Any mineral investment in Morocco should begin with two separate questions: Does the geology justify further work? and What legal right allows that work? Morocco’s Mining Law No. 33-13 and its implementing decree provide the core framework for mining titles and procedures.
What Law 33-13 changed
Law 33-13 modernised the earlier mining framework. ONHYM notes that the law was enacted in July 2015 and entered into force on 23 May 2016. The legislation and implementing texts should be read directly because the applicable title, application documents, work commitments and renewal conditions depend on the proposed activity.
Main types of mining rights
Exploration authorisation
An exploration authorisation is designed for broad preliminary work over a defined area. It should not be confused with a research permit or an exploitation right. Investors must confirm the permitted activities, duration and reporting obligations in the current texts and with the competent authority.
Research permit
A research permit gives its holder a legal framework for mineral research within a defined perimeter. The law and Decree No. 2-15-807 address application procedures, technical programs and supporting documents. A credible application therefore needs more than a map: it needs an exploration rationale, work program, budget and evidence of technical and financial capacity.
Exploitation licence and mining concession
Moving from exploration to exploitation requires technical and legal evidence that is different from early-stage prospecting. Resource understanding, mine planning, processing, environment, rehabilitation and financial capacity become progressively more important.
Due diligence before acquiring or negotiating a permit
- Verify the exact title, perimeter, holder and validity dates.
- Review work commitments, expenditure and reporting history.
- Confirm whether renewal, transfer or transformation is legally possible.
- Examine available geological work and whether results support the project narrative.
- Identify environmental, land-access and community constraints.
- Use qualified Moroccan legal advice for contracts and regulatory interpretation.
Why geology still matters in a legal transaction
A valid permit is not the same as a validated mineral opportunity. Investors should independently assess the mineral system, target quality, sampling history, analytical data, geophysics and drilling. The commercial value of a mining title depends on both its legal standing and the evidence that supports further exploration.
Reviewing a permit or licence opportunity?
Geo Ore Deposits can support the geological and technical side of permit due diligence, work-program design and field verification. Legal conclusions should be confirmed by qualified counsel.
Official and academic references
- Official text – Law No. 33-13 relating to mines
- Official implementing decree No. 2-15-807
- General Secretariat of Government – presentation of Law 33-13
- Moroccan Ministry – Regulatory Texts
- ONHYM – Regulations and Licensing Process
Information reviewed in September 2026. Regulations, procedures and investment incentives can change; confirm current requirements with the competent Moroccan authorities before acting.