ABCC EF 25.02

ISSN: 29770815

ECONOMIC FOCUS

ISSUE 25.02 | Summer 2025

MAGAZINE OF THE ARAB BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Let’s talk about Morocco SPO N SORED BY

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Contents

04

34

22

36

CONTENTS

42

ABCC ACTIVITIES

22

04

4th Arab British Economic Summit 2025 & Expo

Morocco’s Digital Economy and Innovation

24

Morocco’s Renewable Energy

10

Third Members’ Networking Event of 2025

28

Morocco’s Transport Transformation

FORTHCOMING EVENTS

34

Morocco’s Agri-Food Exports

Summer Reception

36

Financial Hub & Trade Gateway

ABCC SERVICES

38

Social Reform & Human Capital

15

ABCC New Members

42

UK and Morocco Seek to Boost Trade and Investment Partnership

16

ABCC Membership

14

LET’S TALK ABOUT MOROCCO 18

Morocco Country Profile

QUARTERLY ECONOMIC SURVEY 46

British Chambers of Commerce Quarterly Economic Survey Q2 2025

ISSN: 1751-4339

ECONOMIC ECONOMIC FOCUS FOCUS

ISSN: 1751-4339

ISSUE 25.02 | SummerISSUE 2025 4 NEW SERIES | Summer 2024

M A G A Z I N E O F T H E A R A B MBARGI A TZ I SI N H E C OH FA M B EE RA R OA F BC O TH BM R IM T IESRHC EC H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E

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Let’s talk about Morocco

Sameh Metawea: sameh@waltonsdigitalmedia.com General Enquiries Arab-British Chamber of Commerce 43 Upper Grosvenor Street London W1K 2NJ Tel: +44 (0) 20 7235 4363 Web: www.abcc.org.uk

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Media No. 1841 Published July 2025 ©WPL Contract Publishing Ltd

ABCC Editorial Team Abdeslam El-Idrissi Editor in Chief David Morgan | Editor Email: d.morgan@abcc.org.uk Morocco content by Sameh Metawea, Waltons Digital Media

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Disclaimer Arab British Business Economic Focus is published for ABCC and is distributed without charge to Chamber members. All correspondence should be addressed to the Arab-British Chamber of Commerce. Views expressed in Arab British Business Economic Focus are not necessarily those of the ABCC. Reprinting in whole or part is forbidden except by permission. ©2025 Please note that submitting an article does not guarantee publication. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material in this journal, WPL Contract Publishing Ltd and its agents can except no responsibility for the veracity of claims made by contributions in advertising or editorial content. WPL Contract Publishing and the ABCC cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies in web or email links supplied to us.

The ABCC is dedicated to serving businesses whether they are located in the UK or operating from any Arab country. With decades of experience, the chamber offers expert advice on how to do business in the Arab markets.

ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | 03

ABES 2025

04 | ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

ABCC Activities

ABES 2025 delivers on the ABCC’s core mission of building friendship through trade The 4th Arab British Economic Summit (ABES 2025), the ABCC’s flagship annual business event, was heralded a huge success on its conclusion on Monday 23rd June.

Upwards of 800 delegates had registered for the Summit which took place in the prestigious Hilton London Metropole Hotel venue.

The programme consisted of panel sessions on key topics where growing opportunities existed for UK-Arab collaboration and where expertise aligned with the investment.

These areas were energy innovation, smart cities, infrastructure, Artificial Intelligence, healthcare and education and finance and e-commerce.

The conference discussions were accompanied by a trade expo which saw over 30 companies, mainly ABCC members, and various organisations, showcasing their services, products and projects.

The event was an occasion to celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of the Chamber, a milestone achievement that was marked by the screening of a specially made short video illustrating some of the major highpoints of the ABCC over the half

century of its service to promoting bilateral business and trade.

By providing a vital and unique platform where delegates could build and strengthen relationships, the Summit achieved all its objectives of enabling delegates to explore new opportunities and forge new partnerships.

Formally opening the Summit, Mr Bandar Reda, ABCC Secretary General & CEO, expressed his great pleasure at seeking so many people present joined together in their determination to do business and especially thanked the many Arab delegations who were in attendance.

Noting that 2025 was the ABCC’s milestone 50th anniversary, Mr Reda looked forward to ongoing successes in coming years and towards the next 50 years.

Welcoming remarks were delivered by Dr Khaled Hanafy, Secretary General

of the Union of Arab Chambers, who stressed the vital importance of the Arab private sector and their strong intentions to collaborate closer with their British counterparts.

Dr Hanafy described the ABCC as one of the most successful chambers of commerce established under the auspices of the UAB and the League of Arab States.

Mr Tim Reid, CEO, UK Export Finance, saluted the close UK-Arab trading relationship which he said can be traced back over 400 years. Mr Reid praised the success of ABES 2025 as a mechanism for building collaboration for closer trade and investment.

Mr Reid looked forward to deepening Arab British relations in future and the exciting new opportunities that awaited us and those that would be showcased at ABES 2025. >>>

ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | 05

ABCC Activities

Dr Khaled Hanafy, Secretary General, Union of Arab Chambers

Ms Ebtesam Elkaabi, Vice President, Sales, Jebel Ali Free Zone

H E Zaher Al Qatarneh, Secretary General, Jordan Ministry of Investment

Mr Mohamed Al Khadar Al Ahmed, CEO, Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi (KEZAD Group)

Mr Tim Reid, CEO, UK Export Finance

Mr Bandar Reda, ABCC Secretary General & CEO

Mr Derek Raymond, Olympic World Champion and Chair, Right Brain Thinking, speaking, with Mrs Haifa Al Kaylani, AIWF, Dr Peter Thomas, Moorfields, and Helen Barrett (in partial view)

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Mr Abdeslam El-Idrissi, ABCC Deputy CEO & Secretary General

Host and compere Ms Sarah Russis

ABCC Activities CONTINUED FROM PAGE 05...

Ms Ebtesam Alkaabi, Vice President, Sales, of Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), one of ABES’s prime sponsors, highlighted the attractions of Dubai as a global trading hub evidenced by the increasing number of UK firms seeking to use JAFZA as their base for commercial operations who were joining the hundreds of firms already established in the zone. Ms Elkaabi anticipated that the forthcoming UK-GCC Free Trade Agreement would be a major catalyst for bilateral trade.

driven innovations on key industries such as health, education, energy and finance.

Mrs Haifa Al Kaylani OBE, President and Founder of the Arab International Women’s Foundation (AIWF), and ABCC Board member, reflected on the connections between education and the empowerment of women around the Arab region.

Jordan and the UK enjoyed strong strategic links and there was an opportunity to build on their partnership in key sectors of education, pharmaceuticals and technology where the country had shown its strengths.

Speaking in the session on energy innovation, Mr Chakib Kouidri noted that this was the first time that Algeria was participating in an Arab British Economic Summit and welcomed the opportunity to highlight the potential of his country in expansion of renewables.

In the session on smart cities Mr Simon Penney, former UK Trade Commissioner for the Middle East, told delegates that he was taking part in his fourth ABES. Mr Penney stressed the transformative impact of AI across all sectors and remarked on the impressive advances made in the adoption of AI in the MENA region.

He stressed that Jordan was open to new partners and investors. A promotional video concisely outlining the incentives and support available from Invest Jordan was shown to delegated at the conclusion of H E Al Qatarneh’s contribution.

In his closing remarks, Mr Abdeslam El-Idrissi, ABCC Deputy CEO & Secretary General, described ABES 2025 as an enlightening and invigorating day filled with great conversations and debates driven by energy and eagerness to cooperate and forge new partnerships.

During the high powered sessions, speakers included Tom Wintle, the UK’s Chief Negotiator on the free trade agreement with the GCC, who offered an update on the negotiations and the growth in opportunities that will open up when the UK-GCC FTA comes into force.

ABES 2025 was the occasion for the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on partnership between the ABCC and the Algerian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CACI). To the applause of delegates, the agreement was formally signed by Mr Bandar Reda, ABCC Secretary General & CEO and Mr Chakib Kouidri, Managing Director of CACI, immediately following the panel session on UK-MENA trade.

H E Zaher Al Qatarneh, Secretary General, Ministry of Investment, Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, welcomed the Summit as a means of boosting partnerships and showcasing the attractions of Jordan as a stable, reliable, open commercial environment.

During the day various panel sessions concentrated on the impact of rapidly transformative technologies and AI

Under the terms of the agreement both chambers pledge to work closer together to promote UK-Algeria cooperation and to identify joint opportunities for their respective members.

Gratitude was expressed to key sponsors JAFZA and MARKAZ for their generous support.

The ABCC was looking ahead to ABES 2026 when it would join once again with its Platinum, Gold and Silver members and all its strategic partners to further advance the ABCC’s core mission of friendship through trade.

At the conclusion of the event, the team of enthusiastic young volunteers from schools, colleges and universities were presented with certificates for their invaluable efforts during the Summit.

Host and compere Sarah Russis ensured the smooth running of proceedings throughout the day.

ABES 2025 proved to be an extremely rewarding experience for all participants and delegates as it demonstrated once again that the ABCC continues to be a strategic business support organisation for all companies engaged in bilateral trade and commercial partnerships between the UK and Arab world.

The event strongly emphasised how the Chamber’s core mission remained as relevant as ever as equally does its unwavering pursuit of stronger UK-Arab cooperation. Delegates were invited to join together once again when ABES2026 takes place.

Readers should look out for the full report into ABES2025 which will be published by the ABCC soon.

The ABCC leadership with events team and young volunteers

ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | 07

ABCC Activities

Syrian Delegation Attend ABES Senior executives from the Federation of Syrian Chamber of Commerce headed a Syrian business delegation to ABES 2025. The Arab British Chamber of Commerce was delighted to welcome them to the event and looks forward to working with them in future and greeting them in London again soon.

08 | ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

ABCC Activities

Mr Simon Penney, former UK Trade Commissioner for the Middle East

Ms Julia Onslow-Cole, Partner, Fragomen, Ms Sarah Mooney, HM Trade Commissioner for the Middle East, Mr Tom Wintle, UK-GCC FTA Chief Negotiator, DBT and Mr Karim Fatehi OBE, CEO, London Chamber of Commerce & industry.

Ms Bana Akkad Azhari, BNY, Ms Tracy Vegro OBE, CEO, CISI, Mr Joseph Chakra, UKEF and Mr Gabriele Schiavone, SGS & Partners.

Signing the MoU: Mr Bandar Reda, ABCC Secretary General & CEO and Mr Chakib Kouidri, Managing Director, Algerian Chamber of Commerce

Mrs Haifa Al Kaylani OBE, President & Founder, Arab International Women’s Forum, Ms Helen Barrett, Partner, CBD Corporate Services, Derek Raymond, Right Brain Thinking, and Dr Peter Thomas, Moorfields Private Eye Hospital.

ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | 09

ABCC Activities

Third Members’ Networking Event of 2025

The latest members’ networking event took place at the ABCC’s Mayfair premises on the afternoon of Wednesday 9th July with members, non-members, senior executives and diplomats among the guests and delegates.

Mr Bandar Reda, ABCC Secretary General & CEO, began by delivering welcoming remarks where he stressed the importance that the Chamber places on such gatherings as a means of serving its members better. He looked forward to the opportunity these events provided to interact with members.

Mr Abdeslam El-Idrissi, ABCC Deputy CEO & Secretary General, opened the meeting, chaired the discussions and introduced the speakers.

Mr El-Idrissi pointed to the ABCC’s 50th anniversary year reflecting on our organisation’s decades of service dedicated to business and drew attention

10 | ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

to the recent success of the 4th Arab British Economic Summit which had attracted an audience of over six hundred people including numerous delegations coming from various Arab countries.

For over half a century, the ABCC had been working to bring businesses together to explore the inexhaustible opportunities for collaboration and joint ventures.

