Hydrocarbons: Morocco Attracts New Investors and Strengthens Oil and Gas Exploration
The Hydrocarbon Sector Continues to Thrive in Morocco
Morocco’s hydrocarbon sector is experiencing significant momentum. Leïla Benali, the Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, announced that nearly ten companies are currently engaged in oil and gas exploration throughout the country. This development is highlighted by the entry of Moroccan investors into this strategic sector for the first time.
A Dozen Companies Active in Hydrocarbon Exploration
During a recent session of oral questions at the House of Representatives, Minister Benali stated that around ten companies are actively involved in hydrocarbon exploration in Morocco. These operators hold 40 offshore exploration licenses, 9 onshore licenses, and 4 exploitation concessions, showcasing a renewed interest from investors in the Kingdom’s energy potential.
The Minister emphasized that Morocco’s legal framework governing hydrocarbon exploration and extraction is among the most attractive internationally, creating a favorable investment environment.
Gas Discoveries Enhance Morocco’s Appeal
According to the Minister, the efforts made to attract foreign investors, coupled with natural gas discoveries in the Gharb, Essaouira, Tendrara, and off the coast of Larache, have yielded encouraging results. However, she acknowledged that these advancements fall short of the set ambitions, despite the advantages provided by the current legal framework.
To accelerate sector development, the government is implementing a comprehensive reform of the National Office for Hydrocarbons and Mines (ONHYM) to enhance its efficiency and improve the attractiveness of energy projects.
Moroccan Investors Enter the Sector
One of the major developments announced is the arrival of Moroccan investors in oil and gas exploration projects. For Leïla Benali, this involvement of domestic capital is a crucial lever for accelerating the development of energy projects and solidifying the Kingdom’s sovereignty in this strategic area.
Morocco Strengthens Its Oil Product Storage Capabilities
The Minister also addressed the country’s energy supply security. Despite the significant turbulence seen in international markets in recent years, Morocco has experienced no interruptions in petroleum product supplies, thanks to a strategy based on anticipation, coordination among stakeholders, and proactive crisis management.
From 2021 to 2025, national storage capacities have increased by over 30%, equivalent to an additional 17 days of national consumption.
A Strategy for Better Distribution of Stocks Nationwide
Leïla Benali pointed out that nearly 80% of storage capacities are concentrated between Casablanca and the Tanger region. Therefore, the government continues its efforts to develop new infrastructures in various regions of the Kingdom to better distribute strategic stocks, bolster national energy security, and improve the fluidity of the supply system.
