Tesla's Moroccan Factory Rumor: Unraveling the Misinformation

What began as an April Fool's joke has escalated into widespread misinformation regarding Tesla's supposed investment in a factory in Morocco. Claims circulated widely on social media and various Moroccan news outlets that Tesla would establish its first African factory in Kenitra, with an investment of $5 billion. However, these assertions lack any official confirmation or credible sources.

According to a report from the French technology news outlet Numerama, there has been no official announcement from Tesla regarding this supposed facility. The viral reports claimed that the factory would cover 300 hectares in Kenitra’s free zone near the Tangier Med port and produce up to 400,000 vehicles annually, including the Model Y and a new compact car aimed at emerging markets.

Numerama emphasized that such a project is unlikely, especially given recent U.S. trade policies that impact automotive manufacturing. Additionally, the outlet pointed out that Tesla's previous international expansion plans have faltered, including an announced Gigafactory in Mexico that has yet to materialize.

The rumors gained traction with misleading headlines declaring, “It’s now official,” but these claims were based on unverified quotes attributed to Tesla's CEO, Elon Musk, discussing Morocco's political stability and logistical advantages. The reports also suggested that this factory could create approximately 25,000 direct and indirect jobs, with production expected to start in late 2027.

The misinformation originated from an April Fool's article published by Maroc Diplomatique, which has since been retracted. Unfortunately, the story was picked up and reported as fact by various news outlets, including RT France.

While Morocco does have established partnerships with automotive manufacturers like Renault and Stellantis, and STMicroelectronics produces components for Tesla near Casablanca, there are currently no plans for a Tesla manufacturing facility in the country.