Accounts were given of their experiences and activities in the MENA region and their varied services which covered legal advice on visas, working overseas and migration issues, tax planning, Shariah compliant mortgages and pensions, catering and the uniqueness of Moroccan fine cuisine, luxury hotel options in London and assistance with market entry and set up in Saudi Arabia and elsewhere in the Arab world.

During the networking event, delegates heard from five speakers representative of companies who had recently joined the Chamber alongside others whose membership was of more longstanding.

Speakers offered a number of special affirmations of the advantages of chamber membership highlighting the valuable support given by the ABCC in aiding the successful pursuit of their business projects and some beneficial

ABCC Activities contacts made directly through attending ABCC hosted events. Joining the ABCC “changed our business”, one executive told the audience.

Kicking off the presentations, Jennifer Fackelman, Director, London Office, Fragomen, introduced her firm’s Nomadic services which are designed to support short-term business travel with visa applications, advice and compliance.

She stressed the vital importance of not falling foul of local laws and told the meeting that Fragomen was able to assist businesses of all sizes.

Ms Fackelman explained that her company, which is a Platinum member, remained extremely active with the ABCC. The second speaker, Samiul Karim, UK Director, Trademark Group, said that he represented a global firm whose headquarters were in Australia. The company’s services were aimed at giving strategic support to firms that were engaged in international expansion. It was able to help companies to find the right people to work with in different overseas markets through its branch offices around the world, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE. He explained the real advantages of having a local presence.

Mr Karim indicated that Trademark took a special interest in developments within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia estimating that the value of ongoing infrastructure projects amounted to around $3.3 trillion.

He said that he had met clients by taking part in events organised by the ABCC. Finally, he informed the audience of a forthcoming international business event that Trademark was co-hosting in Riyadh named Saudi Anzuk, which would be taking place in October.

Third speaker, Mr Khalid Mahmood, a Chartered Financial Adviser with Unbiased Independent Financial Advisers Ltd, began by telling everyone of his 30 years career in the financial sector. He explained that his company was able to provide Shariah compliant pension and mortgage solutions to clients.

Mr Mahmood said that the firm’s activities extended to investment options, bonds and trusts, as well as the consolidation of pensions for clients, among other services.

Chef Maaref, founder of Maison-Chef Ltd, a catering firm specialising in Moroccan fine cuisine, thanked the ABCC for its support and for hosting the launch of his cookery book.

The book, Unveiling the Flavours: My Secret to Moroccan Cuisine, collects together an abundant selection of traditional dishes with a modern touch, reflecting the richness of the country’s food.

The Chef told delegates that each dish had its own story and finally announced

that his company was pleased to offer for a limited time a special deal on catering to other ABCC members.

In response, Mr El-Idrissi stressed the importance of hospitality in human relations, stating that sharing food was an ideal way to bring people together.

Final speaker, Ms Ekta Kapoor, Key Account Manager, Middle East, UK and Europe, Millennium Hotels & Resorts, took delegates in a brisk tour of the many luxury hotels and their services that were among her company’s brand in London.

Millennium possessed 18 hotels located in the UK, plus two in Paris and one in Rome, she said.

Exclusive suites were in particular high demand in central London, especially among Arab visitors during the summer months, Ms Kapoor explained, saying that most of these hotels were fully booked.

She argued that the luxury hotel market made a vital contribution to the UK economy.

Following a brief period of questions, the formal presentations culminated in the customary informal networking conversations held over drinks and refreshments in the boardroom and out on the terrace. The event was hugely appreciated by members, attendees and guests on what turned out to be a glorious summer’s evening.

Mr Abdeslam El-Idrissi, ABCC Deputy CEO & Secretary General

Ms Jennifer Fackelman, Director, London Office, Fragomen

Mr Samiul Karim, UK Director, Trademark Group

Mr Khalid Mahmood, a Chartered Financial Adviser with Unbiased Independent Financial Advisers Ltd

Chef Maaref, founder of Maison-Chef Ltd

Ms Ekta Kapoor, Key Account Manager, Middle East, UK and Europe, Millennium Hotels & Resorts

ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | 11

ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | 21

THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 (16:00 - 19:00) GMT+1 // LONDON

The Arab British Chamber of Commerce is delighted to announce that it will be hosting its Summer Reception on the evening of 7th August 2025.

The ABCC is delighted to announce that it will be hosting its Summer Reception. We hope you can join us for what promises to be an enjoyable networking afternoon when we will be joined by the Arab ambassadors, diplomats, ABCC members, and other distinguished guests.

The reception will be held at the ABCC premises commencing at 4:30 pm. Canapes and drinks will be served.

ntary Complime r access fo

ABCC Members

Please RSVP as soon as possible, as places are limited and will be issued on a first come first served basis.

Dress code Business attire

REGISTER https://abcc.glueup.com/event/145062/register/

ABCC Membership

ABCC New Members

We extend a welcome to our new members and look forward to working with them in the coming year.

IPI Consulting Ltd

HCR Law LLP - Gold

Resicare Alliance

EDALIA STUDIOS LTD - Gold

Gulf Glass Factory LLC (Gulf Glass)

Your Self Centre ltd

Privé Lifestyle Management Pear Tree Capital Ltd Wuthqa Professional Consulting Unbiased Independent Financial Advisers Ltd Q Apartments (UK) Ltd GOOD LAW INTERNATIONAL LTD

TepAlanfas Co - Gold Fares for Networks and Information Technology - Gold NAJM ALTHIMAR FOR IMPORTING FOODSTUFFS Gold Italian Trade Agency - London Office - Gold Maison-Chef Ltd

Zedra Trust Company (Jersey) Pinnacle Strategies Limited IIG Estates Limited - Gold Envoy Global United Kingdom Limited Pioneers Consulting Ltd Forsters LLP

IBISS & CO Limited

EXILLIUM DMCC

Sandstone Tax

Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA)

Radwa Food Co Ltd Platinum

Algerian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CACI) - Platinum

ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | ??

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ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | 17

Morocco Country Profile

MOROCCO

Country Name:

Kingdom of Morocco

Capital:

Rabat

Total area:

711,000 sq km

Borders:

3,523.5 km, with Algeria and Mauritania

Coastline:

2,945 km

Population:

38.4 million (UN data, 2025)

Large urban populations are clustered around the cities of Casablanca, Rabat, Fes, Tangier, Marrakech, and Agadir.

Currency:

Moroccan Dirham

GDP:

US$165.84 billion (2025)

GDP Growth:

3.2% (2025)

Natural resources:

phosphates, iron ore, manganese, lead, zinc, fish and salt

Agricultural produce:

wheat, milk, olives, sugar beets, potatoes, tomatoes, tangerines, oranges, apples and onions

Industries: automotive parts, phosphate mining and processing,

aerospace, food processing, leather goods, textiles,

construction, energy, renewables and international tourism.

Exports:

fertilizers, cars, garments, insulated wire, phosphoric acid

Imports: refined petroleum, wheat, natural gas, coal, vehicle parts/accessories Morocco is located in North Africa, bordering the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, and sharing its land borders with Algeria and Mauritania. Morocco is a

18 | ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

parliamentary constitutional monarchy divided into 12 administrative regions.

Morocco is a notable global tourism venue and able to satisfy diverse visitor expectations with traveller experiences ranging from the luxury end of the market to popular budget tourism and niche areas like ecotourism, heritage tours, cruises and health tourism.

In recent years, Morocco has ensured macroeconomic stability, reining in inflation and tripling GDP since the early 2000s. This has enabled its stable economy and proactive government to attract inward investors by ensuring confidence in the business environment amid global economic uncertainties.

The central bank, Bank Al-Maghrib, is committed to stability and remains extremely vigilant in monitoring economic conditions and inflationary pressures, winning the confidence of investors. The bank’s tight monetary policy has kept the country’s interest rates steady and inflation under control.

This policy achieves consistently good results.

Morocco has become a leading strategic regional hub for attracting investment throughout the continent of Africa. The city of Casablanca is an important regional financial centre while the industrial port complex of Tanger Med serves the region as one of the largest industrial ports in the world, and the largest in Africa.

Morocco has sought to disperse its inward investment around the country so that each of its regions can derive tangible benefits from increased prosperity and growth.

Numerous incentives and measures are available to attract and protect foreign investment. Morocco can boast a strong track record in delivering mega infrastructure projects and competitive industrial clusters over the past decade. A key asset in attracting investors is the country’s young, dynamic, competitive, and qualified workforce whose availability is an important “pull factor” that attracts companies seeking to set up business operations in the country.

Morocco Country Profile Key Attractions The World Bank has highlighted Morocco’s “strong capacity to respond effectively to shocks”, citing the management of the pandemic and the effective response to natural disasters like the 2023 earthquake.

Morocco has pursued an ambitious reform programme to help ensure that the country remains attractive to international investors.

A Mohamed VI investment fund and an investment charter aim to support a private sector-led, job-creating growth model for the country.

Governance reforms such as a new centralized ownership agency aim to make improvements to strategic management and performance in the state owned sector. Another major policy objective of Morocco is its efforts to strengthen human capital through delivering wider access to healthcare and social protection and better quality of education. Successful implementation of ongoing reforms are seen as crucial to Morocco achieving more robust and inclusive growth.

Morocco is fortunate in its visionary leadership of His Majesty the King Mohammed VI for the past 20 years during which Morocco has been successful in building a competitive economy that offers access to 1.3 billion consumers across Europe, the US, Africa, and the Middle East.

Investment is opened up by the free trade agreements that Morocco has agreed with more than 50 partner countries.

Morocco is noted for successes in boosting export-led sectors, like the rapid growth of its automotive industry, the growth of the Tanger Port as a leading regional and global logistical hub, and the transformation of the phosphate sector into a key provider of fertilizers for Africa.

Main Industries The country operates a diverse economy with key industrial sectors where there exist significant investment opportunities normally listed as automotive, aeronautics, textiles, agri-food, pharmaceuticals and outsourcing. A priority for Morocco is innovation and the country has become an attractive hub for applied engineering projects in particular. This is supported by a large pool of cutting edge researchers and graduates who provide a strong talent base. The country has established several national institutes devoted to research and development covering various specialist fields like green energy, biotechnology, micro-electronics, life sciences and healthcare among others.

Sustainability Sustainability is a priority of Morocco in the light of climate change and the commitment to meeting net zero targets. The Kingdom is successfully tapping its potential in renewables, in particular in solar power generation. The sector is open to foreign investors and Morocco has succeeded in positioning itself as a key partner in the drive to provide effective solutions in renewable energy that meet global needs. The country is viewed as a source of efficient low carbon production and offers lucrative opportunities for partnership and investment.

Economic Resilience In recent months, Morocco has demonstrated remarkable economic resilience thanks to a robust macroeconomic policy framework and proactive government response, in the view of the World Bank. The Moroccan

authorities have advanced key reforms for long-term development, such as expanding health insurance coverage, deploying a wide-ranging cash transfer programme, and implementing education reform to improve learning outcomes.

On the fiscal and economic side, the World Bank further observes, Morocco has been advancing a tax reform programme, reducing butane gas subsidies, and implementing reform of state-owned enterprises.

On climate adaptation and mitigation, Morocco is investing in infrastructure to address water scarcity and is committing to ambitious decarbonization targets.

Real GDP growth decelerated to 3.2 percent in 2024 from 3.4 percent in 2023 due to a 4.6 percent contraction in the agricultural sector amid the sixth consecutive year of drought.

Conversely, non-agricultural growth accelerated to 3.9 percent, driven by a revitalized industrial sector, particularly in phosphates and construction, which helped offset the slowdown in services.

Morocco’s external position remains strong, according to the World Bank. Despite fastgrowing imports resulting from the recovery of domestic demand, solid manufacturing exports, tourism inflows, and remittances kept the current account deficit at close to 1.2 percent of GDP in 2024, largely financed with FDI. International reserves cover five months of imports, and Morocco retains good access to international financial markets and multilateral credit. >>>

ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | 19

Morocco Country Profile CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19...

