The National Office of Hydrocarbons and Mines (ONHYM) and the French geoscience group Viridien have entered into a “multi-client” collaboration aimed at deepening understanding of Morocco’s subsurface and supporting hydrocarbon exploration, according to an announcement
by ONHYM published on Sunday.
The partnership entails developing integrated subsurface data and utilising advanced analysis tools across several sedimentary basins in Morocco considered to have exploration potential.
The goal is to provide exploration stakeholders with a better understanding of the subsurface’s geological characteristics and to help identify new opportunities.
The collaboration will combine ONHYM’s regional and geoscientific expertise with Viridien’s capabilities in seismic imaging, geosciences, and data analysis.
For the Office, this approach is also intended to foster knowledge sharing and technological innovation within the exploration sector.
“This collaboration reflects ONHYM’s commitment to promoting innovation and international partnerships that help unlock Morocco’s hydrocarbon potential,” stated its Director General, Amina Benkhadra.
According to her, combining the expertise of both partners should improve subsurface understanding, attract investment, and accelerate exploration opportunities across the kingdom.
This initiative comes against a backdrop of Morocco’s heavy reliance on energy imports. According to the 2025 guide on Morocco’s energy sector published by the U.S. International Trade Administration, imported fuels meet more than 90% of the country’s energy needs.
Alongside the development of renewable energy, Morocco aims to increase its domestic natural gas production and strengthen its gas infrastructure. Its 2024 gas roadmap notably outlines plans to develop domestic production, liquefied natural gas (LNG) import capacities, and the national transmission network.
MK/AK/Sf/fss/as/APA