China Dominates Morocco’s High-Speed Rail Expansion: A Look at the Kenitra-Marrakech Line
China’s presence in global infrastructure projects continues to grow, and Morocco’s ambitious high-speed rail network is no exception. Chinese companies have secured a lion’s share of the contracts for the Kenitra-Marrakech high-speed line, further solidifying their position as key players in the global rail industry. This new line, an extension of the existing Tangier-Kenitra high-speed service, promises to revolutionize travel within the country and boost economic development.
The Kenitra-Marrakech project, a significant undertaking in Morocco’s transportation infrastructure, has seen Chinese firms win five major contracts totaling over $1.2 billion USD. This impressive feat underscores China’s growing influence in the North African nation’s infrastructure development. The contracts cover various crucial aspects of the project, from civil engineering and bridge construction to track laying and systems integration.
Most recently, China Gezhouba Group Corporation (CGGC) was awarded a 2.32 billion Moroccan Dirham (approximately $230 million USD) contract for the ninth section of the line. This section involves the construction of six bridges across various valleys, highlighting the complex engineering challenges involved in the project. CGGC joins a roster of other prominent Chinese companies already involved in the project.
China Railway Group Limited (CREC) subsidiary, CREC 4, is responsible for the first 62-kilometer stretch from Sidi Ichou to Rabat, a contract worth 3.4 billion Dirhams (approximately $340 million USD). Shandong Hi-Speed Group, another major Chinese player, secured the second 64-kilometer section from Rabat Agdal to Zenata, valued at 4 billion Dirhams (approximately $400 million USD). These initial sections lay the groundwork for the ambitious expansion southward.
Further down the line, China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC) subsidiary, CRCC 20, is handling the 36-kilometer fifth section between Settat and Benguerir, with a contract value of 1.8 billion Dirhams (approximately $180 million USD). China Overseas Engineering Group Co., Ltd. (COVEC) rounds out the Chinese contingent, managing the tenth section encompassing the greater Casablanca area, a contract worth 1.3 billion Dirhams (approximately $130 million USD).
While Chinese companies have taken the lead, Moroccan and French firms are also contributing to the project. French company GTR/STAM is responsible for the third section, a 36-kilometer bypass around Casablanca and Berrechid, valued at 4.6 billion Dirhams (approximately $460 million USD). Moroccan companies TGCC, Jet Contractors, and Mojazine are handling sections four, six, and seven respectively, focusing on stretches between Berrechid and Settat, Benguerir and Marrakech Palmeraie, and Marrakech Palmeraie and Marrakech.
This collaborative effort demonstrates the international scope of the project and the importance of partnerships in large-scale infrastructure development. The Kenitra-Marrakech high-speed rail line is not just a transportation project; it’s an investment in Morocco’s future. Improved connectivity will facilitate economic growth, create jobs, and enhance the quality of life for millions of Moroccans. The project also aligns with global trends towards sustainable transportation, offering a faster and more environmentally friendly alternative to road travel. As high-speed rail continues to gain traction worldwide, Morocco’s investment, with significant Chinese involvement, positions the country as a leader in African rail development.
