Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer has signed a preliminary investment agreement with Morocco aimed at enhancing the country’s aerospace sector, particularly through the establishment of a maintenance and repair facility. This move aligns with Royal Air Maroc’s plans to expand its fleet significantly over the next fourteen years, while Safran also plans to build an MRO plant in Morocco, reinforcing the country’s growing aerospace industry.
Brazil’s Embraer has entered into a preliminary agreement with Morocco to invest in the civilian and defense aerospace sectors of the nation, as announced by the Ministry of Industry in Morocco. The investment will notably include the establishment of a maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility. This new facility is anticipated to enhance Embraer’s prospects in securing a portion of a recent aircraft procurement tender initiated by Royal Air Maroc (RAM). During the Marrakech Air Show, where this agreement was finalized, RAM’s Chief Executive Officer, Abdelhamid Addou, indicated plans to significantly expand the airline’s fleet from 50 to 200 aircraft over the next fourteen years. This expansion aims to reinforce RAM’s role as a key air carrier connecting Africa with Europe and the Americas. Additionally, Safran, a leading aircraft engine manufacturer, recently formalized an agreement with the Moroccan government to construct an MRO plant at an investment of 130 million euros (approximately $141.14 million).
Morocco has strategically encouraged investment from aerospace suppliers in recent years with an aspiration to replicate its achievements in the automotive sector. The country boasts a robust aerospace industry comprising 147 manufacturing units that produce a variety of components, from cables to advanced engine parts. In the previous year, this sector achieved exports totaling $2.2 billion and has established strong partnerships with global aircraft manufacturers such as Boeing and Airbus. This growing aerospace hub is aimed at enhancing supply chain efficiency and fostering technological expertise within Morocco.
In summary, Embraer’s commitment to investing in Morocco’s aerospace sector signifies a pivotal step towards bolstering the country’s capabilities in both civilian and defense aerospace manufacturing. As the Moroccan government continues to promote foreign investment, the establishment of MRO facilities will likely play a critical role in supporting national carriers like RAM in achieving their fleet expansion goals. This initiative, together with Safran’s recent investment, underscores Morocco’s ambition to solidify its position as a key player in the global aerospace industry.
Original Source: www.marketscreener.com
