Asger Risom
China has quietly become one of Morocco’s biggest green technology investors, pumping over $18 billion into the North African country. But what makes Morocco such a strategic magnet for Chinese capital—and what does this mean for Europe?
China has quietly become one of Morocco’s biggest green technology investors, pumping over $18 billion into the North African country. But what makes Morocco such a strategic magnet for Chinese capital—and what does this mean for Europe?
A Strategic Alliance Rooted in Green Ambitions
China, the world leader in green technologies, is investing heavily in Morocco to secure access to critical raw materials and manufacturing bases. A Johns Hopkins report ranks Morocco second only to Indonesia in Chinese green tech investment.
Morocco’s Secret Weapon: Phosphates
Holding more than 70% of the world’s known phosphate reserves, Morocco has become indispensable to the global push for clean energy. Phosphates are essential for producing lithium iron phosphate batteries—vital for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage.
The Battery Boom Drives Investment
Battery material manufacturing has emerged as the leading sector for Chinese green tech investment in Morocco. With rising global demand for electric vehicles, the supply chain for batteries has become a top geopolitical priority.
Solar, Wind, and Hydrogen on the Agenda
Beyond batteries, Chinese companies are investing in Morocco’s solar and wind sectors, as well as green hydrogen. These projects align with China’s ambitions to lead in next-generation clean energy solutions.
Europe: The Key Geographic Advantage
Morocco’s close proximity to Europe gives Chinese firms a convenient launchpad for exporting to EU markets. Its free trade agreements and pro-industrial policies make it an attractive and efficient production hub.
A Win-Win for Both Countries
While China secures raw materials and manufacturing capabilities, Morocco benefits from job creation, technology transfer, and global relevance in the clean energy space—a rare economic sweet spot.
The Bigger Picture: Geopolitical Leverage
China’s investment push is not just economic—it’s strategic. As the EU and US compete for green dominance, China’s foothold in Morocco strengthens its influence in the global energy transition.
Draghi’s Warning: Europe’s Dependency Risk
Former Italian PM Mario Draghi has warned that the EU’s limited response capacity in global affairs stems from its reliance on Chinese and US technologies. China’s moves in Morocco may deepen that dependency if Europe doesn’t act fast.
This article is made and published by Asger Risom, which may have used AI in the preparation
