ONCF / Morocco: Contracts Awarded for the Acquisition of 168 Trains Worth $2.9 Billion

The National Railway Office (ONCF) announced on Wednesday that it has finalized the awarding of contracts for the purchase of new trains as part of its development program through 2030. This project, with a total budget of 29 billion dirhams (approximately $2.9 billion), aims to modernize and strengthen Morocco’s railway network.

Under the visionary leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, this initiative plans to acquire 168 next-generation trains with a dual objective: renewing ONCF’s existing fleet and supporting the growing railway traffic, alongside planned expansion projects by 2030. These projects include the extension of the high-speed rail line from Kenitra to Marrakech and the development of regional express railway (RER) services in major urban areas across the Kingdom.

According to ONCF, the awarding of contracts followed a competitive process lasting over a year, involving a structured dialogue with leading global train manufacturers.

Three contracts have been awarded to companies offering the most economically advantageous bids:

• 18 high-speed trains: Awarded to a consortium consisting of the French company ALSTOM Transport S.A and ALSTOM Railways Maroc.
• 40 Intercity trains: Awarded to the Spanish company Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles (CAF).
• 110 RER trains (Rapid Transit & Metropolitan Trains): Awarded to the South Korean company Hyundai Rotem.

These contracts include industrial compensation commitments, fostering railway manufacturing activities in Morocco. One of the key projects involves setting up a local train manufacturing plant, paving the way for future train exports in the medium and long term.

Additionally, ONCF and the selected manufacturers will enter into multi-year train maintenance agreements to ensure long-term operational efficiency. These contracts have been financed through highly concessional loans from partner countries.

Through this strategic investment, ONCF solidifies its role as a key player in sustainable mobility in Morocco, while contributing to preparations for the co-hosting of the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal.

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