Morocco’s High-Speed Rail Project Gains Momentum with Chinese Firm

A Chinese firm outbid a French rival to secure a significant portion of Morocco’s High-Speed Rail Project. The China Overseas Engineering Corporation (Covec) emerged victorious with a competitive $135 million bid. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Covec’s proposal was 21% lower than the $174 million bid submitted by French competitor NGE Contracting. This strategic pricing secured the contract to construct the rail section passing through Casablanca, Morocco’s economic capital.

Chinese Involvement in Morocco’s High-Speed Rail Project

Covec is now the fourth Chinese firm involved in this ambitious rail initiative, joining CRCC, China Railway Engineering, and Shandong Hi-Speed Engineering-Construction. Together, these companies play a central role in building Morocco’s transport future.

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The Moroccan National Railways Office (ONCF) approved Covec’s bid, which was $11 million below its original $146 million estimate. This decision aligns with Morocco’s commitment to developing cost-effective infrastructure solutions.

Expansion Plans and Future Impact

The Casablanca section is part of a larger plan to connect Tangiers, Kenitra, Rabat, and Marrakesh with a modern high-speed rail system. French engineering firms Egis and Systra, alongside Morocco’s Novec, are managing this 430km project.

The project includes laying new tracks, upgrading stations, and building two terminal stations and a maintenance hub. Trains will reach speeds of up to 320km/h when the line opens by 2030, enhancing transport ahead of Morocco’s World Cup hosting.

With strategic investments like Morocco’s High-Speed Rail Project, the country aims to establish itself as a hub for global connectivity.

Photo, source: www.globalconstructionreview.com

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