Morocco Rises to 15th Globally in Fraser Institute Mining Investment Ranking

Morocco has strengthened its position as one of the most attractive mining investment destinations in Africa, climbing to 15th place globally in the latest annual survey by the Fraser Institute.

The Fraser Institute Annual Survey of Mining Companies 2025 assessed 68 mining jurisdictions worldwide, including 14 across Africa. The ranking is based on responses from 256 mining and exploration companies collected between August and November 2025, offering one of the most closely watched benchmarks for global mining investment attractiveness.

Morocco’s Mining Investment Attractiveness Improves

Morocco recorded a score of 78.97 out of 100 on the Investment Attractiveness Index, a 4.27-point increase compared to the previous year. The index combines two key indicators:

• Geological (mineral) potential
• Policy Perception Index (PPI)

The country’s performance reflects notable improvements in both areas. Mineral potential increased by 2.73 points, while perceptions of government policy rose significantly by 6.59 points, underscoring progress in regulatory reforms and mining sector governance.

As a result, Morocco is now ranked as the second most attractive mining destination in Africa, behind Botswana, which entered the global top 10 with a leading continental score of 85.99.

Africa’s Mining Sector Gains Momentum

The 2025 survey highlights renewed investor confidence in Africa’s mining sector. Alongside Morocco and Botswana, other top-performing African jurisdictions include:

• Zambia
• Tanzania
• Côte d’Ivoire

Several of these countries recorded measurable gains in investment attractiveness, reflecting improvements in regulatory clarity, institutional stability, and infrastructure development across the continent.

Key Challenges for Morocco’s Mining Sector

Despite its upward trajectory in the global mining ranking, investors identified areas requiring further improvement, including:

• Quality and accessibility of geological databases
• Efficiency of the legal system
• Regulatory enforcement consistency

Addressing these concerns could further enhance Morocco’s competitiveness and attract additional exploration and long-term mining investment.

Mining Remains Strategic to Morocco’s Economy

Morocco’s improved ranking signals growing international confidence in its mining sector, particularly as global demand rises for critical minerals and industrial inputs. The country remains a dominant player in phosphate production and is increasingly positioning itself in emerging mineral segments tied to the global energy transition.

Sustained progress will depend on maintaining transparent policies, ensuring regulatory stability, and expanding access to reliable geological data. With mining playing a central role in economic growth and foreign investment, Morocco’s climb in the Fraser Institute ranking reinforces its standing as a leading African mining hub.