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German automotive supplier LEONI Cable Solutions has broken ground on its first industrial plant in Africa in Morocco’s Kenitra Free Trade Zone. The company is investing about €60 million ($68 million) in the facility, which is designed to strengthen Morocco’s role in the global automotive supply chain.
The new plant will manufacture single-core and multi-core automotive cables, including data transmission cables used in advanced driver-assistance systems and autonomous driving technologies. LEONI said the project will support rising demand for more advanced components in electric, connected and automated vehicles.
The investment comes as Morocco has overtaken South Africa as Africa’s most industrialised economy, according to the African Development Bank’s 2025 Africa Industrialisation Index. Morocco’s rise has been driven by industrial upgrading, export diversification and state-backed manufacturing policies, with automotive production among the sectors supporting that growth.
The groundbreaking ceremony brought together government officials, regional authorities, business leaders and partners linked to the project. LEONI Cable Solutions CEO Markus Thoma said the plant represents a commitment to innovation, partnership and sustainable growth, while Morocco’s Industry and Trade Minister Ryad Mezzour said it fits the country’s plan to develop more advanced industries.
Production is scheduled to begin in mid-2027. LEONI initially expects to employ about 90 people, with staffing set to rise to around 200 at full capacity. The plant will occupy a 48,000-square-metre site and include space for industrial operations, offices, testing and future expansion.
The project also reflects changes at LEONI’s parent company, after China’s Luxshare-ICT raised its stake in Leoni AG to 74.9% in April 2026. The Morocco plant marks a deeper push into Africa for the German cable and wiring systems manufacturer.
