China launches first rail-sea logistics route to Morocco

China has officially launched its first rail-sea logistics corridor to Morocco, marking a significant milestone in Sino-African trade connectivity.

The new route begins in Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province, and travels by rail through Poland, Germany, and Spain, before containers are transferred to ships in Barcelona and shipped to Tanger Med, Morocco’s largest port, Medias24 reported.

This is the first time a China-Europe Railway Express line has been extended to an African Mediterranean port, and it is expected to reduce delivery times from over 35 days to just 20 days.

The project is led by Sichuan Silk Road Supply Chain Management in partnership with DPD, a subsidiary of France’s La Poste.

The corridor is designed to enhance trade efficiency and supply chain resilience, offering an alternative to traditional maritime routes that pass through the Suez Canal or around the Cape of Good Hope.

While the route may not yet be cheaper than sea freight, it is expected to attract more operators and facilitate Moroccan exports to China, especially as Beijing gradually lifts tariffs on African goods.

Morocco has emerged as a strategic partner in China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). In January 2022, it became the first North African country to sign a formal BRI implementation plan with China.

This agreement laid the groundwork for cooperation in infrastructure, logistics, energy, and digital connectivity. Morocco’s geographic position, at the crossroads of Africa, Europe, and the Atlantic, makes it a natural hub and gateway for China’s trade with the rest of Africa.

Chinese investment in Morocco has grown steadily over the past decade, particularly in sectors such as automotive manufacturing, renewable energy, and infrastructure.

Chinese firms are involved in the development of Tangier Tech City, a massive industrial and innovation zone near Tanger Med. Additionally, Chinese companies have invested in solar and wind energy projects, contributing to Morocco’s green transition. Chinese firms are also leading investments in Morocco’s growing EV battery sector, with Gotion hightech building Africa’s first gigafactory in the country.

The new logistics corridor is expected to further encourage Chinese businesses to use Morocco as a base for accessing African and European markets.