Morocco's green mobility plans ahead of 2030 World Cup

Morocco prepares to acquire 7,000 buses, with focus on electric vehicles

Morocco has unveiled an ambitious plan to purchase 7,000 buses as part of its preparations for major sporting events, including the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which it will co-host with Spain and Portugal.

Ryad Mezzour, Morocco’s Minister of Industry and Trade, announced the initiative during the Green Impact Summit, emphasizing the country’s commitment to sustainable mobility by 2030.

The first step in this plan includes a call for tenders recently launched by the Ministry of Interior to acquire 1,317 buses, 30 of which will be electric. Mezzour highlighted the government’s aim to ensure that half of the remaining fleet will also consist of electric vehicles, aligning with Morocco’s broader transition to green transportation.

“Electric buses cost the same as traditional fuel-powered ones,” Mezzour stated, adding that this affordability makes a shift to sustainable mobility both practical and necessary. He further noted Morocco’s growing capacity in the electric vehicle sector, including plans to manufacture key components of electric batteries.

Morocco’s rise in electric vehicle production

Mezzour revealed that Morocco is poised to become one of only five countries globally capable of producing electric vehicles “from mine to factory.” This achievement will be fueled by the nation’s abundant resources of cobalt and phosphate, essential materials for lithium battery production.

The minister emphasized that Morocco’s focus on producing electric vehicle components—such as chassis, engines, and batteries—will not only promote sustainability but also spur economic growth. This strategy is expected to triple the country’s exports by 2032 and create thousands of jobs.

Infrastructure upgrades for global events

In addition to green mobility, Morocco has outlined comprehensive plans to prepare for key upcoming sporting events, including the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). These efforts include renovating existing stadiums, constructing new ones, and enhancing airports, particularly Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport.

Fouzi Lekjaa, Delegate Minister for Budget and President of the Moroccan Football Federation, detailed a broader strategy covering human rights, climate action, energy transition, infrastructure, mobility, accommodation, football, and security.

This multifaceted approach reflects Morocco’s determination to showcase its readiness for global events while prioritizing sustainability and technological advancement.

As the world looks forward to the 2030 World Cup, Morocco’s focus on innovation and sustainability signals a transformative moment for the nation’s infrastructure and global reputation.