Morocco Takes the Lead in Automobile Manufacturing in Africa and Establishes a Global Industrial Hub
Achieving a significant leap in the automotive sector in 2024, Morocco tops the list of African countries in terms of production volume, with a total of 559,645 vehicles, including 524,467 passenger cars. This figure accounts for approximately 60% of the total passenger car production on the continent, surpassing South Africa, which recorded only 350,384 units.
This Moroccan leadership is not a coincidence but the result of accumulated strategic investments and a comprehensive industrial infrastructure, with a local integration rate exceeding 65%. Renault and Stellantis have been central to this progress, with the former producing 413,614 vehicles at its Tangier and Casablanca plants, while the latter contributed 111,000 vehicles from its Kenitra factory.
The kingdom is preparing for a new phase of expansion, as Renault plans to increase its production to half a million vehicles annually, aiming for a local integration rate of up to 80% by 2030. This trajectory reinforces Morocco’s position as a competitive industrial hub globally and opens the door for additional investments in advanced manufacturing.
At the same time, South Africa, traditionally a leader in this field, faces structural challenges that have affected its performance. Despite hosting 12 factories and a century of industrial experience, its production declined by 5.2% compared to 2023 due to chronic infrastructure and energy problems.
Looking ahead, Morocco is making its early presence felt in the electric vehicle market, producing models such as the Citroën Ami and Opel Rocks-e, positioning itself favorably to keep pace with global environmental and industrial shifts.
