Hyundai Rotem, South Korea’s leading rail manufacturer, is on the verge of securing a landmark contract to supply 150 trains to Morocco. This strategic deal, which includes 40 intercity trains, 60 high-speed trains, and 50 regional trains, also features a 20-year maintenance agreement.
If successful, this contract will significantly enhance Morocco’s rail infrastructure as the country prepares to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup with Spain and Portugal.
Read also: Morocco’s role in sustainable mobility: Insights from the Green Impact Expo 2025
Competing for Morocco’s rail expansion
Morocco has ambitious plans to modernise its railway network, ensuring efficient connectivity and supporting economic growth. Competing for this lucrative contract, Hyundai Rotem faced tough competition from French Alstom, Spain’s Talgo, and China’s CRCC. However, Hyundai’s standout proposal includes establishing a local factory to facilitate technology transfer and stimulate Morocco’s railway industry. This strategic move aligns with Morocco’s vision of boosting local manufacturing and technological advancement.
In a recent update, Morocco narrowed its selection to Hyundai Rotem and Spain’s CAF, excluding Talgo and Alstom. This decision highlights Morocco’s focus on innovative solutions and strategic partnerships, as Hyundai’s plan to build a domestic production facility promises long-term industry benefits, including job creation and economic growth.
Boosting Morocco’s high-speed rail network with Colas
Complementing this potential deal, Morocco has also made significant strides in expanding its high-speed rail network. In February 2025, French construction giant Colas secured three contracts worth €430 million to extend the high-speed line between Kenitra and Marrakech. This investment is part of Morocco’s broader infrastructure development plan, geared towards supporting the 2030 World Cup.
Colas, through its Moroccan subsidiary Grands Travaux Routiers (GTR), will undertake a €180 million civil engineering project spanning 40 kilometres. Additionally, Colas Rail, in partnership with SETEC, secured contracts totaling €250 million to design and construct tracks, overhead lines, and electrical substations for a 346 kilometre high-speed section and a 112 kilometre regional network. This strategic expansion not only enhances Morocco’s connectivity but also strengthens its position as a regional transport hub.
Read also: Morocco to revert to GMT to allow Muslims break their fast with sunset
Driving towards the future of mobility in Morocco
As Hyundai Rotem edges closer to securing this transformative contract, Morocco’s railway landscape is set for remarkable growth. With the addition of state-of-the-art trains and an expanded high-speed rail network, Morocco is paving the way for enhanced mobility, reduced travel times, and sustainable economic development.
The combination of Hyundai Rotem’s cutting-edge technology and Colas’ infrastructure expertise reflects Morocco’s commitment to modernizing its transport system. This ambitious railway expansion underscores Morocco’s vision for the future, positioning the country as a leader in efficient and sustainable transportation in North Africa.