The tension prevailing between Morocco and Algeria could lead to the end of the concession of the Maghreb-Europe gas pipeline (GME) linking the neighboring country to Spain. While the kingdom has stated its position on its renewal, Algeria is slow to do so. Its position could be unfavorable.
Morocco aims for self-sufficiency in natural gas by 2050. In this sense, a roadmap has been adopted this Thursday as part of the national energy strategy.
Announced in 2016, the Nigeria-Morocco gas pipeline will be the longest in Africa and should serve Morocco and Spain. Despite the difficulties, this project is progressing and will be delivered as soon as possible, in accordance with the will of King Mohammed VI and his counterpart Muhammadu Buhari.
As of 2023, lump sugar and soft wheat flour will see their state subsidies completely eliminated. This measure also concerns butane gas, but will be done in two stages.
The firefighters of Ceuta continue to warn about the risk of explosion of Moroccan gas cylinders, abandoned in the streets, illegal dumps and containers of the city since the closure of the borders for health reasons.
While Morocco is dragging its feet in the process of renewing the concession of the Maghreb-Europe pipeline, which expires in October, Algeria is reassuring Spain of continuous gas supply via the Medgaz pipeline.
Morocco has raised its reduction commitment, to at least 45.5% of its greenhouse gas emissions, by 2030.
The firefighters of Ceuta have issued an "urgent" call to the population and institutions for the proper evacuation of Moroccan gas bottles, abandoned in the city since the closure of the borders, in order to avoid any explosion.
Algeria has taken precautions in case Morocco does not renew the concession contract for the Maghreb-Europe gas pipeline, whose expiration is due in November, says Toufik Hakkar, the CEO of the Algerian gas company (Sonatrach).
The British company "SDX Energy", based in London and specialized in oil and gas exploration, has decided to suspend its program in Morocco where it has completed its first three wells. A suspension that should last until September or October.
The British company Predator Oil & Gas announced the resumption of drilling operations on its Guercif I to IV project, in eastern Morocco. A decision motivated by the easing of Covid-19 restrictions and the reopening of borders.
The future of the operating contract for the Maghreb-Europe gas pipeline that connects Algeria and Spain by crossing Moroccan territory is far from being mortgaged. Negotiations for its renewal will resume next July.