The latest figures from Morocco confirm these largely positive trends for the country’s economic outlook.

The Kingdom’s economy started 2025 on a positive note, with GDP growing significantly faster than in the previous year, according to data from the Moroccan High Commission for Planning (HCP), which was published towards the end of June 2025.

The economy expanded by 4.8% in the first quarter 2025, compared to just 3% during the same period in 2024, the HCP’s data shows. This strong performance came from both a recovery in agriculture and continued strength in the non-agricultural sectors. Higher domestic demand and lower inflation also supported economic growth, the data shows.

The data indicated that non-agricultural activities led economic growth, with their value increasing by 4.6%, up from 3.6% a year earlier, while the secondary sector performed particularly well, growing by 4.5% compared to 3.2% in the previous year, the HCP said. Construction and public works showed strongest gains, rising 6.3%, while the electricity and water sector grew by 5%, and manufacturing industries expanded by 3.4%.

Strategic Infrastructure Morocco has adopted ambitious development plans to invest in strategic industries such as the automotive and aerospace industries. The emergence of Tanger Med Port has helped transform Morocco by putting it at the centre of a technology intensive global value and supply chains and attracting inward investment that stimulates growth.

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Advanced infrastructure projects are helping to secure Morocco’s position as a key regional and international economic hub, in areas like maritime transport, rail and renewable energy.

Impressive infrastructure initiatives being developed with international partners include the high-speed rail line between Tangier and Casablanca, the first of its kind in Africa; the Tanger Med Port which is now one of the busiest and most advanced ports in the Mediterranean; and large-scale renewable energy facilities in Ouarzazate and other regions.

Some Notable Projects • Zenata Eco-City project: a sustainable urban development project near Casablanca.

• Strait of Gibraltar underwater railway tunnel project: a proposed link between Morocco and Spain.

• Noor Ouarzazate Solar Complex Project: the world’s largest concentrated solar power plant.

• Mohammed VI Tower project: a 250-meter skyscraper in Rabat.

• Casablanca to Marrakech, and Marrakech to Agadir high-speed rail lines project: an extension of the existing LGV line.

• Mohammed VI Tangier Tech City Project: a smart city and industrial park in northern Morocco.

• Tendrara Export Pipeline project: a gas pipeline connecting Morocco to Europe.

Renewable Energy Morocco has been taking the lead among African nations in the development of renewable energy sources and its ambition in this sector has been attracting the attentions of investors and international solar manufacturers. Global companies with a strong presence in Africa like Chinese solar manufacturer Trina Solar have come to regard Morocco as strategically important for meeting their growth plans.

Setting itself ambitious sustainable development goals, Morocco is on track to achieve 52% energy production through clean renewable sources by 2030. It is estimated that the country will need about $30 billion to achieve this goal.

Morocco already boasts huge solar projects such as Noor Midelt 1, 2, and 3 and Noor Ouarzazate. Meanwhile, Moroccan phosphate giant OCP has adopted a 2GW solar project to reduce its carbon footprint.

In addition, Morocco is investing in wind farms in places like Tarfaya, Tangier, and Essaouira, with the aim of reaching 2,000 megawatts of wind energy.

Morocco is also exploring green hydrogen as a potential major new energy source. Projects with international partners could enable Morocco to become a regional hub for clean energy exports.

UK-based geoscience firm Getech and transition energy company Sound Energy established a Moroccanregistered joint venture, HyMaroc Limited, to explore the potential of

Morocco Country Profile natural hydrogen and helium reserves in the country. Getech believes that Morocco’s unique geology makes it one of the most promising frontiers for native hydrogen. The country’s extensive onshore basins, coupled with its growing reputation as a renewable energy hub, position Morocco as a strategic player in the emerging natural hydrogen market, the company has stated.

Desalination Morocco is investing heavily in desalination projects as it seeks to address the frequent draughts that impact its important agricultural sector, which contributes some 12% to the national economy. Desalination is an option in particular for growing crops of high value such as tomatoes and orchard fruit.

Digital Innovation and AI Morocco has adopted a national strategy for the development of digital innovation and artificial intelligence. It aims to position the Kingdom as a regional technology hub.

Morocco’s Digital 2030 strategy was launched in September 2024 as a bold roadmap designed to position the Kingdom at the forefront of digital transformation.

The initiative marked a pivotal step towards integrating cutting-edge

technologies into public services, job creation, and economic growth. With its clear focus on innovation, the strategy seeks to leverage digital tools to enhance national competitiveness, create new employment opportunities, and improve access to public services.

The country is stepping up investment in innovative projects across agriculture, healthcare, education, and finance, to incorporate AI-driven solutions that will enhance economic performance and efficiency. By forming strategic partnerships, Morocco aspires to become a hub for AI in Africa. Morocco’s ambitious plans were outlined at the country’s first National AI Summit that took place in Rabat in July 2025. The summit heard that AI offered tremendous potential as a driver for sustainable development and that AI technology can be harnessed to work for the common good.

AI initiatives adopted by Morocco include smart agriculture using technology for soil analysis, detecting crop diseases and improving farm efficiency. In the health sector, Morocco is making use of AI systems in hospitals to improve medical diagnostics, while in education digital platforms are introducing machine learning to widen access to teaching and learning processes. Smart City projects in urban centres like Benguérir and Casablanca seek to integrate AI into infrastructure management, transport and energy systems.

UK and Morocco The UK and Morocco enjoy a strong partnership with centuries of cooperation behind them. In recent

years the UK has taken a closer interest in the untapped opportunities that exist, and successive governments have been keen to encourage British investors to take up these opportunities and share in Morocco’s success story.

UK export agency, UK Export Finance (UKEF), has established a £4.5 billion facility to support new business across Morocco, identifying opportunities for UK business in such sectors like rail, water desalination and infrastructure.

Recent partnerships have been forged in higher education, pharmaceuticals and financial services, for example.

One clear indication of the growth in UK-Moroccan engagement can be established by looking at the trade figures that reveal a clear upward trend, as reported on in an accompanying editorial within these pages.

With a new government in the UK committed to boosting growth, investors can anticipate improved prospects for closer cooperation building on the UK-Morocco Association Agreement and their Strategic Dialogue.

UK firms looking to invest in Morocco or to set up business operations in the country are able to consult the Moroccan Agency for the Development of Investments and Exports (AMDIE), a public agency set up in 2017 to support investors and promote inward investment.

https://amdie.gov.ma/nouveaumodele-de-developpement/

ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | 21

Digital Economy and Innovation

Morocco’s Digital Economy and Innovation: A New Frontier for UK and Arab Investors Morocco is emerging as a digital innovation hub, driven by the Maroc Digital 2030 strategy, thriving tech hubs, and growth in fintech, AI, and digital services. This article explores why UK and Arab investors should take notice.

Strategic Vision: Maroc Digital 2030 Morocco is accelerating its digital transformation through the ambitious Maroc Digital 2030 strategy, establishing itself as a North African leader in innovation, digital services, and advanced technologies. This national agenda aims to create 240,000 digital jobs and incubate 3,000 startups by 2030, positioning the kingdom as a tech gateway between Europe and Africa.

The strategy targets key areas including fintech, artificial intelligence (AI), and infrastructure. It aims to deliver 5G to 70% of the population and extend fibre broadband to millions of homes.

With over 300 digital public services already available and a unified digital portal under development, Morocco is working toward a top-50 global e-government ranking.

Public investment exceeding $1 billion backs Maroc Digital 2030, funding FabLabs, innovation centres, and training programmes. One initiative 22 | ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

offers 550 doctoral scholarships in digital fields. The outsourcing sector, another pillar, is seeing growth with ambitions to lead in IT and business process services across Africa.

Innovation Hubs and Startup Ecosystem Morocco’s digital ecosystem thrives in tech hubs like Technopark, established in Casablanca and expanded to Rabat, Tangier, Agadir, and beyond. These hubs have supported over 3,500 businesses and created more than 15,000 jobs.

Plans are underway to establish similar centres in Fez, Tiznit, and Oujda.

The startup scene is gaining traction, fuelled by Innov Invest and tax incentives. In 2022, fintech startup Chari reached a $100 million valuation. In 2024, Morocco captured 75% of all tech investment in North Africa. International accelerators such as Plug and Play are partnering with Technopark to boost global connectivity and investment.

Fintech: Expanding Financial Access Fintech is a standout sector. Digital payments and mobile money are now widespread, with firms like Inwi Money and major banks embracing e-wallets and mobile banking. The central bank supports innovation via regulatory sandboxes and updated policies.

Casablanca-based HPS (Hightech Payment Systems), operating in over 95 countries, exemplifies local fintech success.

AI and Cloud Infrastructure AI and cloud computing are also advancing. South Korea’s Naver is developing a 500 MW AI data centre in Morocco, with support from Nvidia and UK-based Lloyds Capital. The centre will use Moroccan renewable energy and provide high-performance computing for Europe and Africa. Meanwhile, Oracle is investing $140 million in two new Moroccan cloud regions, and IBM, Microsoft, and Dell continue to expand local operations.

Digital Economy and Innovation

Digital Public Services and New Market Opportunities Digitisation of public services has transformed how Moroccans engage with the state. Biometric IDs, online business registration, and e-tax portals have streamlined interactions and cut bureaucracy. Opportunities are emerging in healthtech, edtech, and smart cities, especially as Morocco prepares for 5G and integrates IoT solutions.

International Partnerships Driving Growth International partnerships are central to Morocco’s digital success.

Bilateral trade with the UK exceeds £4 billion annually. Recent visits and agreements have deepened collaboration in tech, green energy, and infrastructure. Arab countries are also key partners. Morocco joined the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) alongside Saudi Arabia and the UAE, supporting joint digital economy projects.

Dubai’s GITEX Africa, now hosted annually in Marrakech, has become a

flagship event, attracting over 1,450 exhibitors and 350 global investors.

Supported by Morocco’s Digital Development Agency, the event positions the country as Africa’s digital innovation hub.

A Platform for Future Investment Morocco’s regulatory reforms are ongoing, with improved cybersecurity and data protection aligning with global standards. Its workforce, infrastructure, and strategic location near Europe make it an ideal base for regional expansion. For UK and Arab investors, Morocco offers opportunities across ICT, AI, fintech, and cloud services, underpinned by political stability and a clear vision for the future.

References (Live Links)

Technopark Overview https://www.wearetech.africa/en/fils-uk/ news/business/morocco-technoparkmoroccos-first-technology-businessincubator Plug and Play Accelerator https://www.wearetech.africa/en/fils-uk/ news/business/morocco-plug-and-playto-support-moroccan-startups-through-adigital-incubator Fintech Growth https://thefintechtimes.com/the-rise-offintech-in-morocco/ HPS Fintech Expansion https://www.reuters.com/technology/ moroccos-hps-plans-fintech-acquisitionbefore-2027-ceo-2024-04-14/ Naver AI Data Centre https://www.wearetech.africa/en/fils-uk/ news/business/south-koreas-naver-to-buildai-data-center-in-morocco GITEX Africa Marrakech https://african.business/2025/05/technologyinformation/gitex-africa-moroccos-thirdedition-opens-in-marrakech/

Maroc Digital 2030 Strategy https://samenacouncil.org/samena_daily_ news?news=98898

UK-Morocco Trade Ties https://www.gov.uk/government/news/ new-uk-moroccan-partnerships-to-grow-ukeconomy

Morocco Digitalisation Plan https://www.agencianova.com/en/news/ morocco-presents-its-digital-strategy-2030/

Oracle Cloud Investment https://www.trade.gov/country-commercialguides/morocco-digital-economy

ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | 23

Renewable Energy

Morocco’s Renewable Energy R Leading in Solar, Wind and Green Hydrogen

Morocco is emerging as a renewable energy powerhouse with ambitious solar farms, wind parks and a pioneering green hydrogen plan – all backed by government strategy, major players like MASEN and OCP, and a pro-investment vision driving sustainable development.

