The Moroccan government announces a major investment of 781 million EUR for the acquisition of 18 high-speed trains (TGVs). This initiative is part of an ambitious project to modernize the country’s rail network and improve connectivity between major cities.

Project Context

Morocco has already made significant progress in developing its rail network, including the inauguration of Africa’s first high-speed line, linking Tangier to Casablanca, in 2018. This project, which cost approximately, reduced the travel time between the two cities to just 2 hours and 10 minutes. With the acquisition of these 18 new TGVs, the country aims to expand and improve its rail network, meeting the growing demand for fast and efficient transport.

Details of the Acquisition

The acquisition of these 18 TGVs will be carried out from the French company Alstom, a world leader in the field of rail transport. The new trains will be equipped with cutting-edge technologies, offering increased comfort and improved energy efficiency.

• Total cost: 781 million EUR, or approximately 8.7 billion Moroccan dirhams.
• Number of trains: 18 TGVs, which will complement the existing fleet.
• Maximum speed: The new trains will be able to reach a speed of 320 km/h, thus further reducing journey times.
• Delivery date: The first trains are expected to be delivered by 2026, with entry into service scheduled for the same year.

The trains will be manufactured in France, but their assembly and testing will take place in Morocco. Alstom’s Fez plant plays a key role in producing essential components, helping to strengthen the Moroccan railway ecosystem.

Key Figures of Rail Transport in Morocco

To better understand the impact of this investment, here are some key figures regarding rail transport in Morocco.

• Length of the Rail Network: The Moroccan rail network extends over approximately 3,000 kilometers, connecting the country’s main cities.
• Train Usage: In 2023, the Société Nationale des Chemins de Fer du Maroc (ONCF) carried approximately 38 million passengers, with a 10% increase over the previous year.
• Growth Projections: With the addition of new TGVs, ONCF plans to reach 50 million passengers per year by 2030.
• Economic Impact: The rail sector contributes approximately 1.5% of Morocco’s GDP, and improved infrastructure could generate thousands of jobs in construction and operations.

Economic and Social Implications

The acquisition of these TGVs will have significant implications on several fronts.

• Improved mobility: With reduced travel times, the new rail links will facilitate travel between major cities, boosting trade and tourism. For example, the travel time between Casablanca and Marrakech could be reduced to less than an hour.
• Environmental impact: Rail transport is one of the most environmentally friendly modes of transport. By encouraging the use of TGVs, Morocco could reduce its carbon footprint and contribute to its sustainable development goals. According to the International Energy Agency, rail transport emits on average 75% less CO2 per passenger-kilometer compared to cars.
• Job creation: The construction and operation of the new high-speed lines are expected to generate thousands of jobs, both in the construction and service sectors. This could also stimulate the local economy in the regions served by the new lines.
• Tourist Attractiveness: Improving rail infrastructure could boost Morocco’s attractiveness as a tourist destination. Tourists will be able to easily travel between major tourist sites, which could contribute to an increase in tourism revenue.

Modernizing Transport Infrastructure in Morocco

The launch of this TGV acquisition project is part of a broader vision to modernize Morocco’s transport infrastructure.

• Network Expansion: Morocco plans to expand its rail network to other regions, particularly the south of the country. Projects are already underway to connect cities such as Agadir and Ouarzazate to the national network.
• International Partnerships: Morocco could also consider partnerships with other countries to further develop its rail network. Collaborations with European and Asian countries could bring additional investments and technologies.
• Technological Innovation: The integration of advanced technologies, such as rail traffic management systems and autonomous trains, could further improve the efficiency and safety of rail transport in Morocco.
• Commitment to Sustainable Development: Morocco is committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable modes of transport. The expansion of the high-speed rail network is part of this overall strategy.

Transforming the Moroccan transport landscape

The acquisition of 18 TGVs marks an important step in the modernization of rail transport in Morocco. This investment is not only limited to improving infrastructure, but also represents an opportunity to stimulate the economy, create jobs and promote sustainable development. As Morocco continues to move towards a more connected and sustainable future, the launch of these TGVs could transform the transport landscape in the country and strengthen its position as a regional leader in modern infrastructure.