In a significant development for Morocco's rail infrastructure, Vossloh and Futrifer have officially established a joint venture named Vossloh Futrifer Services Maroc, effective July 1, 2026. This new company aims to enhance the maintenance of both national and urban rail networks across the country. The initiative underscores a commitment to local recruitment and training, set to commence in 2027, reflecting a strategic move towards fostering homegrown expertise in the rail sector.
The formation of this partnership brings together Vossloh Services France and Futrifer Indústrias Ferroviárias, a Portuguese rail manufacturing entity in which Vossloh and Diorama hold shares. The newly launched company will be responsible for a comprehensive range of maintenance services, including the upkeep of switch and crossing systems, general track work, and advanced mobile rail welding—both manually and with robotic assistance. Additionally, the venture will specialize in rail grinding and milling, which are critical for ensuring the longevity and safety of rail infrastructure.
Vossloh Futrifer Services Maroc is set to serve the national railway network managed by ONCF (National Office of Railways) as well as urban rail systems in major cities like Casablanca and Rabat. The initial phase of operations will leverage the expertise of seasoned teams from Vossloh Services France and Futrifer, who have collaborated in France since 2024, ensuring a smooth transition and high-quality service delivery from the outset.
While the announcement did not specify the financial details or the duration of the maintenance contracts, it indicates a promising future for rail maintenance in Morocco. The new venture will not only address immediate maintenance needs but also contribute to the broader Moroccan Rail Plan 2040, which envisions the development of approximately 1,300 kilometers of high-speed rail lines alongside enhancements to existing conventional and urban rail systems.
Looking ahead, the joint venture partners are keen to shift from relying on imported teams to developing a robust local workforce. In this regard, Vossloh is actively involved in a larger initiative to establish a vocational training center dedicated to nurturing talent within Morocco’s railway sector. This endeavor is pivotal as it aligns with Morocco's ambitions to modernize its rail infrastructure while simultaneously creating job opportunities for its citizens.
Vossloh's longstanding presence in Morocco, highlighted by a notable contract in 2024 for supplying rail fastening systems and turnouts for the upcoming high-speed line connecting Casablanca and Marrakesh, further solidifies its role in the country's evolving rail landscape. This joint venture not only represents a strategic business collaboration but also a commitment to enhancing the operational efficiency and safety of Morocco's railway systems.
As reported by railway.supply.