A Green Vision Backed by Government Strategy Morocco has transformed itself from a heavy energy importer into a regional leader in renewable energy and sustainable development. The government launched a bold National Energy Strategy in 2008 to cut reliance on imported fossil fuels and harness the kingdom’s abundant sun and wind.

Clear targets were set – Morocco aimed for 42% of its electricity capacity to come from renewables by 2020 and 52% by 2030, shared equally across solar, wind and hydro. Highlevel political commitment and policy reforms underpinned this vision: the state phased out gasoline and diesel subsidies in 2014–15 and opened large renewable projects to foreign investors. As a result, Morocco’s renewable share has already climbed from around 20% a decade ago to about 45% today, on track to hit the 52% goal by 2030.

This strategic push is driven by both economic and environmental imperatives. Morocco lacks domestic oil and gas reserves – in 2022, a full 90% of its energy needs were met by imported fossil fuels. Developing 24 | ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

clean energy is crucial for energy security and to shield the economy from volatile fuel prices. At the same time, Morocco has embraced its climate responsibilities. It was one of only a few countries rated “sufficient” in Climate Action Tracker assessments towards the Paris goals. and it climbed to 8th place globally in the 2025 Climate Change Performance Index, the highest in Africa and the Arab world. This reflects Morocco’s climate-forward policies, including the renewables drive and a commitment to cut emissions through green growth.

Institutionally, Morocco created the Moroccan Agency for Sustainable Energy (MASEN) to implement its renewable strategy. MASEN – a publicprivate entity – oversees flagship solar and wind projects, ensuring they deliver local development benefits and attract international finance. Backed by strong government support and international climate funds, an estimated $37 billion has been invested in Morocco’s clean energy programme so far .The stage was set for Morocco to turn ambitious plans into reality through a series of groundbreaking projects.

Flagship Projects: Harnessing the Sun and Wind Morocco’s solar megaprojects have catapulted the country into the global spotlight. At the heart of this is the Noor Ouarzazate solar complex, a vast array of mirrors and panels in the Sahara fringe that is currently the world’s largest concentrated solar power installation. Developed by MASEN and international partners, the Noor complex already provides some 580 MW capacity – enough to power over one million Moroccans – and can even supply energy after dark thanks to thermal storage. It symbolizes Morocco’s resolve to leverage its 3,000 hours of sunshine a year for clean power. Other solar farms across Morocco, from the Atlas foothills to arid plains, are rapidly adding photovoltaic capacity as the country aims for 4 GW of solar by 2030.

Complementing solar, wind energy is a pillar of Morocco’s renewables drive.

Consistent Atlantic trade winds and mountain gusts give Morocco some of Africa’s best wind resources. The 2010 Integrated Wind Program set out to install 1 GW of wind by 2024 and 4.2

Renewable Energy

y Revolution:

GW by 2030. Flagship projects include the Tarfaya wind farm on the southern coast – a 301 MW array of 131 turbines, one of the largest wind farms in Africa. Tarfaya’s turbines, co-owned by Morocco’s Nareva and France’s Engie, churn out clean electricity and prevent about 800,000 tons of CO₂ emissions per year. New wind parks have risen in Tangier, Essaouira, and Midelt, bringing Morocco’s total wind capacity to over 1.5 GW. By the end of 2021, renewables accounted for roughly 37% of Morocco’s installed power capacity (with wind ~13% and solar ~8%) – a remarkable leap driven by these projects.

Morocco’s geographic position also gives it an edge. It is the only African country physically linked to Europe’s power grid via undersea cables to Spain. This opens the door for green power exports. In fact, an ambitious venture called the Xlinks Morocco– UK Power Project is in the works to transmit Moroccan solar and wind energy directly to Britain. Xlinks plans to build 10.5 GW of renewable generation in Morocco’s deserts and send 3.6 GW of clean electricity to the UK through 3,800 km of subsea HVDC cables. Once operational by 2030, it could supply up to 8% of the UK’s electricity demand with low-cost Moroccan green power. This first-ofits-kind project underlines Morocco’s emergence as a regional renewable energy hub and a reliable partner for Europe’s energy transition.

Pioneering the Green Hydrogen Economy The next frontier of Morocco’s green strategy is green hydrogen, and the country is moving fast to lead in this nascent industry. In March 2025, the government approved an enormous package of green hydrogen projects worth 319 billion dirhams (≈$32.5 billion) to produce green ammonia, green steel and other e-fuels. These projects will tap Morocco’s surplus solar and wind power to electrolyse water, creating hydrogen fuel that can be used domestically and exported. The program has attracted a who’s-who of international partners: U.S.-based Ortus, Spain’s Acciona, Germany’s Nordex and others are slated to develop green ammonia facilities. The UAE’s TAQA and Morocco’s own Nareva will collaborate on hydrogen-based fuels, while Saudi Arabia’s ACWA Power (already a key investor in Moroccan solar) is set to build a green steel project.

In total, Morocco is offering up to 30,000 hectares of land per project to realize this green hydrogen vision – a measure of the country’s commitment and available space for renewables expansion.

Crucially, Morocco’s green hydrogen push aligns with international demand.

The European Union’s Green Deal calls for importing 10 million tons of renewable hydrogen by 2030, and Morocco sees a prime opportunity to supply this market. The government earmarked 300,000 hectares of desert

land in 2024 for integrated renewable complexes that will generate electricity and convert it into green ammonia, methanol and other synthetic fuels.

Major deals are already in motion – France’s TotalEnergies signed on to develop large-scale hydrogen projects, and French utility Engie partnered with Morocco’s phosphate giant OCP Group to use green hydrogen for producing ammonia fertiliser. OCP, one of Morocco’s biggest companies, is investing heavily in green ammonia to decarbonise its fertilizer production, including a joint venture with Australia’s Fortescue and plans to produce millions of tons of green ammonia by 2030.

With its abundant renewable resources and proximity to Europe, Morocco aims to position itself as a global green hydrogen hub – exporting clean fuels and boosting its own industrial decarbonisation.

Sustainable Development and Investment Opportunities Morocco’s renewable energy leadership is as much an economic story as an environmental one. The kingdom’s stable pro-investment policies, public-private partnerships, and forward-looking planning have created an appealing climate for clean energy investment.

International financiers like the World Bank, European Investment Bank and Green Climate Fund have poured capital into Moroccan projects, de-risked by strong government guarantees. >>> ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | 25

Renewable Energy

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Today Morocco stands out in Africa for its combination of political will, resource potential and investorfriendly approach. Ernst & Young’s latest Renewable Energy Country Attractiveness Index ranked Morocco among the world’s top markets for renewable investment attractiveness.

Likewise, Morocco’s robust policies earned it a reputation as a regional exemplar in sustainable development, evidenced by its top-10 global ranking in the Climate Performance Index and recognition for renewable energy progress.

Key domestic players are also driving and benefiting from the green transition. MASEN, as the central agency, ensures that each project fosters local job creation and industrial integration. Home-grown companies like Nareva have partnered with foreign firms to build wind farms, while OCP Group, the phosphate powerhouse, is channeling a $12 billion investment program (2023–2027) into renewablepowered fertilizer production and green hydrogen ventures. These efforts tie into Morocco’s broader sustainable development goals – from rural electrification (now nearly 100% thanks in part to solar home systems) to water security (new desalination plants will be powered by renewables to address chronic water scarcity). Every solar park and wind farm contributes to socioeconomic progress by bringing infrastructure, jobs, and training to different regions, reinforcing Morocco’s development in a green and inclusive way.

For international investors and businesses, Morocco’s green energy sector offers wide-ranging opportunities. Utility-scale solar and wind installations under competitive tender, public-private partnerships 26 | ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

in emerging technologies like hydrogen, and manufacturing or knowledge transfer initiatives are all on the rise. The country’s strategic location – at the crossroads of Europe, Africa and the Middle East – and its strong trade ties (including a free trade agreement with the EU) make it an ideal base for exporting green electricity or fuels to powerhungry markets. As countries worldwide race to decarbonise, Morocco has cemented itself as a proactive partner where capital and innovation in clean energy can yield tangible results.

References:

Outlook: Powering Prosperity with Clean Energy Morocco’s leadership in renewable energy and green hydrogen is shaping a new narrative for Africa and the Arab world. By coupling a long-term vision with concrete projects, the country has shown that an emerging economy can pursue growth and sustainability hand in hand. From the mirrored expanses of Noor Ouarzazate to the wind-swept turbines of Tarfaya and the hydrogen plants on the horizon, Morocco is building an energy ecosystem fit for the future. Investors see a stable, well-regulated market with strong government backing and high returns in both energy output and environmental impact. For Morocco, the payoff is multi-fold: greater energy independence, industrial modernization, and a leading role in the global green economy. In the years ahead, the kingdom’s sunny skies and windy coasts look set not only to light up its own cities and villages, but also to power new partnerships across continents – a testament to Morocco’s vision of sustainable prosperity.

Reuters – reporting on government committee approval of green hydrogen projects worth 319 bn dirhams https://www.reuters.com/sustainability/ sustainable-finance-reporting/moroccoapproves-green-hydrogen-projects-worth325-bln-2025-03-06/ yieh.com+5reuters. com+5marketscreener.com+5

Morocco’s National Energy and Energy Efficiency Plan – targets 42 % renewables by 2020, rising to 52 % by 2030; outlines removal of fossil‑fuel subsidies and opening to foreign investors https://www.sdg16.plus/policies/moroccosnational-energy-and-energy-efficiency-plan/ reuters.com+2sdg16.plus+2masen.ma+2 MASEN Brochure – confirms Morocco’s increase in renewable share to 52 % by 2030 under the Noor Programme https://www.masen.ma/sites/default/files/ inline-files/MASEN_Brochure_instit_EN_finale.pdf masen.ma+2masen.ma+2en.wikipedia.org+2 African Energy Portal – Morocco approves 319 bn dirhams (~US $32.5 bn) in green hydrogen projects with major global partners https://africanenergycouncil.org/moroccoapproves-32-5b-green-hydrogen-projects/ sciencedirect.com+15africanenergycouncil. org+15marketscreener.com+15

IEA PVPS – confirms national target of 52 % renewable electricity by 2030 https://iea-pvps.org/about-iea-pvps/members/ morocco-2/ yieh.com+12iea-pvps.org+12meed. com+12 Wikipedia (Ouarzazate Solar Power Station) – verifiable details on capacity (510 MW CSP + 72 MW PV = 582 MW), cost (~US $9 bn), commissioning stages https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ouarzazate_Solar_ Power_Station en.wikipedia.org+2en.wikipedia. org+2en.wikipedia.org+2 Wikipedia (Renewable energy in Morocco) – renewable share, targets, and commentary on investment/progress https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Renewable_ energy_in_Morocco en.wikipedia.org Climate Action Tracker: Morocco – describes 2030 target (52 %) and long-term ambition for 80 % renewables by 2050 https://climateactiontracker.org/countries/ morocco/policies-action/ climateactiontracker.org Renewables Now – notes Moroccan government greenlighting green hydrogen proposals totaling ~32.7 bn USD (319 bn dirhams) https://renewablesnow.com/news/moroccogreenlights-usd-32-7bn-of-green-hydrogenproposals-1271922/ reuters.com+9renewablesnow. com+9marketscreener.com+9

ABCC

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For all your translations from English to Arabic or Arabic to English.

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However, we strongly advise clients that the FCDO should authenticate all official documentation translated from Arabic to English if it is to be used in the UK. Translation of official documents from English to Arabic, for use in the Arab world, must be authenticated by both the FCO and the Arab embassy of the country where the document is to be used.

