diversified portfolio that spans several sectors, including oil refining, chemicals, fertilizers, commodity trading, and forest products. The potential investment by Koch Industries not only underscores the attractiveness of the Moroccan market but also highlights the growing interest of international players in this sector.

The Moroccan Competition Council's publication of this merger summary is part of the legally mandated merger control process established under Law No. 104-12 concerning pricing freedom and competition. Interested parties and market participants have a window of ten days to submit their comments regarding the proposed acquisition to the authority, with the deadline set for October 19, 2026. After this period, the council will decide on the approval of the joint acquisition after reviewing the submissions from market participants.

As reported by maghreb-post.de.