Morocco's Ambitious Mining Future
Morocco is poised to establish itself as a prominent global mining hub, leveraging its strategic mineral reserves and increasing attractiveness to foreign investment. The country will host the third edition of the International Mining Congress (IMC) from October 6 to 8, 2026, in Rabat, marking a significant step towards its aspiration to become a pivotal player in global supply chains. This event is organized by the Federation of Mineral Industry (FDIM) and AME Trade, with the backing of the Moroccan government. The timing is particularly noteworthy, as Morocco recently climbed to the 15th position in the Fraser Institute's global mining investment attractiveness index.
Strategic Shift Towards Critical Minerals
Holding approximately 75% of the world's phosphate reserves, Morocco is actively diversifying its mining production. The nation aims to double its mining sector revenues, excluding phosphates, to surpass $1.7 billion by 2030. This ambitious strategy focuses on the extraction of essential metals critical for the energy transition, including cobalt—where Morocco ranks as the ninth largest global producer with an output of 2,000 tons per year—alongside copper, nickel, and silver. The Moroccan government plans to vertically integrate production to supply future battery 'gigafactories' for electric vehicles located in Tangier and Kenitra.
To facilitate this growth, the government has recently issued a call for bids to explore precious and strategic minerals across an area of 13,000 square kilometers in the eastern provinces of Tafilalet and Figuig. To attract international operators, Rabat is modernizing its legal framework. The introduction of a national digital mining register aims to eliminate bureaucratic hurdles and ensure complete transparency for investors.
The 2026 edition of the IMC will build on the achievements of the previous summit, which resulted in the adoption of the Marrakech Declaration. This document commits the African mining sector to adhere to stringent environmental and social (ESG) standards to attract international capital focused on sustainable mining practices. As highlighted by Leila Benali, the Minister of Energy Transition, this declaration is not solely a Moroccan initiative but a broader African commitment, marking the continent's entry into an era where it defines its own rules and values its resources.
Anticipation is high for the upcoming congress, with over 650 delegates and 100 exhibitors expected to attend, including industry giants such as OCP, Managem, and Aya Gold & Silver. This event is set to be a significant gathering for the extractive industry across the continent, further solidifying Morocco's role in the global mining landscape. As reported by article19.ma.
