Morocco’s vast phosphate deposits are setting the nation up as a key player in the global battery supply chain, according to a recent Bne Intellinews report. With approximately 70% of the world’s known phosphate reserves, Morocco is poised to significantly increase its wealth through its pivotal role in both fertilizer and battery production.
The report highlights that phosphate rock is essential for lithium iron phosphate, a critical component for electric vehicles and energy storage batteries. This dual importance underscores Morocco’s potential influence on both agriculture and the electric vehicle (EV) industries.
Despite China producing 90 million tonnes of phosphate in 2023, the report emphasizes Morocco’s significant role as the world’s second-largest producer with 35 million tonnes produced in the same year. Morocco’s substantial reserves offer a unique opportunity to expand its dominance in the phosphate supply chain, especially given the rising demand for battery materials.
Morocco’s strategic coastal location on the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea, along with the operational excellence of its Tanger Med Port, ideally positions the country to capitalize on its phosphate resources for the booming fertilizer and battery markets, according to Africa Energy Portal. This aligns with the government’s ambitious plan to transform the nation into a global hub for battery mineral production and processing, with several major EV battery plants already announced.
However, the report stresses that only with the right strategic vision and government effort can Morocco transform its economy and emerge as a leading global player in the green technology and fertilizer markets.
Additionally, the report highlights Morocco’s rich mineral diversity, including significant reserves of lead, zinc, silver, cobalt, and other valuable metals. It notes that Morocco is not only a global leader in phosphate and fertilizer exports but also holds prominent positions in silver, fluorite, and barite production.
