The Moroccan EV battery sector is increasingly attracting major international players, positioning the country as a key contributor to the green mobility value chain. For example, BTR is investing nearly $500 million in a new cathode factory in Morocco. Additionally, CNGR Advanced Material Company has partnered with investment fund Al Mada, while Guangzhou Tinci Materials Technology is setting up a plant with a $2.8 billion investment.
The establishment of Gotion High-Tech’s Gigafactory in Morocco solidifies the country’s standing in the global electric vehicle (EV) battery industry, affirming its role as a future nerve center for electric mobility.
Gotion High-Tech signed a strategic investment agreement with Morocco on April 6, 2024, in Rabat. The agreement, valued at 12.8 billion dirhams (MMDH), involves creating a comprehensive industrial ecosystem for manufacturing electric batteries in Kenitra.
Strategic vision and long-term efforts
This strategic direction is the result of long-term efforts and vision. According to Mohcine Jazouli, Minister Delegate to the Head of Government in charge of Investment, Convergence, and the Evaluation of Public Policies, “Morocco is reaping the benefits of King Mohammed VI’s vision, particularly concerning renewable energy.”
“Thanks to this vision, green energy is available in Morocco at an ultra-competitive price,” Jazouli remarked during a media roundtable.
Favorable conditions and competitive advantages
Morocco’s favorable conditions include geopolitical stability, a young population, high-quality infrastructure, and multiple free trade agreements, making it a strategic export base with access to a significant consumer market. The country also has substantial natural resource deposits, a clear energy strategy focused on renewables, a mature chemical industry, strong state support, and private sector backing.
“The Investment Charter provides a clear framework for investors and a business climate that continues to improve,” Jazouli affirmed.
Mustapha Baitas, Minister Delegate in charge of Relations with Parliament and government spokesperson, echoed this sentiment, noting that investment in Morocco has gained significant momentum since the new Investment Charter came into effect.
“Morocco has become an attractive investment destination due to its commitment to modernizing its legal framework for investment and improving the overall business climate through simplified procedures,” Baitas observed.
Economic benefits and future prospects
The economic benefits of this dynamic investment climate are multifaceted, including job creation, value generation, export capacity, and foreign exchange earnings. For the first Gigafactory, the Moroccan state entrusted Gotion High-Tech, a global leader in the electric battery sector and a key shareholder being the German group Volkswagen. Over the past two years, Gotion High-Tech has launched nearly 12 Gigafactories in Europe, the United States, and Asia to meet the growing global demand for electric mobility.
The first phase of this ambitious project aims to produce 20 GWh, creating 17,000 direct, indirect, and induced jobs, including 2,300 high-skilled positions. Ultimately, this capacity will reach 100 GWh with a total investment of 65 MMDH.
Morocco’s global positioning
At this pace, Morocco continues to position itself among the major global industry players, establishing itself as a reference hub for high-value sectors, including automotive, aerospace, and now electric mobility.
