Morocco's Ministry of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development has initiated an international prequalification process for a substantial new gas pipeline network, marking a key step in structuring the nation's energy infrastructure.

The project, which seeks to create a strategic backbone connecting the country's port terminals and existing gas infrastructure to major industrial hubs, will be executed under a public-private partnership (PPP) model, based on Law 86-12.

The two-stage international tender begins with a prequalification phase designed to vet candidates' technical and financial capacity. According to a public notice issued by the ministry, the chosen partner will be responsible for the design, construction, financing, and operation of the new network.

The planned pipeline system is structured around several critical segments. A primary section will link the future gas terminals at Nador West Med on the Mediterranean coast to the existing Maghreb–Europe gas pipeline. A subsequent extension is planned to run towards major industrial zones near Kenitra and Mohammedia on the Atlantic seaboard.

Interested bidders must submit a comprehensive application file demonstrating proven capability in several technical areas, including detailed engineering, civil works, the construction of high-pressure linear infrastructure, and the installation of complex metering and safety systems.

Additional requirements include adherence to standards for high-pressure pipelines, experience in complex terrain, an environmental management plan, and robust documentation on welding, testing, and commissioning protocols. 

The ministry emphasized that only operators with "proven technical and financial capacity" will qualify for the next phase.

Bids will be opened in a public session on February 3, 2026, with the ministry expecting the new gas transmission network to begin structuring energy flows between the Mediterranean coast and Morocco’s industrial poles starting in 2026.