Morocco bets on high-speed trains: Alstom awaits key tenders

The options of an expansion of Alstom in Tangier depend on the result of the international public tender launched by the Moroccan high-speed railway company ONCF and the international demand in the sector. 

In case of winning the tenders, the French multinational specialised in the production of high-speed trains, Alstom, foresees an increase of production in Morocco, one of the 60 countries where it is established. In this case, Alstom would start the construction process of a new production plant in the port of Tangier Med. 

Among the offers to be approved by the ONCF is an investment of 1.6 billion dollars divided into: 18 high-speed trains at a cost of 450 million, 60 express shuttle trains for 432 million, 40 intercity trains for 388 million and 50 metropolitan trains for 330 million.

In addition, the ONCF will tender for the construction of a 375 km stretch from Kenitra on the northwest coast to Marrakech in the south. The project, proposed in September, would stretch between 36 and 64 kilometres and cross the metropolitan areas of Rabat-Sale, Casablanca and Marrakech. 

Morocco is working to establish a train production system by 2025. Alstom would see its investment in Morocco as a profitable project in terms of future rail-related projects and electric trains. Because Rabat wants to extend its high-speed network from Casablanca to Marrakech and Agadir, and from Rabat to Fez and Meknes.  

Morocco's plans include developing a tram network in the main cities, extending rail connections with other regions and improving rail infrastructure in preparation for the 2030 World Cup, which will be co-hosted with Spain and Portugal. 

Alstom, on the other hand, aims to compete with other interested companies for multimillion-dollar contracts that could advance plans to expand and modernise the country's high-speed network.

According to experts, the decision reflects a positive moment in diplomatic relations between France and Morocco after the recent visit of French ministers to the North African country, contributing to set a positive tone in commercial matters.