The ABCC translation service covers all types of documents, including: Birth/marriage/baptism/divorce/death certificates Certificates of academic qualification Certificates of Origin Commercial invoices Company/personal financial documents Divorce documents from the Shar’i Mazun or from a court of law Memorandum & Articles of Association Passport details.

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Transport

Morocco’s Transport Transformation:

High-Speed Rail, Smart Ports and New Horizons for UK Trade Morocco is rapidly modernising its transport and infrastructure – from Africa’s first highspeed rail and world-class ports to smart cities and logistics hubs – unlocking sustainable development and new trade opportunities with the UK. Accelerating Infrastructure Development in Morocco Morocco has embarked on an ambitious infrastructure upgrade that is driving economic growth and positioning the kingdom as a North African transport and logistics hub. Major investments in highspeed rail, expanded port capacity, and smart city initiatives are interconnecting key economic centers and improving links to global markets. Over the past two decades, Morocco spent an average of 40 billion dirhams (~$4.2 billion) annually on transport and logistics – about 10% of its total investment – reflecting the government’s strong commitment to modernising infrastructure. These upgrades not only boost sectors like agriculture, manufacturing and tourism, but also create a dynamic environment for foreign investors, including British businesses seeking new opportunities.

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High-Speed Rail Revolution: Al Boraq and Beyond A flagship project in Morocco’s infrastructure drive is Al Boraq, the first high-speed rail service in Africa.

Launched in 2018, the Al Boraq line links the major cities of Tangier, Kenitra, Rabat, and Casablanca, slashing journey times from Tangier to Casablanca from nearly 6 hours to just over 2 hours.

The 323 km double-decker TGV train, built with French partnership, reaches speeds up to 320 km/h and can carry ~500 passengers, heralding a new era of fast, efficient travel. This highspeed rail not only improves mobility for Moroccans, but also enhances connectivity for industry – for example, specially designed freight wagons now transport up to 200,000 vehicles per year from PSA’s automotive plant in Kenitra directly to the Tanger Med port

streamlining export logistics.

Crucially, Al Boraq is just the first phase of a broader vision. The state-owned rail company (ONCF) has a 2040 Rail Strategy that calls for 1,500 km of highspeed lines by 2035 and nearly doubling the number of cities served .Plans are already under way to extend the high-speed line south from Casablanca to Marrakech, and eventually to Agadir, integrating Morocco’s southern regions into the network. By 2030 the country envisions a 1,500 km highspeed network alongside 2,700 km of upgraded conventional lines. Such rail expansions promise faster freight and passenger links between Morocco’s most advanced cities, reinforcing hubs like Casablanca (the commercial capital) and Tangier (the northern gateway) as pillars of a modern, connected economy. They also contribute to

Transport

sustainability – electric high-speed trains reduce highway congestion and cut carbon emissions, aligning with Morocco’s climate goals.

Ports and Logistics: World-Class Capacity on Two Coasts Hand-in-hand with rail development, Morocco has heavily invested in port infrastructure and logistics hubs, aiming to transform into a regional trade nexus.

Under the National Ports Strategy 2030 – a strategic plan drawn up in 2012 – Morocco is dedicating around $7.5 billion to expand and upgrade port facilities along both its Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts. The country already operates 27 commercial ports handling over 92 million tonnes of goods annually. Chief among them is Tanger Med, the ultra-modern container port near Tangier, which has quickly become the busiest port in Africa and the entire Mediterranean region. After recent expansions, Tanger Med’s capacity reached ~9 million TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units) and it handled a record 8.6 million TEU in 2023 – making it the first African port to break into the world’s top 20 by container throughput In 2024, Tanger Med surpassed 10 million containers handled, firmly cementing Morocco’s status as a global logistics player. By surpassing established European hubs like Algeciras, the port is attracting greater investment and manufacturing activity to northern Morocco. Notably, the port’s integrated free zones have drawn major auto industry players – Renault-Nissan and Stellantis (Peugeot) – whose factories export vehicles via Tanger Med, leveraging its proximity to European markets.

Importantly, Morocco’s port strategy isn’t limited to Tangier. The government is developing new Atlantic ports, such as the Nador West Med in the northeast and Dakhla Atlantic in the far south, to ensure balanced regional growth. The planned Dakhla Atlantic Port, for instance, will be a deep-water port positioning Morocco as “Africa’s new gateway to the ocean” and a key hub for West African trade. Expected by 2029, Dakhla Atlantic will handle a wide variety of cargo and even serve as a main gateway for transporting green energy products – offering “sustainable refueling options” to ships along transatlantic routes. These investments reflect a clear vision: to strengthen trade links with Europe, Africa, and the Americas, and to integrate Morocco more deeply into global supply chains.

To maximise efficiency, Morocco has also digitalised its trade logistics through systems like PortNet, a onestop electronic platform connecting shipping lines, port authorities, customs, and traders. Such innovations speed up cargo clearances and improve transparency, enhancing the competitiveness of Moroccan ports.

Coupled with new logistics zones (dry ports and warehousing clusters around Casablanca, Marrakech, Fez, and Tangier), these measures are streamlining the flow of goods internally and across borders. As a result, logistics costs have been gradually falling, and Morocco rose on the World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index, outpacing several peers in the region. All this bodes well for foreign companies relying on timely shipments, and presents opportunities for partners with expertise in smart logistics and green port technologies.

Smart Cities and Sustainable Urban Development Beyond transport nodes, Morocco is pushing to upgrade its cities into “smart” urban centers that harness digital innovation for sustainability and quality of life. The focus is especially on its most advanced metropolitan areas – Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier, and emerging hubs like Kenitra – which are experiencing rapid growth and urbanisation. For example, Casablanca, Morocco’s economic capital (population ~4 million), has launched a multi-year Smart City program (“WeCasablanca”) to integrate technology into urban governance and services. Each year Casablanca hosts a Smart City Expo that brings together global experts and start-ups to share solutions in e-governance, open data, intelligent transport, and energy efficiency. The 2024 edition of Smart City Casablanca (the 8th annual forum) highlighted themes like digital citizen services, urban data for smart monitoring, and AI-driven management of city resources. This initiative has cultivated local tech entrepreneurship – with hackathons and innovation labs yielding smart city startups that propose solutions for traffic management, waste collection, and public safety.

By embracing public-private collaboration, Casablanca is positioning itself as a model “smart metropolis” in Africa, where mobile apps can tell commuters when the next tram arrives and IoT sensors can optimize water and electricity use.

Morocco’s capital Rabat is also leveraging technology to enhance livability. >>>

ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | 29

Transport CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29...

The Rabat metropolitan area (which includes Salé and Témara) introduced one of Africa’s first modern tramway systems and is rolling out cashless payment and GPS tracking for buses. City officials are working with international partners (like the World Bank and OECD) to implement data-driven urban planning and resilient infrastructure standards.

Rabat’s growth has necessitated innovative solutions – daily passenger movements are projected to reach 1.94 million by 2024, prompting efforts to expand public transit and smart traffic management. Meanwhile, Tangier – long known for its strategic port – is undergoing a high-tech metamorphosis.

In 2017 King Mohammed VI launched the Mohammed VI Tangier Tech City, a planned smart city and industrial zone spanning 2,000 hectares on Tangier’s outskirts. Backed by a Chinese consortium, this $1 billion project aims to host up to 200 Chinese and multinational companies in sectors like automotive, aerospace, electronics, and textiles. The vision is to create a connected “industrial metropolis” with integrated residential and commercial districts, all built on smart city principles. Tangier Tech City is expected to generate 100,000 jobs and strengthen Morocco’s position as a manufacturing hub at the gateway to Europe. Although initial phases have been slower than anticipated, construction is under way and several factories have opened, indicating progress toward making Tangier a Silicon-Valley-meets-Shenzhen of North Africa.

These smart city efforts coincide with Morocco’s commitment to sustainability in urban planning.

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Authorities are keenly aware of challenges like water stress, land scarcity, and climate change impacts.

Through its National Sustainable Development Strategy (SNDD) 2030 (adopted in 2017), Morocco is guiding public investments toward green and inclusive outcomes. For instance, new city projects incorporate solar-powered street lighting, energy-efficient buildings, and green spaces for climate resilience. The government is also encouraging “smart” solutions to reduce pollution – such as electric buses (piloted in Marrakech and Agadir) and wasteto-energy initiatives. These measures align with Morocco’s international commitments under the UN Sustainable Development Goals and its reputation as a regional leader in renewable energy (the country aims to source over 52% of its electricity from renewables by 2030). From eco-friendly port operations (Tanger Med Port now runs on 100% green electricity to smart irrigation systems in farming, digital innovation is woven into Morocco’s infrastructure planning.

Government Programmes Driving Growth Morocco’s infrastructure leap is not happenstance – it is underpinned by bold government strategies and reforms. A cornerstone is the National Ports Strategy 2030, which, as noted, allocates billions to expand port capacity and modernise maritime trade. This long-term plan, led by the National Ports Agency (ANP), has prioritized projects like Tanger Med’s expansion, the new Nador West Med

port, and upgrades at Casablanca Port (the historic port is being revamped to focus on domestic trade and tourism cruises as heavy container traffic shifts to other hubs). By anticipating future trade volumes and ship sizes, the 2030 port strategy aims to ensure Morocco can seize emerging opportunities in global shipping.

In the agricultural realm, the Plan Maroc Vert (“Green Morocco Plan”) launched in 2008 was a decade-long national programme that modernised Morocco’s vital agriculture sector.

While not directly a transport policy, Plan Maroc Vert catalysed rural infrastructure improvements – from new irrigation systems and farm roads to the creation of agro-logistic hubs. Under this plan, Morocco invested over MAD 100 billion (≈ £8 billion) in agriculture by 2018, with 60% coming from the private sector, and established agropoles (agribusiness clusters) to connect farmers with processing facilities and markets. These integrated zones bring together growers, food processing factories, logistics services, and storage, thereby improving the supply chain for exports like citrus, olives, and vegetables. Although implementation faced challenges (only four out of six planned agropoles were operational by 2019).the concept has laid groundwork for better farm-toport connectivity. Plan Maroc Vert’s successor, the “Green Generation 2020–2030” strategy, continues this push, emphasizing sustainability and youth in agriculture – which in turn will demand further improvements in transport and storage networks for agricultural goods.

Parallel to sectoral plans, Morocco’s National Sustainable Development Strategy 2030 provides an overarching framework ensuring that growth initiatives align with environmental and social objectives.

The SNDD promotes a “green and inclusive economy” and calls for exemplary governance in projects..

This means new highways, railways or industrial zones must undergo rigorous impact assessments and incorporate mitigation measures (e.g. reforestation if land is used, or noise reduction for high-speed trains in residential areas). The strategy also encourages digital governance tools – for example, Morocco is developing digital dashboards to monitor progress on sustainable development indicators across regions. By embedding sustainability from the policy level down to project execution, the government ensures that infrastructure development does not come at the cost of environmental degradation, and that it benefits a broad segment of the population.

Finally, Morocco’s pro-business reforms and stability have been key to attracting foreign investment into infrastructure. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are increasingly used to fund large projects (a 2015 law expanded PPPs, resulting in dozens of projects from highways to desalination plants being cofinanced by private firms. The result is that global companies – including British engineering consultants, Gulf sovereign funds, Chinese construction firms, and European development banks – are actively participating in Morocco’s development story. These

collaborations bring not just capital but also knowledge transfer, helping Morocco build infrastructure to international standards.

UK-Morocco Trade and Investment Opportunities The rapid development of Morocco’s infrastructure is opening significant opportunities for British businesses and investors, especially as the UK deepens ties with Morocco post-Brexit. The two countries signed an Association Agreement in 2019 (in force since 2021) that mirrors EU-Morocco trade terms and provides a stable framework for bilateral commerce. Trade between the UK and Morocco has been growing, reaching £4.2 billion in 2024 (a £600 million increase from 2023). Morocco is now the UK’s 51st largest trading partner, and the UK government has signaled it sees “Morocco as an increasingly important trade and investment partner”. In early 2025 the UK appointed a Trade Envoy to Morocco and sent trade missions to explore projects underscoring the high level of interest in Morocco’s booming infrastructure sector.

