Mining Exploration and Development

Non-phosphate minerals in Morocco follow the three-tier mining licence system under Mining Law No. 33-13—exploration authorization → research permit → exploitation licence—approved by the Ministry of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development (MEM), while the National Office of Hydrocarbons and Mines (ONHYM) is responsible for geological data and cooperative exploration. Exploration authorization areas cover 100–600 square kilometres (2 years, renewable for 1 year); an exploitation licence is valid for 10 years and can be continuously renewed, must be held by a legal entity in Morocco, and foreign investors may hold 100% equity. Mining licence holding costs are low (50 dirhams per square kilometre for exploration), with core spending on exploration work and infrastructure.

Implementation path: Greenfield development takes about 7-10 years from establishment to production; brownfield M&A can gain control in 6-18 months; combining both is recommended. Equipment imports can use the CGI 92-I-6° 36-month Value Added Tax (VAT) exemption and customs economic regime (RED); mining equipment qualifies for a preferential 2.5% tariff. Investments ≥ MAD 50 million can apply for an investment agreement through the AMDIE/CRI single window, locking in up to 30% subsidies. Mining licence information can be verified online via the Digital Mining Cadastre Portal (dmcm.mem.gov.ma).