The economic and industrial relations between Morocco and Mauritania are entering a transformative phase as the two nations announced a groundbreaking project to establish a joint industrial zone covering an impressive area of 800 hectares. This initiative is poised to become one of the largest industrial zones of its kind in Africa, reflecting both countries' commitment to enhancing their economic collaboration.
This announcement was made during the fourteenth edition of the International Exhibition for Production Technologies and Mechanical, Metal, and Electromechanical Industries, known as "SISTEP IMME 2026," held at the Casablanca International Exhibition Center. The event saw participation from international companies and delegations, including representatives from Mauritania, China, and Italy, further emphasizing the global interest in this venture.
Sheikh Sidi Mohamed Ould Ahmedou, the Director General of Industry at the Mauritanian Ministry of Mines and Industry, stated that work is actively underway to establish this joint industrial zone. He highlighted that Moroccan companies will have priority in setting up projects within this zone, enjoying the same rights as Mauritanian firms, which ensures that their investments will not be classified as foreign investments. This strategic approach is intended to foster a collaborative environment conducive to mutual growth.
Ould Ahmedou further elaborated that the project aims to provide a direct gateway to European markets via Morocco, underscoring the zone's potential to enhance trade relations. He described the envisioned industrial area as the largest in Africa, although specific timelines for the commencement of construction and the magnitude of associated investments remain undisclosed.
In addition, Abdelhamid Souiri, President of the Moroccan Federation of Mechanical, Metal, and Electromechanical Industries, mentioned that discussions also encompassed the creation of joint ventures and the development of the zone to facilitate the expansion of businesses into African markets, particularly in the Sahel and West Africa regions.
Mauritania is the guest of honor at this year's exhibition, which dedicated a day to discussing industrial cooperation between the two countries under the theme "Morocco - Mauritania: From Industrial Integration to Joint Ventures." This event aims to focus on developing shared value chains in industry, mining, and energy, marking a significant step toward deeper economic integration.
As reported by assahifa.com.
