Morocco has announced a $2.9 billion deal to purchase up to 168 trains from France’s Alstom, Spain’s CAF, and South Korea’s Hyundai as part of preparations for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which it is co-hosting with Spain and Portugal.
The National Railway Office (ONCF) revealed that the new acquisition programme, valued at 29 billion dirhams, is part of Morocco’s broader development plan in anticipation of the tournament.
The contract includes 18 high-speed trains from Alstom, building on a previous agreement discussed during French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to Rabat in October.
Currently, Morocco operates a high-speed railway line linking Tangier and Casablanca, with plans for a second 400-kilometre (250-mile) line from Kenitra to Marrakesh.
The first line, built by Alstom, has been running since 2018.
In addition to the high-speed trains, the deal with Spain’s CAF includes 30 intercity trains, with the option for 10 more, while Hyundai Rotem will supply 110 commuter trains.
The ONCF stated that these purchases are not only intended to support the successful joint organisation of the 2030 World Cup but also to bolster the domestic railway industry, with a local factory for commuter trains and plans for future exports.
