Morocco’s New Role in BRICS: Gateway to Europe & Africa
Morocco might not be the first country you associate with BRICS. But behind the scenes, this North African powerhouse is positioning itself as one of the most strategically important players in the Global South—and a potential connector between continents.
Let’s break it down: why Morocco matters, what’s already happening, and how this country could become BRICS’ bridge between Africa and Europe.
🌍 A Geographic Power Move
Morocco sits at the northern tip of Africa, just 8 miles from Spain across the Strait of Gibraltar. That alone gives it a massive advantage. It’s one of the only African countries with:
Deep ties to both Europe and Africa
Direct shipping routes to the U.S., Latin America, and Asia
Access to Mediterranean and Atlantic trade
It’s like a connector plug—able to fit into multiple systems.
And BRICS nations are noticing.
🚢 Port of Tangier Med: The Quiet Giant
Tangier Med is not just a port—it’s a global logistics machine.
It’s now the largest port in Africa (and one of the top 25 in the world by container traffic)
Strategically located at the crossroads of major trade routes
A hub for BRICS+ countries exporting to Europe, North America, and beyond
China has already invested heavily here as part of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Expect other BRICS countries to follow suit.
🛤️ Infrastructure That Actually Works
While many African nations are just starting to build out roads and rail, Morocco is already rolling:
Africa’s first high-speed rail line (connecting Tangier to Casablanca)
A growing network of highways and industrial zones
Renewable energy projects (solar + wind) powering the grid
In other words, Morocco is ready now—not 10 years from now.
🔋 Natural Resources, Green Energy & Rare Earths
Here’s something that doesn’t get enough press: Morocco holds over 70% of the world’s phosphate reserves. That’s critical for agriculture—and it gives Morocco real leverage in a world dealing with food shortages and fertilizer disruptions.
The country is also going all-in on green energy:
Building one of the world’s largest solar farms (Noor Ouarzazate)
Exporting clean power to Europe
Partnering with China and India on sustainability tech
For BRICS+ countries seeking energy security, Morocco is a key player.
🤝 Diplomacy & BRICS+ Application
In 2023, Morocco expressed interest in joining BRICS+, signaling a desire to align with rising economic powers. While the exact timeline is unclear, it’s not a question of “if”—it’s “when.”
Morocco already has trade agreements with:
The EU
The U.S.
BRICS heavyweights like China and India
That makes it a potential diplomatic bridge—someone who can negotiate across blocs and open doors others can’t.
💬 Final Thoughts: Morocco Is Playing Chess, Not Checkers
While Western media focuses on Morocco’s beaches and tagines, the country is quietly making some of the most strategic geopolitical moves on the continent.
Tangier Med is moving BRICS exports faster than ever
Renewable energy is putting Morocco on the global power map
Phosphates are turning into leverage
And infrastructure is already in place for serious growth
Morocco isn’t asking for a seat at the table—it’s building the table and inviting everyone to connect through it.
If you’re watching the rise of BRICS and the shift toward a multipolar world, don’t overlook Morocco. It might just be the linchpin that connects continents.
