Morocco's Role in the Global Mining Sector

RABAT, September 8, 2026 – Morocco is set to welcome the third edition of the International Mining Congress (IMC) from October 6 to 8, 2026, at the prestigious Sofitel Jardin des Roses in Rabat. This year's theme, "Towards a New Industrial Era: Africa, an Integrated Hub for the Processing of Critical and Strategic Minerals," underscores Morocco's commitment to enhancing its position within the global mining industry. The event is organized by the Fédération de l’Industrie Minérale (FDIM) in collaboration with AME Trade, and is supported by Morocco's Ministry of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development and the Ministry of Industry and Trade, with additional backing from AMDIE and the General Confederation of Moroccan Enterprises.

The IMC 2026 arrives at a pivotal moment when Morocco is looking to strengthen its role in global value chains associated with critical and strategic minerals. The country has already established a robust presence in the phosphate sector and is now focused on diversifying into minerals essential for the energy transition. According to the Fraser Institute’s 2025 annual survey, published in 2026, Morocco ranked 15th globally and first in Africa for mining attractiveness, highlighting its growing significance in this sector.

Agenda and Participants of IMC 2026

The congress will build upon the Marrakech Declaration, which was adopted during the 2025 edition and emphasized the importance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards in African mining operations. This year’s agenda is designed to facilitate the implementation of these standards while fostering conditions for responsible mining development. A key focus will be to shift discussions from mere extraction to the industrial processing of minerals on African soil, with sessions covering advanced exploration technologies, refining and processing methods, project financing, digital transformation, and skills development essential for the mining workforce.

Among the confirmed participants are major industry players such as OCP Group, Managem, Compagnie Minière de Touissit, Aya Gold & Silver, and ONHYM, along with various international operators, service providers, and equipment suppliers. Additionally, the program includes site visits on October 8 to significant operations including OCP’s Khouribga and Jorf Lasfar facilities, CMT’s Tighza mine, the Mohammedia salt mine, and the Mohammed VI Polytechnic University. The previous edition of the congress in 2025 attracted nearly 1,000 participants from over 40 countries and showcased more than 70 exhibitors, setting a high standard for this year’s event.

As reported by theenergyyear.com.