Morocco has unveiled an ambitious mining exploration tender covering 13,000 square kilometres, marking a significant push to attract international investment into its gold and copper sector, as reported by Business Insider Africa.
In a notice issued by the Ministry of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, authorities invited global mining firms to bid for 361 exploration blocks located in the southeast of the country near the Algerian border.
Focus on Tafilalet and Figuig Regions
The acreage lies within the mineral-rich Tafilalet and Figuig Mining Region, an area known for deposits of gold, silver, copper, lead, zinc, and barite. Officials said the tender, referenced as APC No. 1/DGMH/2026, represents approximately 22–25% of the broader mining basin, highlighting the scale of opportunity being opened to investors.
The initiative signals Morocco’s intention to strengthen its position as a competitive mining destination in North Africa, particularly at a time when global demand for critical minerals continues to rise.
Stricter ESG and Sustainability Standards
Authorities emphasized that project selection will be guided by a reinforced multi-criteria evaluation framework. Bidders will be assessed not only on technical expertise and financial capacity, but also on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance.
Efficient use of water and energy resources will be closely examined, alongside proposals incorporating renewable energy solutions, circular-economy models, and energy storage technologies.
The framework aligns with the Africa-focused ESG standards adopted during the Morocco International Mining Congress & Exhibition held in Marrakech in November 2025.
Application Deadline and Legal Framework
Interested companies must submit their applications by 15 May 2026. Submissions should be made to the regional directorates in Errachidia for projects in the Drâa-Tafilalet region, and in Oujda for those in the Oriental region.
Morocco’s mining sector operates under national mining laws designed to enhance transparency, strengthen regulatory oversight, and promote responsible resource development.
With this expansive tender, Morocco is positioning itself as a key player in Africa’s evolving mineral landscape, aiming to attract sustainable investment while unlocking the economic potential of its vast underground resources.
