Hyundai Rotem has secured a historic 2.2 trillion won ($1.5 billion) train order with Morocco, providing double-decker trains to enhance local public transportation ahead of the 2030 World Cup. The endeavor will include local production to support Morocco’s railway industry and is expected to benefit small Korean companies. This deal represents Hyundai Rotem’s first venture into Morocco’s rail market and highlights collaborative efforts within the Korean railway sector.
Hyundai Rotem has achieved a major milestone by securing a record contract worth 2.2 trillion won (approximately $1.5 billion) with Morocco’s National Railways Office. This agreement marks the company’s largest single order ever, committed to supplying double-decker trains to enhance Morocco’s public transportation network.
The new trains are designed to reach speeds of up to 160 kilometers per hour, significantly improving connectivity between Casablanca and other vital regions. This initiative aligns with Morocco’s preparations to co-host the 2030 World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal, aiming to strengthen local public transportation.
In a bid to foster growth in Morocco’s railway industry, production will take place locally. Hyundai Rotem, in collaboration with the state-run Korea Railroad Corporation (Korail), will oversee the maintenance and repair of the trains through further negotiations with Moroccan authorities.
This contract not only marks Hyundai Rotem’s debut in the Moroccan market but is also expected to benefit small to medium-sized Korean enterprises, given that around 90 percent of the train components will be sourced from these local firms.
Hyundai Rotem attributed this achievement to a cohesive effort between public and private sectors, including the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport and Korail, which collectively enhanced Korea’s competitiveness against European competitors. Transport Minister Park Sang-woo’s visit to Morocco last year helped promote the strength of Korea’s railway technology.
Furthermore, Korail’s offer to share technological expertise and provide training for Moroccan personnel was met with enthusiasm by the Moroccan government. This deal positions Hyundai Rotem strategically to expand its influence in the African market, complementing its ongoing projects in nations like Tunisia, Tanzania, and Egypt.
Significantly, Hyundai Rotem’s track record includes notable contracts, such as the 1.4 trillion won project for double-decker trains in Australia and contracts for the 2028 Los Angeles Metro, showcasing its ability to compete on a global stage.
“The secured order is a case that was achieved through ‘One Team Korea’ bringing the public and private sectors together, acknowledging the Korean railway’s competitiveness in the global market,” stated a Hyundai Rotem official. “We will do our best to supply high quality trains to not only (Moroccan) citizens but also visitors to the 100th World Cup in 2030 so they can safely and conveniently ride them.”
In summary, Hyundai Rotem has successfully secured a landmark 2.2 trillion won contract with Morocco, which includes the provision of double-decker trains to transform the country’s public transportation system. This achievement illustrates the effectiveness of collaborative efforts between Korean public and private sectors and highlights the overall economic benefits poised for Morocco, especially as it prepares to co-host the 2030 World Cup.
Original Source: www.koreaherald.com
