Morocco Is the New Automotive Manufacturing Powerhouse
The newspaper reported that the automotive manufacturing sector is making the North African country's automotive industry contribution a 'pillar of the Moroccan economy' and the 'leading export sector.'
Morocco already attracts major French automakers, with Renault leading the pack. Renault's largest factory worldwide operates in Tangier, spanning 300 hectares, where 7,000 employees assemble various models, including the Dacia Sandero — Europe's best-selling car.
Franco-Italian-American group Stellantis has also invested in Morocco, relocating part of its production to a factory in Kenitra.
Chinese company Sentury Tyres, specializing in tire manufacturing, has established operations in the country as well.
Renault maintains another production site in Casablanca that manufactures the Dacia Sandero 3 (over 69,000 units) for the European market.
Read also: Morocco Signs New Agreements to Further Develop Automotive Sector
In 2023, Moroccan factories produced approximately 470,000 vehicles destined for Europe — surpassing China's export volume to the continent, according to a Team France Export report. Europe represents Morocco's primary market, with 80% of new vehicle exports crossing the Mediterranean.
Regarding Stellantis' Kenitra factory, the Franco-Italian-American group announced that at least 400,000 vehicles should roll off the production line by 2027. This Atlantic-adjacent facility produces the Fiat 500, Peugeot 208, and Citroen Ami.
The Chinese company Sentury Tyres has also turned to Morocco for its tire production. Local component manufacturing 'can allow automakers to further reduce production costs,' especially as the country aims to capitalize on the growing electric vehicle market by 2030.
Morocco's automotive industry success stems largely from competitive labor costs, strategic location near European markets, and government initiatives to attract foreign investment in the sector.
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