Hyundai Rotem secures landmark $1.5 billion contract to modernize Morocco's rail network
Hyundai Rotem has signed a historic contract worth 2.2 trillion won ($1.5 billion, or about 15 billion dirhams) with Morocco's National Railway Office (ONCF), marking the largest order in the South Korean company's history.
According to Hyundai Rotem's announcement on Wednesday, the agreement involves supplying double-decker trains for Morocco's railway network. These trains, which can reach speeds of up to 160 km/h, will connect Casablanca, Morocco's largest city, to key regions across the country. This project is a major step in modernizing public transport as Morocco prepares to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup with Spain and Portugal.
Hyundai Rotem highlighted that Korail's proposal, which includes technology transfers and training programs, was well received by the Moroccan government. A portion of the train production will take place in Morocco, helping to develop the country's railway industry.
Additionally, Hyundai Rotem and the Korea Railroad Corporation (Korail), a state-owned company, will handle train maintenance and repairs through separate agreements with Moroccan authorities.
This contract marks Hyundai Rotem's entry into the Moroccan market, a success the company credits to strong collaboration between the public and private sectors. The South Korean Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport, along with Korail, played a key role in securing the deal against European competitors. Notably, South Korea's Minister of Transport, Park Sang-woo, visited Morocco last year to promote the competitiveness of South Korea's railway sector.
«This contract was secured thanks to a 'One Team Korea' approach, where public and private sectors worked together to showcase South Korea's railway expertise on a global scale», said a Hyundai Rotem representative.
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