Casablanca – Morocco is advancing its railway infrastructure with major investments and international partnerships, positioning itself as a key transport hub in Africa. The latest development comes from South Korea’s Hyundai Rotem, which has secured a landmark contract worth more than $1.5 billion to supply and maintain double-decker electric trains for the country’s rail network. This agreement, the largest ever signed by the South Korean manufacturer, is expected to accelerate Morocco’s plans to modernize and expand its rail system in preparation for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which the country will co-host with Spain and Portugal.
Strategic partnership with South Korea
The contract with Hyundai Rotem includes the production of new electric trains as well as the establishment of a local assembly plant in Morocco, ensuring technology transfer and industrial integration. The Korea Railway Corporation (KORAIL) will play a key role in training Moroccan engineers, reinforcing the country’s technical expertise in railway maintenance and operations.
South Korea’s commitment to this project is further highlighted by the direct involvement of its government. President Choi Sang-Mok expressed his appreciation in an official letter to King Mohammed VI, emphasizing the significance of the partnership in strengthening economic and technological ties between the two nations.
Hyundai Rotem’s successful bid prevailed over competitors such as France’s Alstom, Spain’s Talgo and CAF, and China’s CRRC. Factors that contributed to its selection included the comprehensive technology transfer plan, the construction of a local factory, and competitive financing facilitated by the South Korean government.
Morocco’s high-speed rail expansion
In parallel with this partnership, Morocco is pushing forward with an ambitious plan to expand its high-speed rail (LGV) network. The planned extension from Kenitra to Agadir will significantly enhance connectivity across the country, benefiting an estimated 59% of the population. This expansion is designed to support the increased demand for transportation, particularly as Morocco prepares for the 2030 World Cup.
The new routes will drastically reduce travel times:
- Tangier to Rabat: 1 hour
- Tangier to Casablanca: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Tangier to Marrakesh: 2 hours 40 minutes
- Tangier to Agadir: 4 hours
The project will cover seven major regions, with the existing Fez rail line also undergoing enhancements to allow speeds of up to 320 km/h between Marrakesh and Fez.
To further improve urban mobility, Morocco is developing a rapid regional train network (RER) in Rabat, Casablanca, and Marrakesh. This initiative includes the construction of new train stations, such as those planned in Rabat and Casablanca, and upgrades to existing ones, including Casablanca Port. A total of 12 RER stations are expected to be operational by 2025, aligning with the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations.
Towards a regional railway hub
Beyond serving domestic needs, these developments align with Morocco’s broader goal of becoming a regional railway hub. The planned Hyundai Rotem assembly plant is expected to not only supply the local market but also serve as a base for exports to other African nations. This model follows Morocco’s success in the automotive industry, where the country has attracted global manufacturers such as Renault and Stellantis.
With Hyundai Rotem expanding its footprint in Africa through projects in Egypt and Uzbekistan, Morocco’s railway sector is set to benefit from increased international collaboration and investment. These efforts are part of a larger strategy to strengthen the country’s transportation infrastructure, stimulate economic growth, and enhance its role as a gateway between Africa and Europe.
