Desalination of Seawater in Morocco: Towards a Strategic Industry in Full Development
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Desalination of Seawater in Morocco: A Key to Water Security
Desalination of seawater in Morocco is gradually emerging as a central lever for enhancing water security, particularly in a context marked by climate change and increasing pressure on water resources. The Kingdom is thus embarking on a progressive transformation of this sector, aiming to build a robust, structured industry within the next 8 to 10 years.
Strengthening Local Integration
One of the major pillars of this initiative is the increase in local integration rates. Currently estimated at around 35%, this rate is expected to reach nearly 70% in the coming years. This evolution aims to reduce dependency on imports while bolstering national industrial capabilities and fostering the emergence of a competitive local ecosystem.
A Three-Phase Roadmap
The development strategy for the sector is structured around three phases. In the short term, over the next three years, the objective is to enhance existing capacities and raise the local integration rate to 40-45%. In the medium term, between three to five years, efforts will focus on the local manufacturing of strategic components and the establishment of a specialized industrial framework. Finally, in the long term, the aim is to achieve a 70% integration rate and strengthen the country’s technological autonomy.
An Already Operational Industrial Base
Morocco already has an active industrial fabric in desalination, with companies specializing in the manufacture of pumps, metal structures, piping, and small desalination units. Moreover, the use of desalinated water is expanding across various sectors, including agriculture and industry, to meet the rapidly growing demand.
Ongoing Technological Challenges
Despite advancements, certain key components, particularly membranes, remain dominated by foreign technologies. This dependency presents a significant challenge to achieving complete industrial autonomy. Nevertheless, efforts are underway to enhance research, development, and technology transfer.
An International Competitiveness Lever
Beyond meeting national water needs, desalination is seen as a strategic lever for development. The objective is to structure a competitive industrial sector capable of positioning itself in international markets and transforming water scarcity into a sustainable economic opportunity.
This translation captures the essence and tone of the original French article, making it suitable for an English-speaking audience.
