The Spanish Federation of Railway Industries (Mafex) has highlighted Morocco's growing significance in the transportation and logistics sector, asserting that the country has developed into a strategic platform linking Europe and Africa. This transformation positions Morocco as a pivotal base for attracting modern railway projects and developing the associated infrastructure.
A recent report by Mafex, which focuses on cybersecurity, digital technologies, and international markets, indicates that Morocco has secured a prominent position among priority markets for Spanish companies involved in railway engineering, rolling stock, signaling systems, electrical maintenance, as well as digital solutions and consulting services.
The increasing interest from Spain in the Moroccan market is attributed to a series of projects and agreements that have intensified since 2024, making Morocco one of the leading investment destinations in the railway sector across the Mediterranean region and Africa. Within this framework, Mafex noted that Spanish firms expressed early interest in Morocco's major projects aimed at modernizing and expanding its railway network, which has since translated into concrete contracts. These include the execution of studies for urban rail transport projects in the cities of Tangier and Tetouan, as well as preparatory studies for the railway line connecting Oued Zem and Beni Mellal.
The report also highlighted a significant milestone in bilateral cooperation, exemplified by the signing of a Spanish financing agreement exceeding 750 million euros for the acquisition of 40 intercity trains for Morocco. The Spanish company CAF won the contract to supply the kingdom with trains capable of reaching speeds of up to 200 kilometers per hour.
Mafex confirmed that these initiatives align with Morocco's vision extending to 2040, aiming to expand railway coverage to reach the majority of the population. This vision includes connecting over 40 cities to the railway network, enhancing the high-speed train network, and linking major ports and airports to the national grid.
The report emphasized that Morocco has become a “hub for transportation and logistics in North Africa,” thanks to its geographical location, which serves as a conduit between Europe and Africa and the most significant international trade routes. Additionally, it highlighted the integration of railway, port, urban infrastructures, and digital systems.
The importance of cybersecurity in the railway sector was also underscored, given the increasing reliance on digital systems for managing train operations and signals. It was noted that safeguarding these systems has become a fundamental element in ensuring the continuity and safety of transportation services.
In conclusion, the Spanish Federation affirmed that Morocco is solidifying its position as a regional platform for reorganizing trade flows and supply chains between Europe and Africa amidst the rapid transformations occurring in the transportation sector, making it one of the most prominent emerging players in the railway industry both regionally and globally.
As reported by barlamane.com.
