ALJIHA POST
On March 11, 2025, the Australian-based mining company, Zeus Resources, announced its acquisition of an antimony mining project in Morocco, marking a significant development in the country’s extraction sector. This move is poised to strengthen Morocco’s industrial landscape, particularly in the defense and renewable energy sectors, where antimony is increasingly in demand.
Strategic Acquisition and Global Market Implications
Zeus Resources, a company specializing in mineral exploration, has acquired the antimony project located in the Casablanca region of Morocco from Ashgill Morocco. The project includes six exploration licenses covering a total area of 79 square kilometers. This acquisition, which is subject to shareholder approval, is expected to be finalized through Zeus’s Moroccan subsidiary, Zeus Morocco Resources.
This strategic acquisition is seen as an opportunity for Zeus Resources to tap into the global antimony market, driven by rising demand in industries such as photovoltaic solar energy and military supply chains. The antimony project’s location in a mining-friendly region with established infrastructure supports year-round access and exploration, making it a highly attractive investment.
Morocco’s Ambition to Foster Extractive Industries
Commenting on the development, Dr. Badr El Zahir Al Azraq, a professor of business law and economics at Hassan II University in Casablanca, highlighted Morocco’s growing aspirations in the mining sector. “The Kingdom of Morocco no longer seeks to merely export raw minerals. It is focused on developing and localizing a range of extractive industries, ensuring that these minerals contribute to various sectors such as battery production, automotive, aerospace, and even defense industries,” he stated.
Dr. Al Azraq further emphasized that Morocco’s extractive industries have historically been a driving force behind its economy, with notable examples such as phosphate and silver mining. However, as demand for rare and critical minerals has surged, Morocco finds itself in need of both foreign capital and advanced technologies to further develop its mining sector. The professor pointed out that the country’s objective is to secure funding for these mining projects while simultaneously fostering technological advancements to support its burgeoning industrial base.
“The ultimate goal is to harness these resources to fuel the growth of other industrial sectors, including defense,” said Dr. Al Azraq, noting that Morocco has long sought to position itself as a hub for industrial and renewable energy development.
Future Prospects and Local Integration
In line with Morocco’s industrial vision, economic analyst Yusuf El Karawi El Filali, head of the Moroccan Center for Governance and Management, underscored the potential of extractive industries in the country. Morocco’s diverse geological landscape, rich in minerals, has made it an attractive destination for foreign mining companies, leading to the establishment of significant partnerships to develop local industries.
Mr. El Filali noted that the minerals targeted in foreign investments, such as antimony, are critical raw materials used in a wide range of global supply chains, including military applications. As the country positions itself to strengthen its industrial sectors, particularly defense, the growing involvement of foreign companies is seen as a positive development for Morocco’s economic future.
However, he emphasized that mining companies operating in Morocco must also be mindful of the social implications of their activities. “It is essential that these investments focus on the integration of local communities. Mining companies must work to alleviate local isolation and ensure that the benefits of these projects extend to the surrounding populations,” Mr. El Filali stated.
He also called for these companies to create local employment opportunities and adhere to environmental and safety standards. The social impact of such projects, he argued, should not be overlooked, as it is vital for fostering sustainable development in the regions where mining operations take place.
Conclusion
The acquisition of the antimony project by Zeus Resources underscores Morocco’s growing role as a significant player in the global mining industry. With strategic investments and a vision to enhance its industrial base, the country is positioning itself to benefit from the global demand for critical minerals. However, ensuring that local communities and the environment are considered will be crucial in maximizing the long-term benefits of these developments.