One major catalyst for UK-Morocco cooperation is Morocco’s role as co-host (with Spain and Portugal) of the 2030 FIFA World Cup. In June 2025, Britain’s Foreign Secretary David Lammy visited Rabat to forge new business partnerships and announced that British companies will be “front of the queue” to build Moroccan infrastructure for the 2030 World Cup. UK firms have a strong track record in delivering large-scale sporting infrastructure globally, and this deal positions them to win contracts for stadium

construction, transport facilities, and urban upgrades in host cities like Casablanca, Marrakech, and Rabat. The Moroccan government estimates around £33 billion of public procurement opportunities in infrastructure over the next three years, spanning not just World Cup projects but also airports, roads, water treatment and more. Notably, a £1.2 billion project to expand Casablanca’s Mohammed V Airport (part of Morocco’s “Airports 2030” program) is one such opportunity where UK engineering and architecture services are expected to contribute.

Additionally, the UK has signed cooperation agreements with Morocco in critical sectors that dovetail with infrastructure development. A recent MoU on ports and maritime logistics (worth up to £200 million) will promote UK expertise in port management, smart logistics systems, and green tech for harbors. This could see British firms providing state-of-the-art traffic management software for Moroccan ports or eco-friendly solutions like shore power hookups (so ships can use electricity at berths instead of diesel). Another agreement on water infrastructure opens doors for UK companies in areas such as desalination plants, wastewater treatment and sustainable irrigation – fields where UK technology is highly regarded. With Morocco investing in mega-projects like the world’s largest seawater desalination plant in Agadir and new dams nationwide, British engineering consultancies and equipment suppliers have strong prospects.

It’s also worth noting the synergy between Morocco’s industrial ambitions and UK capabilities. >>>

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Transport CONTINUED FROM PAGE 31...

For example, Morocco’s growing automotive industry (now the largest in Africa) and aerospace cluster in Casablanca require advanced components, machinery, and training – niches where British manufacturers and educators can collaborate.

UK-based companies can invest in Morocco’s free zones (which offer tax incentives and logistics advantages) to set up manufacturing or distribution hubs targeting African and European markets. The Casablanca Finance City initiative even provides a regional financial platform that UK service firms (banks, insurers, law firms) can use to finance infrastructure projects across Africa, with Morocco as a base.

A Sustainable, Digital Future – and a Partnership Pathway Morocco’s transport and infrastructure development journey illustrates how visionary public planning, executed with an eye on sustainability and smart technology, can rapidly elevate a nation’s economic landscape.

From the bullet trains of Al Boraq to the sprawling docks of Tanger Med, and from futuristic smart cities to vast agro-industrial zones, Morocco is building for the future.

The emphasis on green growth and digital innovation ensures this growth is resilient and future-proof – a fact that will appeal to ESG-conscious investors.

Crucially, Morocco’s stability, proinvestment climate, and strategic location just 14 km from Europe make it an attractive gateway for UK businesses. English is increasingly spoken in business circles alongside French and Arabic, and the Arab British Chamber of Commerce and Morocco’s Investment and Export Agency (AMDIE) are actively facilitating B2B contacts. The Kingdom’s solid logistics – modern ports, rail, roads, and ICT networks – means investors can build supply chains with confidence. As Douglas Alexander (UK Minister for Trade Policy) noted, “stronger ties with economies like Morocco will pave the way for new opportunities, supporting British businesses and creating jobs”.

In short, Morocco’s infrastructure boom is not a zero-sum local story; it is creating a platform from which international partners can profit and expand.

For British businesses, these trends present a compelling invitation. The UK and Morocco enjoy warm relations and a complementary skill set that can turn ambition into tangible projects.

Whether it’s a UK firm helping design a carbon-neutral port terminal in Dakhla, a British contractor supplying control systems for Morocco’s next high-speed rail extension, or a joint venture deploying AI traffic sensors in Casablanca – the possibilities are abundant. With high-level agreements in place and Morocco actively courting foreign expertise, UK investors can enter an emerging market that is both investor-friendly and primed for strong growth. In the spirit of a true win-win partnership, Morocco’s infrastructure leap can be a springboard for UKMorocco trade ties to reach new heights in the coming decade, delivering mutual prosperity and reinforcing the historic bonds between both kingdoms.

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References Politika: Dakhla Atlantic Port, Africa’s New Gateway to the Ocean Live article (Assahifa): https://www.assahifa.com/english/morocco/ politika-dakhla-atlantic-port-africas-newgateway-to-the-ocean/ youtube.com+8assahifa. com+8assahifa.com+8 Upgrades to Morocco’s transport and logistics infrastructure set to drive economic growth (Oxford Business Group – full report access): https://oxfordbusinessgroup.com/ reports/morocco/2020-report/economy/ expansion-plans-investments-aimed-atincreasing-connectivity-between-majorcities-are-set-to-boost-the-sector-andthe-economy businessfocusmagazine. com+3oxfordbusinessgroup.com+3morocconow. com+3 Morocco invests in urban transit solutions, highspeed rail and road development (Oxford Business Group, 2019): https://oxfordbusinessgroup.com/reports/ morocco/2019-report/economy/goingplaces-investment-in-urban-transit-solutionshigh-speed-rail-and-road-developmentto-buoy-growth businessfocusmagazine. com+15oxfordbusinessgroup.com+15itf-oecd. org+15 High‑speed rail in Morocco (Wikipedia – Al Boraq & 2040 Rail Strategy): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High-speed_rail_ in_Morocco en.wikipedia.org+3en.wikipedia. org+3linkedin.com+3 Morocco’s Atlantic Initiative & Dakhla Atlantic port overview (Atalayar, Jan 2025): https://www.atalayar.com/en/articulo/economyand-business/dakhla-atlantic-port-the-newgateway-to-africa/20250109175517209700. html morocconow.com+15atalayar. com+15policycenter.ma+15 Dakhla Atlantic Port – Business Focus Magazine (Interview with Nisrine Iouzzi, Oct 2024): https://businessfocusmagazine.com/2024/10/28/ dakhla-atlantic-port-a-new-gateway-to-africa/ policycenter.ma+3businessfocusmagazine. com+3youtube.com+3 High-speed rail expansions & funding overview (Wikipedia Transport in Morocco – Dec 2024): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transport_in_ Morocco

Agri-Foods

Morocco’s Agri‑Food Exports: Sustainable Powerhouse to EU & UK Morocco’s agri‑food exports are booming—driven by sustainable practices, strong institutional support, and strategic growth in EU & UK markets.

Morocco’s agri‑food sector has cemented its status as a major economic player, contributing over 16 % of GDP and nearly one‑fifth of total exports. This transformation – powered by progressive policy, public‑private partnerships, and a focus on sustainability – has elevated Moroccan produce to global prominence. Key Western European markets, especially the EU and post‑Brexit UK, benefit from Morocco’s reliable, off‑season supply.

fruit.com. Lemons are likewise making a comeback: 6,100 tonnes generated $2.7 million in revenue in early 2025.

reinforcing Morocco’s role in UK food security strategy.

In parallel, Morocco has emerged as the world’s largest canned sardine exporter, with its seafood sector now essential to agri‑food trade . Beyond these traditional lines, Moroccan exports are diversifying into berries, avocados, peppers, carrots, and more—like record‑setting carrot volumes of 69,000 tonnes in 2024.

High‑Value Agriculture: From Tomatoes to Seafood Morocco has become a world leader in tomato exports, shipping an impressive 690,000 tonnes in the current season—a 19 % increase year‑on‑year, despite persistent drought conditions. Over half of these are cherry or snack tomatoes, with the UK alone importing nearly 18 % of the total volume With modern greenhouses and efficient packaging, Morocco now supplies premium tomato varieties year‑round across Europe.

EU & UK: Cornerstone Export Destinations The European Union remains Morocco’s primary market, absorbing approximately 60 % of agricultural exports, with France, Spain, and Germany leading demand . Morocco’s season‑complementary supply helps smooth winter stock shortages across the continent.

Sustainability: The Core of Moroccan Growth Morocco is combating water scarcity and climate pressures with innovative strategies. Widespread adoption of drip irrigation, drought‑resistant crops, desalination (supplying around 40 % of Agadir’s water), and conservation agriculture are now standard practices Government subsidies and public investments under the Green Morocco Plan have significantly improved water efficiency and resilience.

The citrus sector is also thriving.

Morocco ranks among the top exporters of mandarins and oranges, with mandarin exports hitting 436,000 tonnes between July 2024 and February 2025—a 13 % increase east34 | ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Since Brexit, the United Kingdom has rapidly increased its agri‑food imports from Morocco. Between November 2023 and May 2024, UK purchases exceeded £430 million. Moroccan tomatoes have overtaken Spanish in UK market share, while citrus and berries are becoming increasingly prominent.

A 2019 UK‑Morocco trade agreement ensures favourable terms post Brexit,

The Green Morocco Plan (2008–2020) equipped farmers with modernisation tools and infrastructure. It facilitated the planting of over 400,000 hectares of fruit and olive trees and helped double agricultural exports.

Now, Generation Green 2020–2030 builds on that success, aiming to empower a new agricultural middle class, create 350,000 youth jobs, and boost agri‑food exports to $6 billion by 2030 Support from the World Bank— such as a $250 million climate resilience programme—bolsters these efforts .

Government incentives encourage sustainability and ethical production,

Agri-Foods

enhancing Morocco’s attractiveness to eco‑conscious EU and UK importers.

Institutional Framework & Export Facilitation Key to this success is Morocco Foodex (EACCE): the national export control and promotion authority. With regional and foreign offices, Foodex ensures export products meet international safety and quality standards. It also aids exporters with market intelligence, trade fair participation, and advocacy .

In 2024, Foodex introduced a voluntary sustainability certification in collaboration with FAO and EBRD, enabling Moroccan exporters to differentiate themselves in markets sensitive to environmental and social compliance.

Private Sector & Cooperative Dynamism Corporate leaders and cooperatives alike have professionalised Morocco’s agri‑food export industry. Delassus Group and Zalar Agri have invested heavily in greenhouses, irrigation, and cold‑chain logistics, ensuring compliance with global certifications such as GlobalG.A.P. and ISO. Cooperatives also play a vital role.

COPAG, a major dairy and citrus cooperative with over 20,000 farmer members, exemplifies successful valueadd aggregation—producing Jaouda

dairy products and exporting citrus and vegetables abroad.

In fisheries, clusters of small boat owners supply processors like Copelit and Sardinom, supporting Morocco’s dominance in canned sardine exports.

This fusion of local know‑how and international standards ensures quality, traceability, and trust amongst global buyers.

Outlook: Morocco as a Partner in Food Security Morocco’s agri‑food sector offers a compelling blend of sustainability, innovation, and economic opportunity.

Its strategic vision and commitment to resilient farming make it a reliable partner for EU and UK supply chains— particularly in periods of seasonal constraint or climate disruption.

Enhanced processing capacity and youth empowerment under Generation Green suggest a future where Morocco not only exports raw fruits and vegetables, but also branded, value-added products.

Investment opportunities abound in logistics, cold storage, and green technology within Morocco’s burgeoning agri‑food ecosystem.

In summary, Morocco’s strategic alignment of climate resilience, export‑oriented policy, cooperative collaboration, and strong institutional governance has fashioned a

sustainable, investor‑friendly agri‑food sector. As global demand for ethical and diverse food sources grows, Morocco is well‑positioned to lead— and to nourish both its own economy and those around the world.

