Morocco is actively courting US investors for its $26 billion gas pipeline project, which aims to connect Nigeria to Morocco, spanning across several West African countries. The project is expected to provide a secure energy supply to 13 African nations and represents one of Africa’s largest cross-border infrastructure projects.
According to Nigerian Finance Minister Wale Edun, “The principal areas of interest include American investments in Nigeria’s natural gas sector, particularly the Nigeria-Morocco pipeline, given the country’s vast gas reserves.” This interest was expressed during high-level bilateral discussions at the International Monetary Fund and World Bank Group meetings in Washington, D.C.
Moroccan Energy Minister Leila Benali emphasized the project’s importance for energy security, highlighting Morocco’s new vision for “early access to the international LNG market, signing upstream gas contracts, and developing infrastructure like the Nigeria-Morocco pipeline.”
The project’s development is moving forward, with feasibility and FEED studies completed. Amina Benkhadra, Director General of Morocco’s National Office of Hydrocarbons and Mines, confirmed that the project is entering a key investment phase, with the first sections expected to be progressively commissioned by 2029.
The project has garnered significant attention, with both the US and China vying for involvement. Morocco’s arbitration framework has been modernized with the enactment of Law No. 95-17 on Arbitration and Conventional Mediation, which aligns with international standards and provides a favorable environment for investors.
Nesrine Roudane, founder and managing partner of Roudane & Partners Law Firm, notes that Morocco has demonstrated a commitment to complying with arbitral awards, indicating a dedication to upholding international obligations and maintaining a favorable environment for investment.
Morocco has signed over 85 Bilateral Investment Treaties and 72 investment treaties for the promotion and protection of investments. The country also has a Free Trade Agreement with the US, eliminating tariffs on over 95% of qualifying consumer and industrial goods.
Morocco offers various incentives, including free export zones and financial activities, to attract foreign investment. These efforts aim to create a stable and attractive investment environment, reassuring investors of their rights and the security of their investments.