Morocco is strengthening its strategic partnership with China to become a key player in the electric car sector. In recent years, the Cherifian kingdom has been able to attract investors thanks to its advantageous trade agreements with Europe and its privileged geographical position. In 2023, exports of cars manufactured in Morocco increased by 30%, reaching 25% of the country’s total exports, according to published data.
A meteoric rise in exports
Car manufacturers such as Stellantis and Renault have chosen Morocco as a production base for their models intended for the European market. For example, the Citroën AMI and Dacia Sandero are manufactured in Moroccan factories before being exported to Europe. This decision is motivated by lower production costs, allowing manufacturers to maximize their profit margins while respecting the quality standards demanded by European consumers.
Morocco’s geopolitical and economic advantages
Morocco’s geography plays a crucial role in this dynamic. With ports on the Mediterranean and the Atlantic, the country offers an ideal gateway for exports to Europe. In addition, free trade agreements allow vehicles to be imported without paying customs duties, which represents a significant competitive advantage compared to other regions.
The role of component suppliers
In parallel, automotive component companies such as Gestamp, Antolin and Teknia have also invested in Morocco, strengthening the local industrial ecosystem. These companies supply essential parts for vehicles, thus contributing to the value chain and the competitiveness of the Moroccan automotive industry.
The ambition to produce batteries for electric vehicles
Beyond vehicle assembly, Morocco aspires to become a center for the production of batteries for electric cars. Discussions with Chinese companies such as Gotion High-Tech, BTR New Material, and CNGR Advanced Material are well advanced. For example, Gotion High-Tech announced an investment of 1.2 billion euros to build a battery factory in Morocco, with a production capacity of 20 GWh, expandable to 100 GWh.
Exploitation of local resources
Morocco also has significant mineral resources needed for battery production, including cobalt and phosphates. The country is the world’s tenth largest producer of cobalt, a key component of lithium-ion batteries. By exploiting these resources, Morocco can reduce its dependence on raw material imports and strengthen its position in the electric vehicle value chain.
A vision for the future
The alliance between Morocco and China in the electric car sector is part of a broader vision of energy transition and industrial development. By attracting foreign investment and developing local production capacities, Morocco aims to become a key player in electromobility. This strategy could not only strengthen the Moroccan economy, but also contribute to the decarbonization of the transport sector globally.
Challenges and opportunities
However, this ambition does not come without challenges. The development of the infrastructure necessary to support large-scale battery production, as well as the training of a qualified workforce, are major challenges. Additionally, the global battery market is highly competitive, with already well-established industrial giants. Morocco’s success will depend on its ability to offer attractive conditions to investors and maintain high production quality.
In conclusion, the strategic partnership between Morocco and China in the electric car sector represents a major opportunity for both countries. By increasing its vehicle exports and entering into battery production, Morocco is positioning itself as a key player in the transition to more sustainable mobility. This dynamic could transform the Moroccan industrial landscape and strengthen its role in the global electromobility economy.