Live References:

EastFruit – “Morocco’s tomato sector rises despite years of drought challenges”: https://east-fruit.com/en/news/moroccos-tomatosector-rises-despite-years-of-drought-challenges/ EastFruit – “Morocco boosts mandarin exports in MY 2024/25”: https://east-fruit.com/en/news/moroccoboosts-mandarin-exports-in-my-2024-25/ EastFruit – “Morocco’s lemon exports rebound in 2024/25”: https://www.freshplaza.com/north-america/ article/9736716/morocco-lemon-exportsrebound-in-2024-25/ Morocco World News – “Morocco tops world’s largest exporters of canned sardines”: https://www.moroccoworldnews. com/2023/04/355885/morocco-tops-worldslargest-exporters-of-canned-sardines EastFruit – “Moroccan carrot exports hit record 69,000 tons in 2024”: https://www.freshplaza.com/europe/ article/9722361/moroccan-carrot-exports-hitrecord-69-000-tons-in-2024/ Wikipedia – Agriculture in Morocco: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agriculture_in_ Morocco Wikipedia – Economy of Morocco: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Economy_of_ Morocco EastFruit – “Morocco: a growing force in sustainable fruit & vegetable exports”: https://blueberriesconsulting.com/en/ marruecos-una-fuerza-creciente-en-laexportacion-sostenible-de-frutas-y-hortalizas/

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Financial Gateway Africa

Financial Hub & Trade Gateway:

Casablanca Finance City as a Launchpad for UK–Africa Investment Casablanca Finance City (CFC) has emerged as Africa’s foremost financial centre, bridging business opportunities between Africa, Europe and the Mediterranean.

In recent years Casablanca – Morocco’s economic capital – has merged its historic trading role with a modern finance district. Indeed, one analysis notes that CFC’s skyline of high-rise towers “stand as a symbol of the city’s dream of being a main gateway for international investment into Africa”. Since its launch in 2010, CFC’s business-friendly regime has attracted hundreds of firms (around 240 companies and 7,000 jobs) from multiple sectors. This diverse member base spans banking, insurance, asset management, fintech and professional services, reflecting Morocco’s broad economy.

Official descriptions emphasise CFC as “the leading financial centre in Africa” and a partner of major global hubs.

Its mandate is clear: to provide an attractive platform (“an attractive package of incentives”.) for regional and international firms to invest and operate across Africa.

Located in the heart of Casablanca – which alone contributed roughly 32% of Morocco’s GDP in 2019. – CFC benefits from world-class infrastructure and transport links. The Authority 36 | ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

highlights its central location, advanced infrastructure and high living standards as draws for members. Over 95% of Morocco’s trade passes through its Atlantic ports, with the Port of Casablanca serving as a major outlet.

Rapid rail and highway connections (including high-speed lines linking Tangier and Agadir) further bind CFC to European and West African markets.

In practice, this means an investment headquartered in CFC can efficiently source pan-African commodities or ship goods globally.

CFC’s community encompasses all key financial sectors. Its members include major banks, insurers, asset managers, fintechs and consulting firms (though exact names are bound by confidentiality), as well as regional headquarters of multinationals. The regime offers full “doing business” support: for example, members enjoy a five-year corporate tax holiday (followed by a 20% rate thereafter), permanent exemptions on withholding taxes for dividends, and relief on

registration fees Employees pay a flat 20% personal tax for up to ten years. These incentives are codified in Morocco’s CFC status law and are publicly advertised as a “favourable tax regime”. By concentrating local regulatory approvals and providing single-window services, CFC makes expansion into Africa smoother for foreign investors. As one partner executive put it, CFC “has the key” to open the door to doing business in Morocco. These advantages – along with financial stability and currency convertibility – are credited with drawing international investors to Casablanca’s finance district.

Key advantages of CFC include: • Tax and regulatory incentives: Extended tax holidays, low corporate rates and free capital movement • Strategic connectivity: Proximity to Casablanca’s port, airports and new high-speed rail, easing trade with Europe and Africa.

Financial Gateway Africa • Support services: CFC Authority provides tailored support and networking, as highlighted by the ABCC and members • Pan-African gateway: By design CFC is pitched as a launchpad into African markets – an idea recognized by investors for “increasing capital flows to vital areas on the African continent”.

Sustainability and ESG finance are emerging pillars of CFC’s strategy. In 2017 Casablanca hosted the launch of the UN Environment Programme’s new network of sustainable financial centres.

At that summit, CFC’s CEO declared the vision of making Casablanca “a hub for green finance dedicated to Africa”. Since then the authority has commissioned Africa-focused ESG studies and forums – for instance, a May 2025 “Africa Insights” report on sustainability coproduced with Oxford Economics. CFC has also launched an Africa Innovation Lab for fintech and sustainable projects and is working on a voluntary carbon market for private enterprises The centre actively promotes green bonds, ESG lending and renewable-energy finance, tapping into Morocco’s broader commitment (via COP21/COP22) to climate goals. This emphasis appeals to institutional investors from London and other centres looking for impact or compliant finance platforms in Africa. In short, Casablanca is not only a financial hub in the classic sense but is positioning itself at the heart of Africa’s green-growth agenda.

From the UK perspective, Morocco – and by extension CFC – is gaining heightened attention. British officials have recently stressed Morocco’s importance as a partner. In June 2025 the UK Foreign Secretary lauded Morocco as “an increasingly important trade and investment partner”.

This mirrors UK diplomacy: the UK government signed new cooperation deals covering ports, water, health and major events (e.g. the 2030 World Cup) that could be worth tens of billions to UK firms. Indeed, UK trade guidance notes an Association Agreement in force from 2021 and anticipates over “£50bn+” of public projects in Morocco over the next five years.. Casablanca’s airport and motorway expansions alone feature prominently, with British engineering and finance firms expected to compete. In this context, UK exporters are explicitly told that “Casablanca Finance City offers support to companies wishing to invest” – a clear signal that London authorities see CFC as a vehicle for UK–Africa trade.

Morocco’s UK ambassador adds that

recent diplomatic breakthroughs “open new avenues for deeper UK–Morocco economic cooperation”, underlining Morocco’s role as a key gateway to Africa” Nevertheless, UK–Morocco trade is still modest (around £4.2 bn in 2024, just 0.2% of UK total). Observers note the potential for growth, given Morocco’s stability and upcoming World Cup-driven investment: for example, reports project roughly £33 bn of public procurement contracts by 2028.

Trade facilitation is a core theme of CFC’s mission. By clustering financial services, corporate headquarters and logistic links, CFC aims to streamline cross-border business. Morocco already touts itself as a “gateway to Africa” – a notion backed by its port network and recent free-trade agreements.

The country has deepened ties with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and CFC is viewed as a critical entry point for firms utilising AfCFTA’s single market. In practical terms, a company setting up at CFC can efficiently handle transactions across the continent: letters of credit, commodity financing and regional treasury functions are all simplified

by CFC’s unified legal framework and the ease of repatriating capital.

Casablanca’s digital infrastructure and English-common-law subsidiary setups further smooth service delivery.

In sum, CFC offers a one-stop-shop experience: office space, legal and tax facilitation, plus networking with likeminded corporates and investors – all on Africa’s doorstep.

Casablanca Finance City thus encapsulates Morocco’s strategy of economic openness. Government initiatives – from CFC status incentives to bilateral investment forums – complement private-sector dynamism. The Arab British Chamber of Commerce highlights that CFC membership includes a wide range of finance companies and multinationals, underscoring its broad sectoral base.

From real estate development firms to telecom investors, many see in CFC a secure springboard: a centre that combines competitive costs with regional reach. The Moroccan government actively promotes this, viewing CFC as part of its industrialisation and Africa-integration plans. For UK businesses and financiers exploring Africa, Casablanca Finance City now stands out as an established platform – one with ambitious ESG credentials, robust government backing, and a growing track record of linking London capital to African projects.

Meta Description: Casablanca Finance City (CFC) is Morocco’s leading financial hub and a strategic launchpad for UK–Africa investment. This article explores CFC’s role in bridging Europe and Africa, its financial services cluster, ESG initiatives, government incentives and key UK–Morocco economic ties.

References: Casablanca Finance City (CFC) – official website https://casablancafinancecity.com/en/ doingbusiness#:~:text=CFC%27s%20 regulatory%20framework%20is%20 designed,of%20a%20favorable%20tax%20regime Casablanca Finance City Authority – “Morocco: Gateway to Africa” (ABCC report) https://abcc.org.uk/1st-2022-abcc-membersnetworking-event-2/#:~:text=Recognized%20 as%20the%20leading%20financial,service%20 providers%20and%20holding%20companies Government of the United Kingdom – “New UKMoroccan partnerships to grow the UK economy” (Press release, 2 June 2025) https://www.gov.uk/government/news/ new-uk-moroccan-partnerships-to-grow-ukeconomy#:~:text=,for%20the%202030%20 World%20Cup UK Government Business – “Exporting from the UK to Morocco: Market Guide” (business.gov.uk) https://www.business.gov.uk/export-fromuk/markets/morocco/#:~:text=Morocco%20 is%20increasingly%20recognised%20for,to%20 companies%20wishing%20to%20invest The Guardian – “High-rise, high expectations: is Casablanca’s finance hub a model for African development?” (3 June 2025) https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/jun/03/ casablanca-finance-hub-african-developmentmorocco#:~:text=For%20centuries%2C%20 Casablanca%20was%20a,the%20Middle%20 East%20and%20Europe UN Environment Programme (UNEP) – “World’s Financial Centres Join Forces to Promote Sustainable Finance” (press release, 28 Sep 2017) https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/pressrelease/worlds-financial-centres-join-forcespromote-sustainable-finance#:~:text=Said%20 Ibrahimi%2C%20CEO%2C%20Casablanca%20 Finance,%E2%80%9D PortCityFutures (Leiden-Delft-Erasmus Uni.) – “Morocco’s Port Cities: A Rising Power in Global Trade” (4 July 2025) https://www.portcityfutures.nl/news/ moroccos-port-cities-a-rising-power-in-globaltrade#:~:text=The%20Casablanca,El%20Idrissi%20 %26%20Chegri%2C%202021 WAIFC – “CFC Insights Conference on Sustainability in Africa” (event details, May 2025) https://waifc.finance/events/cfcinsights-conference-on-sustainability-inafrica/#:~:text=Casablanca%20Finance%20 City%20is%20pleased,the%20sustainability%20 agenda%20across%20Africa Clifford Chance – “Casablanca Finance City – Africa’s new financial hub” (briefing, 13 Dec 2011) https://www.cliffordchance.com/briefings/2011/12/ casablanca_financecityafricasnewfinancia. html#:~:text=Morocco%E2%80%99s%20 decision%20to%20create%20Casablanca,and%20 capital%20markets%20associate%20Ouns African Business – “A new era of Morocco-UK collaboration?” (9 July 2025) https://african.business/2025/07/tradeinvestment/a-new-era-of-morocco-ukcollaboration#:~:text=The%20move%20is%20 seen%20by,economic%20cooperation%20and%20 shared%20prosperity%E2%80%9D

ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | 37

Human Development Strategy

Social Reform & Human Capital:

Insights into Morocco’s Investments in Education, Healthcare, and Social Inclusion—Key Pillars for Sustainable Growth and Job Creation Morocco’s future growth depends on investing in its people.

This article explores how recent reforms – from ramped-up school funding to universal health coverage and social support programmes – are developing human capital and inclusive growth.

National Strategy and Human Capital Morocco has embraced a long-term strategy that places human capital at its centre. In 2021 the government launched a participatory “New Development Model” to improve skills, productivity and inclusion. This aligns with Sustainable Development Goals and reflects a belief that no economy can thrive without healthy, educated citizens. Recent policy statements emphasise the integration of education, health and social policies to build resilience and reduce inequality. As one official report notes, an “integrated approach, with a focus on investments in human capital,” is essential for a competitive, diversified economy.

