Morocco is positioning itself as an attractive hub for battery manufacturers as doubts about electric vehicles (EVs) continue to linger in Europe, according to Forococheselectricos, a website dedicated to EV and sustainable transport technologies.
This shift in sentiment is primarily driven by recent policy changes in Germany, which have cast a shadow of uncertainty over the industry’s growth prospects.
Despite the ongoing rise in EV sales, growth is progressing much more slowly, the same source stated. Growing skepticism among consumers, politicians, and manufacturers has created an unfavorable climate for new investments in the EV sector.
In response to these challenges, the article notes, battery manufacturers are actively seeking alternative locations for their operations, and Morocco has emerged as a frontrunner.
Recognizing the significant investments expected in the EV sector in the coming years, the Kingdom has seized the opportunity to position itself as a major player.
The article highlighted that Morocco has actively pursued collaborations with leading Chinese groups, which see the kingdom as an unexpectedly attractive location for battery production.
One of the latest companies to join this trend is Chinese battery manufacturer Gotion. Initially planning to set up a battery factory in Europe, Gotion confirmed plans to build a gigafactory in the Moroccan city of Kenitra.
This €1.2 billion investment is expected to provide direct employment for more than 2,000 people, according to the article.
Gotion’s gigafactory will join five other Chinese battery manufacturers setting up operations in an industrial zone where Stellantis and Renault factories are also located.
The same source mentioned that this is expected to transform Morocco into a major export hub for electric vehicles and batteries to Europe within a few years.
One reason for attracting Chinese investments is the country’s abundance of mineral resources such as phosphates, manganese, and cobalt.
The report highlighted other factors driving Chinese investments, including economic and political stability, well-developed infrastructure, a young and skilled workforce, extensive free trade agreements with key markets, and abundant renewable energy sources like solar and wind energy.
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