Lagos – Nigeria – Chinese President Xi Jinping has reaffirmed China’s commitment to deepening its strategic partnership with Morocco during a visit to Casablanca on Thursday. The visit, following a state trip to Brazil, underscores Beijing’s growing interest in expanding ties with Morocco, particularly in infrastructure and the rapidly developing automotive sector.
During a technical stop in Morocco, Xi was welcomed by Crown Prince Moulay Hassan and Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch. Conveying his cordial greetings to King Mohammed VI, Xi highlighted the positive trajectory of Sino-Moroccan relations, citing robust cooperation and dynamic exchanges across various sectors.
China’s investments in Morocco have grown significantly in recent years, particularly in infrastructure and renewable energy. Chinese companies are at the forefront of major projects, including the development of the country’s railway systems and its burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) battery industry. Morocco has emerged as a strategic hub for EV battery manufacturing, supported by its rapidly growing automotive sector, which produced approximately 700,000 vehicles in 2023 and generated industrial exports worth $14 billion.
Among the notable investments, Chinese battery manufacturer Gotion High Tech has committed $1.3 billion to build Africa’s first EV battery gigafactory in Morocco. Located near Rabat, the plant will have an initial production capacity of 20 gigawatt-hours (GWh) and is set to begin operations in 2025, with future expansions planned to reach 100 GWh, potentially increasing the total investment to $6.5 billion. Similarly, CNGR Advanced Material, in collaboration with African private equity firm Al Mada, is investing $2 billion in a battery components plant in Jorf Lasfar, expected to commence production in 2025.
China’s focus on Morocco is further reinforced by the North African country’s strategic location near Europe and its free trade agreements with both the European Union and the United States. These advantages, coupled with a supportive business environment, have positioned Morocco as a key gateway for Chinese companies looking to expand their global operations.
During his discussions with Moroccan officials, Xi emphasised China’s readiness to support Morocco’s economic diversification efforts and enhance collaboration under the Belt and Road Initiative. Renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, and trade were identified as priority areas for deepened cooperation.
This visit highlights China’s increasing role as a significant economic partner in Africa, with Morocco emerging as a cornerstone of Beijing’s strategy in the region. For Morocco, the strengthening of relations with China complements its traditional partnerships with Western nations, driving economic growth and industrial modernisation.
Xi Jinping’s brief but impactful stop in Casablanca signals the importance of the Sino-Moroccan partnership as both nations seek to capitalise on mutual opportunities for development and collaboration in a rapidly shifting global landscape.
