Rabat – Japan Tobacco International (JTI) announced on Friday the launch of construction work for its first Green Factory in North and West Africa.
Located in Tetouan Park within the Tanger Med industrial zone, the new facility represents a significant investment of approximately $92 million (MAD 931 million).
JTI’s decision to invest in Morocco was heavily influenced by the country’s efforts to enhance its business environment, as noted by a company statement.
The project was approved by the National Investment Commission in January 2024 and aligns with Morocco’s 2023 Investment Charter and the “Made in Morocco” policy introduced in 2020.
These initiatives are designed to foster foreign investment and industrial growth by creating a favorable economic climate.
The launching ceremony was attended by Jalal Benhayoun, General Director of the Regional Investment Center (CRI-TTA), along with other key stakeholders.
Jose Luis Amador, General Director of JTI Northern and Western Africa, emphasized the significance of the new factory.
“This is a historic moment that marks the beginning of a new era for JTI in North and West Africa,” Amador said.
He praised the support from Moroccan authorities, which he described as exemplary and in line with Morocco’s reputation for a favorable business environment.
Scheduled to start construction in August 2024, the Tetouan Park factory will feature state-of-the-art technology to achieve its Green Factory status.
Once operational, the facility will generate 170 direct jobs and numerous indirect employment opportunities in the region, with an emphasis on hiring 30% women. This reflects JTI’s commitment to gender inclusion and economic empowerment.
The factory will be built on a 4.7-hectare site with an 18,000-square-meter built area. It will implement energy efficiency measures such as LED lighting and automated climate control systems. Additionally, a rainwater collection and recycling system will be installed to handle non-potable water needs.
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