Morocco and Mauritania are set to enhance their cross-border connectivity with the opening of the Amgala crossing in October, creating a new corridor between Smara in Morocco and Bir Moghrein in northern Mauritania.
The development forms part of Morocco’s broader Atlantic Initiative aimed at integrating the Sahel region into Atlantic trade networks.
The Amgala crossing will complement the existing Guerguerate border post, providing a second land route between the two countries. Strategically located east of the Sahara, the new corridor is expected to reshape regional trade flows, linking Mahbes in the north to Aousserd in the south and offering direct logistical access to Mauritania and beyond, including Mali.
“This opening represents a key step in regional integration and economic cooperation,” said an official involved in the project. “It will strengthen Morocco’s role as a platform for trade with the Sahel and improve connectivity for landlocked countries in the region.”
The Royal Armed Forces (FAR), working closely with their Mauritanian counterparts, have conducted extensive consultations to secure the crossing and ensure smooth operations. Security measures and trade facilitation protocols are being put in place to guarantee that the flow of goods and people is safe and efficient.
The initiative is part of Morocco’s long-term strategy to position its southern provinces as a hub for regional commerce. By establishing new transit routes, the two countries aim to boost bilateral trade, reinforce geopolitical ties, and contribute to the economic stability of the broader Sahel region.
Bilateral cooperation on the project reflects a shared commitment to structured trade and sustainable development, with plans for additional border crossings under consideration. Analysts note that the Amgala corridor could significantly reduce transportation costs, shorten travel times, and encourage investment in the northern Sahel, creating new opportunities for local economies.
As October approaches, anticipation grows among traders and regional stakeholders, who view the Amgala crossing as a transformative step toward deeper economic integration between Morocco, Mauritania, and the wider Sahel region.
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