The Office national des chemins de fer (ONCF) is taking part in the 15th edition of InnoTrans, an international trade fair for transportation technology, in Berlin. The ONCF's pavilion highlights Morocco's major rail development projects and the country's ambitions in the rail industry. This participation comes as Morocco has a significant rail development program underway, with investments of over $10 billion planned by 2030.
The program includes the extension of the high-speed line from Kenitra to Marrakech, which will connect the north of the country to Marrakech. It also involves developing new local rail services and upgrading existing infrastructure. A delegation of 35 professionals from the ONCF is attending the trade fair, where they will meet with major international players in the rail industry, including Alstom, CAF, and Hyundai Rotem.
These three companies have been selected as part of the ONCF's program to acquire 168 new trains, consisting of 18 high-speed trains from Alstom, 40 Intercity trains from CAF, and 110 RER trains from Hyundai Rotem. The program aims to promote the development of a national rail industry, including local train manufacturing and a gradual increase in industrial integration in Morocco.
The ONCF's participation in InnoTrans also includes the signing of several memoranda of understanding, including one between the Moroccan rail industry cluster and its European counterpart. This aims to strengthen ties between Moroccan and European rail industry companies. InnoTrans 2026, taking place from September 22-25, has attracted a record 3,170 exhibitors from 59 countries.
The trade fair, celebrating its 30th anniversary, covers an area of 200,000 square meters at the Berlin exhibition center, featuring 180 world premieres and 113 vehicles from 17 countries. The ONCF's participation in InnoTrans demonstrates Morocco's commitment to developing its rail network and industry. The country's rail development program is expected to have a significant impact on the country's transportation infrastructure.
The ONCF's director-general, Mohammed Smouni, emphasized that the program aims to develop a national rail industry, including local train manufacturing and a gradual increase in industrial integration in Morocco. The acquisition of new trains is part of this strategy, which will also involve partnerships with international companies.
The Moroccan rail industry is expected to benefit from the partnerships and agreements signed during InnoTrans, which will help to strengthen the country's position in the global rail market. The ONCF's participation in the trade fair highlights Morocco's ambitions in the rail sector and its commitment to developing a modern and efficient rail network.
Key points
- Morocco's ONCF is investing over $10 billion in rail development projects by 2030.
- The ONCF is acquiring 168 new trains as part of its rail development program.
- Morocco aims to develop a national rail industry, including local train manufacturing and increased industrial integration.
