European Investment Bank commits EUR 365 mn to Morocco’s transport

The European Investment Bank (EIB) is set to provide EUR 365 mn to finance transport infrastructure in Morocco, according to a statement. The financing package will support upgrades to the country’s motorway network and national railway system. No disbursement timeline or project-level breakdown has been disclosed.

The rail network will also receive a EUR 15 mn EU grant to fund climate resilience measures. This followed a technical assistance partnership agreement with Morocco’s National Office of Railways (ONCF) back in October 2024 to strengthen climate resilience and develop an adaptation strategy for Morocco’s railway network.

Why it matters: The financing dovetails with Morocco’s broader near-shoring appeal. As manufacturers shift production closer to European markets to reduce supply chain risks, the country has been investing in roads, railways, ports and industrial zones. The transport upgrade also complements private sector investments in Morocco’s logistics sector, with AP Moller Capital — the local arm — recently closing a USD 243 mn transport and logistics fund from Mohammed VI Investment Fund (FM6I).

Also in the pipeline: The EIB is expanding its cooperation with the FM6I to help mobilize private investment into businesses, infrastructure, and venture capital projects.

BACKGROUND- The European bank has financed projects in Morocco since 1979 and says it has mobilized more than EUR 12 bn for infrastructure, economic development, and climate projects over nearly five decades.