Casablanca – Zhejiang Hailiang, a leading Chinese manufacturer of copper tubes and bars, is expanding its global presence by investing $288 million to build a new factory in Morocco. This investment is targeted at meeting the rising demand for materials used in the renewable energy sector, specifically lithium battery components like sheets.

The Moroccan project will boast significant production capacity upon completion. The factory aims to produce 50,000 tons of alloys, 35,000 tons of tubes, 40,000 tons of bars, and 25,000 tons of sheets annually, with construction expected to take 36 months.

Zhejiang Hailiang’s decision to establish operations in Morocco strategically aims to enhance customer service in Europe, America, the Middle East, and Africa amidst ongoing geopolitical disruptions impacting global trade. This initiative aligns with the company’s goal to diversify production beyond China, particularly in response to increasing trade restrictions.

Morocco was chosen as a manufacturing base due to its existing free trade agreements with key markets such as the United States, the European Union, and Turkey. These agreements will facilitate Zhejiang Hailiang’s access to multiple markets and help navigate trade barriers.

This investment in Morocco is part of Zhejiang Hailiang’s broader global expansion strategy. Last year, the company announced the establishment of a 50,000-ton lithium battery copper sheet plant in Indonesia, in addition to its existing production bases in the United States, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Vietnam, and Thailand.

Through its upcoming Moroccan factory, Zhejiang Hailiang aims to strengthen its international market position and capitalize on the growing demand for renewable energy materials. The strategic location of Morocco and favorable trade agreements will enable the company to drive growth and expansion in key regions worldwide.