Renault's factories in Valladolid and Palencia, Spain, have experienced work stoppages for the first time since the 1970s, according to reports from Spanish media. The stoppages are linked to an impasse in negotiations over a new collective bargaining agreement, which could lead the company to cancel production of six new models.
Industry sources suggest that Renault may relocate this production to its plant in Tangier, Morocco, which has lower labor costs and a more flexible labor environment. The Tangier facility is one of Renault's largest production sites globally, with an annual capacity of over 400,000 vehicles.
The potential move underscores the growing competitiveness of Morocco's automotive sector, which has attracted major investments from manufacturers like Renault and Stellantis. The Spanish unions have called for urgent talks with management to resolve the dispute and safeguard jobs.