Rabat – Morocco has put five diesel locomotives from Chinese manufacturer CRRC Ziyang into service as the country works to modernize its railway network ahead of the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
The first batch of locomotives entered service during a ceremony at the headquarters of Morocco’s National Railway Office (ONCF) on September 8, according to the Chinese Embassy in Morocco. Chinese Ambassador to Morocco Yu Jinsong, ONCF Director General Mohamed Rabie Khlie, and Chen Zhixin, chairman of CRRC Ziyang, attended the event.
The Chinese Embassy said CRRC Ziyang delivered the five locomotives within seven months despite transportation difficulties.
Khlie said the delivery demonstrated the Chinese company’s ability to meet its commitments and would support Morocco’s efforts to renew its railway fleet. He also linked the arrival of the locomotives to preparations for the 2030 World Cup.
Yu described railway transport as an example of infrastructure cooperation between Morocco and China. He said the locomotives showed how Chinese railway technology could contribute to Morocco’s rail network.
The delivery comes as Morocco prepares a wider expansion of its transport infrastructure. The country plans major investments in roads, railways, airports and other infrastructure as it prepares to co-host the 2030 World Cup with Spain and Portugal.
Morocco has also worked to attract more Chinese investment across strategic industries. In February, Investment Minister Karim Zidane met Ren Hongbin, president of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, to discuss opportunities in renewable energy, electric mobility, infrastructure and artificial intelligence.
Chinese companies have already established a growing presence in Morocco’s industrial sector. Chinese battery-materials producer BTR Group signed a MAD 3 billion investment agreement in 2024 to build a cathode manufacturing plant in Tangier, with an annual capacity of 50,000 tons. The project could create 2,448 jobs.
Morocco also seeks Chinese investment in areas including automotive manufacturing, aeronautics, renewable energy and emerging technologies.
Morocco’s growing international profile has also strengthened its position as an investment destination. The national team’s historic run to the 2022 World Cup semifinals raised the country’s global visibility, while preparations for the 2030 tournament continue to drive investment in infrastructure and industry.
