Morocco’s automotive export sector has achieved impressive success, establishing itself as the primary supplier to the European Union. Car production has increased by a significant 30% in the last year, reaching a total production of over 535,000 cars. This remarkable achievement is the result of strategic investment and sound policies that have focused on attaining excellence in the automotive industry.
The country’s modern plants, industrial complexes, and skilled workforce, coupled with lower production costs, have significantly contributed to the increase in annual car production. These factors have propelled automotive production to unprecedented levels, solidifying Morocco’s position as a key player in the sector.
In terms of economic impact, the automotive sector has greatly contributed to the Kingdom’s budget, with a total of over $13 billion. This is credited to wise leadership and strategic planning through initiatives such as the Investment Charter and the Industrial Acceleration Plan 2014-2020. These initiatives have driven economic growth and social progress, making Morocco a beacon of progress and potential.
Morocco’s geographical location, opposite its European neighbor Spain, has also played a key role in its automotive industry success. The country’s strategic position as a gateway from Africa to Europe, coupled with efforts to strengthen infrastructure and simplify trade agreements, has enhanced Morocco’s standing in the automotive industry. This has also led to the country’s success in social integration and environmental sustainability.
Morocco has also made remarkable efforts in narrowing the gender gap in the automotive sector, resulting in increased integration rates. The Kingdom has become a pioneer in green technology and innovation, attracting global industry giants such as New Motors, SNOB, Renault-Dacia, and Stellantis.
Stellantis, for instance, inaugurated its Kénitra plant in June 2019 following the inauguration by King Mohammed VI. The success of the plant has led to the announcement of an expansion. The group plans to invest over 300 million euros to double production capacity to 450,000 vehicles a year and to launch new automotive products, including electric cars.
CEO Carlos Tavares has stated that the aim of this investment in the Kénitra plant is to make it Stellantis’ third engine in the Middle East and Africa region, in addition to North America and Europe. The expansion is expected to create 2,000 jobs in addition to the current 3,000. Tavares announced the doubling of the production capacity at the Kenitra plant with the ambition of producing 450,000 cars a year, including both internal combustion and electric vehicles.
With the continuous growth and expansion in the automotive industry, Morocco is paving its way to becoming a significant player in the global automotive sector. The country’s strategic investment and concerted efforts in infrastructure development, environmental sustainability, and social integration have been instrumental in driving its success. The automotive industry in Morocco has not only significantly contributed to its economy but has also set an example for other countries aspiring to achieve a similar level of success.