Morocco and China have signed an agreement that will see the Shandong Shangang group invest in a modern manufacturing plant for the production of steel pipe in the free-trade zone of Tangier Automotive City. (pictured)

This is expected to produce 250,000 tonnes of pipe a year, which will be exported to other African countries and Europe.

Trade Minister Moulay Hafid Elalamy said: “This contract reflects our determination to bring in a number of Chinese manufacturers looking for competitive alternatives.”

Qian Yong, vice-president of the Shandong Shangang group, said: “The development of this plant is expected to create 200 jobs in Morocco. We also intend to extend the partnership with Morocco to other African countries.”