China’s CREC4 Wins Bid for Morocco’s High-Speed Rail Expansion
In a move signaling China’s growing influence in global infrastructure projects, China Railway No. 4 Engineering (CREC4) has secured the contract for the first phase of Morocco’s ambitious high-speed rail expansion. This phase will extend the existing line, connecting the cities of Kenitra and Marrakech.
CREC4, a subsidiary of the international railway giant CRRC, submitted a winning bid of $3.4 billion, undercutting the Moroccan National Railway Office’s initial cost projections. This competitive pricing, coupled with CREC4’s extensive experience in over 116 projects worldwide – including ventures in the US, India, and Latin America – likely contributed to their success.
The initial phase, already underway, focuses on laying the groundwork for the rail expansion. This includes essential tasks such as earthworks, construction of engineering structures, upgrading communication networks, and securing the project area.
This expansion project represents a significant step forward for Morocco’s transportation infrastructure. Beyond the Kenitra-Marrakech high-speed line, the project encompasses station upgrades and the development of a conventional rail line passing through Kenitra, Rabat, Casablanca, and Marrakech. Furthermore, it includes the construction of new facilities, including a maintenance base in Kenitra and workshops for component monitoring and repair.
The expansion of Morocco’s high-speed rail network is expected to have a significant impact on the country’s economy and connectivity. By reducing travel times and increasing transportation capacity, the project aims to boost tourism, trade, and regional development. The involvement of a major Chinese company like CREC4 also highlights the growing economic ties between China and Africa, particularly in the realm of infrastructure development.
