By Valentine Alexander 
The governments of Spain and Morocco are working on an ambitious project that could reshape how Europe and Africa connect: a €15 billion underwater tunnel running beneath the Strait of Gibraltar. This massive infrastructure plan aims to link the Moroccan city of Tangier with Algeciras in southern Spain. If completed, it would be the first direct rail link between the two continents—an engineering and geopolitical milestone.
This project isn’t brand new. It’s been discussed for decades, but recent events, like the 2030 FIFA World Cup being hosted by Morocco, Spain, and Portugal, have brought it back into focus. Although the tunnel won’t be ready before the World Cup, its long-term impact on trade, tourism, and mobility will be massive.
Right now, most passengers and cargo move between the two countries by ferry, which can be delayed or canceled due to bad weather. A high-speed rail tunnel would provide a much more stable and faster route. For businesses, this means faster delivery times, fewer delays, and reduced transportation risks.
Experts believe that this tunnel could boost bilateral trade between Africa and Europe. Morocco is already a strong trade partner for the European Union, especially in agriculture, textiles, and automotive parts. With a direct rail connection, supply chains would become more efficient, allowing companies to move goods quicker and cheaper.
Tourism could also benefit. Travel between the two continents would be smoother, safer, and more attractive for tourists, especially as both Spain and Morocco are popular global destinations. Increased tourism translates into more revenue for local economies and new job opportunities in hospitality, travel services, and related industries.
However, the project comes with challenges. One major issue is that Morocco’s railway system is not yet fully electrified, meaning more investment will be needed to make sure trains can run efficiently across both sides. There’s also the complexity of building a tunnel underwater, through difficult terrain, and at depths of nearly 900 meters. That’s deeper than the Channel Tunnel between the UK and France, which itself was a major feat.
Despite the hurdles, both countries are moving forward. Spanish engineering firm SECEGSA and Morocco’s SNED are conducting updated feasibility studies. These studies will determine the best technical options and timeline for the project.
If successful, the tunnel will serve as a long-term investment in regional integration. It will strengthen political and economic ties between Europe and Africa, offering new opportunities for businesses, governments, and citizens on both sides of the Mediterranean.
More than just a tunnel, this project is a symbol of future cooperation—where infrastructure becomes a bridge not just between places, but between economies and cultures. As Africa continues to grow as a global economic player, having strong, direct links to Europe could make all the difference.
Leave feedback about this