Morocco emerges as a key player in automotive manufacturing

French newspaper “Le Dauphiné libéré” has hailed Morocco as “the new Eldorado” for automotive manufacturers, highlighting the country's burgeoning automotive sector as a vital pillar of its economy and the leading export industry.

Morocco has successfully attracted major French automakers, with Renault at the forefront. The company operates its largest factory worldwide in Tangier, covering 300 hectares and employing 7,000 workers who assemble a variety of models, including the Dacia Sandero, which stands as Europe’s best-selling car.

Additionally, the Franco-Italian-American group Stellantis has made significant investments in Morocco, relocating part of its production to a facility in Kenitra. This factory is set to produce at least 400,000 vehicles by 2027, including models like the Fiat 500, Peugeot 208, and Citroën Ami.

The influx of investment is not limited to European firms; Chinese company Sentury Tyres has also established operations in Morocco, specializing in tire manufacturing. This move allows local component production, which is expected to reduce overall manufacturing costs, particularly as Morocco positions itself to capitalize on the expanding electric vehicle market by 2030.

In 2023, Moroccan factories produced approximately 470,000 vehicles destined for Europe, surpassing China’s export volume to the continent, according to a report by Team France Export. With Europe serving as Morocco’s primary market, around 80% of new vehicle exports traverse the Mediterranean.

Renault also maintains a production site in Casablanca, where over 69,000 units of the Dacia Sandero 3 are manufactured for the European market. This dual production approach underscores Morocco's strategic importance as a manufacturing hub.

The ongoing success of Morocco’s automotive industry can be attributed to its competitive labor costs, advantageous geographic location near European markets, and proactive government initiatives aimed at attracting foreign investment. As the sector continues to expand, Morocco is steadfast in its ambition to solidify its position as a leader in automotive manufacturing.