The Kenitra Industrial Zone "Atlantic Free Zone": an emerging model of geostrategic development in Africa – A case study of the automotive industry

Abstract

The cities along Morocco’s Atlantic coast have become a hub for local development, notably the city of Kenitra. Strategically located in north-western Morocco, this city has played a key role in attracting foreign investment to this promising region. The city of Kenitra is emerging as a national and African automotive industrial hub thanks to the Stellantis cluster, formerly known as PSA. This cluster has established itself in the AFZ industrial zone to capitalise on the region’s advantages and potential, such as its geographical location, human and natural resources, and proximity to the infrastructure linking northern and central Morocco. The Stellantis cluster has managed to achieve prosperity in a very short period, despite the various challenges that hinder its development.