Education Reforms and Investments Morocco has significantly increased its education spending and launched reforms to boost learning outcomes.

In 2022/23 the education budget rose from 62.5 to 69 billion dirhams, including substantial allocations for 38 | ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

early childhood and rural schools.

Specific initiatives include expanded pre-school programmes and support for disadvantaged students. For instance, the TAYSSIR conditional cash-transfer scheme now reaches 2.3 million children, helping poor families cover school costs.

– Expanded funding: Education spending jumped to about 6% of GDP by 2022(one of the highest shares in the region), with an emphasis on pre-school facilities and teacher training.

– Access & inclusion: Programmes like TAYSSIR and DAAM (for orphans and widows) channel hundreds of millions of dirhams to needy students, reducing drop-out rates The Royal Initiative “One Million School Bags” provides free books and supplies to millions of pupils annually.

– Curriculum reforms: A national education strategy is underway focusing on foundational literacy and

numeracy, improving teacher quality and civic engagement to prepare students for a modern economy.

– Skills development: New institutions and programmes are being created to align with labour market needs.

Morocco founded the Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) as a research and engineering hub, and coding schools to train young people in IT skills. A network of Lycées d’Excellence (LYDEX) now scholarships top students to study engineering at elite global universities.

Together, these measures are building a more skilled workforce. The results are already evident in basic access: net primary school enrollment is now nearly universal (about 99% of children enrolled in 2022). While challenges remain – notably improving rural school quality – Morocco’s sustained investment means the next generation of workers is better educated and more adaptable than ever.

Human Development Strategy

This, in turn, attracts businesses seeking skilled labour and helps reduce longrun youth unemployment by equipping graduates with practical skills.

Healthcare Access and Outcomes Morocco has likewise transformed its healthcare system. Over the past few years the country expanded insurance coverage and health spending to create a more equitable system. A landmark reform in 2022 merged the AMO (formal sector insurance) and RAMED (subsidised care for the poor) schemes into a single unified programme called AMOTadamon. This consolidation immediately extended full coverage to roughly 11 million previously uninsured Moroccans, who can now use both public and private facilities.

– Universal insurance: The AMO-Tadamon reform (2022) brought 22 million people under compulsory health insurance, effectively closing gaps between urban workers and rural poor.

Employed citizens now make a single unified contribution that covers income tax, pensions and healthcare, and the state subsidises care for those with lower incomes.

– Budget increase: Health spending rose sharply – the health sector budget grew from 23 billion to 28 billion MAD between 2022 and 2023 (about 7.3% of the total budget) – enabling more hospitals, clinics and staff. The government is also decentralising services and investing in digital health platforms to reach remote areas.

resilience. Healthy, insured workers miss fewer days and can retrain more easily.

For investors, this means a more reliable workforce. Moreover, as demand for healthcare rises (with income growth), sectors such as pharmaceuticals, medical equipment and telemedicine are expanding – creating new business opportunities.

Social Inclusion and Safety Nets Social inclusion is a central pillar of Morocco’s development model. Recent reforms have strengthened support for vulnerable groups and expanded the social safety net. One key initiative was the creation of a Unified Social Register (USR) in 2023, an electronic database identifying poor families, orphans, widows and others in need. This makes it easier to target subsidies and benefits based on objective criteria.

– Cash transfers: In December 2023 Morocco launched a Direct Social Benefit (DSB) programme to provide monthly cash assistance to poor households. By early 2025 it already reached about 3.9 million households (roughly one in five Moroccans). Under this scheme, each household receives a stipend, and the government is integrating the programme with job training and childcare services to encourage labour participation.

– Expanded pensions and assistance: Alongside health insurance, compulsory pensions and unemployment benefits are being extended to more workers

and informal sector entrants. The goal is to bring millions more into formal protection. All these contributions and payouts are being merged into a single platform to simplify administration and close loopholes.

– Targeted programmes: Specialized programmes address particular vulnerabilities. For example, the DAAM programme channels hundreds of millions of dirhams to support single mothers, widows and orphaned children. Local social services in each province focus on children with disabilities and other at-risk groups.

There are also growing efforts to improve access for rural communities – for instance, community clinics and mobile health units, often funded by both government and private foundations.

– Poverty reduction: These social measures have produced tangible results. According to the World Bank, Morocco’s national poverty rate fell to about 3.8% by 2022, one of the lowest levels in the region. Extreme poverty is now very rare. (The Brookings Institute notes that inclusive policies over the past two decades have dramatically reduced poverty and inequality.)

Nonetheless, regional disparities and high youth unemployment (see below) mean the government continues to expand these programmes to ensure balanced growth.

Collectively, these reforms strengthen social stability and raise living standards.

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– Improved outcomes: These investments are paying off. Maternal mortality has declined dramatically (to about 72.6 per 100,000 by 2020, down from over 200 in 2004) and child vaccination rates have risen. Overall life expectancy has increased by nearly a decade since the 1990s.

– Remaining gaps: Despite progress, challenges persist – for example, there are still only about 7.2 doctors per 10,000 people, and health infrastructure remains weaker in some rural areas. Ongoing reforms (backed by international partners) are targeting these shortages and improving primary care. The World Bank notes that extending insurance and better coordinating services can greatly strengthen the social safety net.

By widening healthcare access, Morocco is improving labour productivity and ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | 39

Human Development Strategy CONTINUED FROM PAGE 39...

For investors, a society with broadbased health coverage, education and income support is less prone to unrest and creates a predictable business environment. Moreover, empowering women and youth through social programmes expands the labour pool: new research funding, microcredit and professional training for women entrepreneurs are encouraging more women to enter the workforce.

Economic Implications and Job Creation Morocco’s social investments are tightly linked to its economic goals. A bettereducated and healthier population generates productivity gains and attracts investment. For example, Morocco’s skilled workforce in manufacturing helped the country become Africa’s leading auto exporter. Major carmakers like Renault and Stellantis (PSA) have set up factories in Tangier, making Morocco the continent’s largest producer and exporter of cars. Similarly, parts suppliers such as Valeo, Yazaki and Sumitomo have invested here, drawn by the available talent.

– Industry diversification: Continued spending on higher education and R&D (e.g. at UM6P) underpins growth in renewable energy, aerospace and IT sectors. Firms such as Airbus and Bombardier are expanding operations in Morocco, capitalising on a pipeline of engineers. Likewise, the financial and services sectors benefit from more economists, lawyers and business graduates. This broadens the economy beyond agriculture and low-end manufacturing.

– Entrepreneurship: Youth-targeted initiatives are encouraging startups.

For instance, the government’s Intilaka and Forsa programmes (2020–23) offered subsidised credit and training to new entrepreneurs, while a national Mohammed VI Fund (capital ~15 billion MAD) was created in 2020 to finance SMEs and job-generating ventures.

These measures aim to turn skills into new businesses, especially in nontraditional regions and sectors.

– Labour market challenges: Despite these efforts, unemployment – especially among young people – remains high.

Official data show overall unemployment at 13.3% in 2024, with youth (age 15–24) unemployment around 36.7% The government is responding with expanded vocational training, apprenticeships and job-placement services to better match graduates with industry needs. For example, vocational institutes now work closely with manufacturers to ensure curricula align with workplace requirements.

– Investment climate: From an investor perspective, Morocco’s focus on human capital and inclusion strengthens its appeal. Foreign companies benefit from a more stable society and predictable social policy. As incomes rise across broader segments of the population, domestic demand for goods and services grows – creating new opportunities in retail, healthcare, education and finance. In short, by investing in its people, Morocco is laying the groundwork for sustained business growth and job creation in the years ahead.

References: Nadia Fettah Alaoui (Minister of Economy & Finance, Morocco), “Morocco’s journey toward achieving the SDGs: Prioritizing economic resilience and social transformation,” Brookings Institute, 27 Mar 2025 (Discusses Morocco’s inclusive growth strategy.) https://www.brookings.edu/articles/ moroccos-journey-toward-achieving-thesdgs-prioritizing-economic-resilience-andsocial-transformation/#:~:text=policies%20 to%20address%20poverty%2C%20 inequality%2C,SDG%201%20on%20 eradicating%20poverty UNICEF, “Morocco Country Office Annual Report 2022,” UNICEF (2023) (Government budgets for education/health and social protection reforms.) https://www.unicef.org/media/136221/file/ Morocco-2022-COAR.pdf#:~:text=In%20 terms%20of%20social%20 protection%2C,ahead%20of%20rolling%20 out%20family World Bank, “World Bank supports Morocco’s commitment to advancing social safety nets for human development,” Press Release, 19 June 2025. (Details Direct Social Benefit programme and poverty reduction.) https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/ press-release/2025/06/19/world-banksupports-morocco-s-commitment-toadvancing-social-safety-nets-for-humandevelopment#:~:text=,services%20to%20 enhance%20women%27s%20and UNESCWA (Molly Hickey), “Universal Healthcare: Morocco – integrating all healthcare programs (2022–present),” SDG16.plus, 6 June 2024 (Explains AMO-Tadamon health insurance reform.) https://www.sdg16.plus/policies/universalhealthcare-morocco/#:~:text=In%20 2022%2C%20to%20reduce%20 some,Under%20the Atlantic Council (Rabah Arezki), “Morocco’s government must foster greater economic competition,” Nov 2022. (On Morocco’s New Development Model and inclusion.) https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/indepth-research-reports/books/moroccosgovernment-must-foster-greater-economiccompetition/#:~:text=especially%20in%20 rural%20areas,relatively%20high%20level%20 of%20debt Anadolu Agency, “Morocco’s unemployment rate rises to 13.3% in 2024,” 3 Feb 2025. (Latest labour statistics, including youth unemployment.) https://www.aa.com.tr/en/economy/ morocco-s-unemployment-rate-rises-to-133in-2024/3470256#:~:text=6.3,areas%2C%20 it%20added Abdessamad Khadiri, “Employment by Subsidizing Businesses in Morocco: A Fantasy?” Arab Reform Initiative, 2 Aug 2024. (Context on recent youth programmes and investment fund.) https://www.arab-reform.net/publication/ employment-by-subsidizing-businesses-inmorocco-a-fantasy/#:~:text=In%20parallel%20 with%20the%20post,was%20ratified%20in%20 December%202022 Carnegie Endowment (Alexandre Kateb), “Morocco’s Long Road Toward Economic Transformation,” Sep 202. (Analysis of industry growth – e.g. automotive export success.) https://carnegieendowment.org/ research/2024/09/moroccos-long-road-towardeconomic-transformation?lang=en

40 | ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Head of International Trade

Trade & Investment

UK and Morocco Seek to Boost Trade and Investment Partnership The United Kingdom and the Kingdom of Morocco are seeking to forge new business partnerships across sectors identifying a wealth of potential for future advance.

The latest statistics on trade and investment between the UK and Morocco were released by the Department for Business & Trade on 19 June 2025. These figures, based on Office for National Statistics data, show that total trade in goods and services (exports plus imports) between the UK and Morocco was £4.2 billion in the four quarters to the end of Q4 2024, an increase of 15.4% or £562 million in current prices from the four quarters to the end of Q4 2023.

Of this £4.2 billion: • Total UK exports to Morocco amounted to £1.6 billion at end Q4 2024 (an increase of 14.9% or £209 million in current prices, compared to end Q4 2023); • Total UK imports from Morocco amounted to £2.6 billion at end Q4 2024 (an increase of 15.7% or £353 million in current prices, compared to end Q4 2023).

42 | ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Latest Cooperation Highlights A press release from the UK Government headed, New UKMoroccan partnerships to grow UK economy, 2 June 2025, highlighted the latest UK-Morocco collaboration initiatives.

• British companies front of the queue to deliver infrastructure for the 2030 FIFA World Cup – injecting money into the UK economy • game-changing deals with ministries of water, health, and trade, unlocking contracts in a market where public procurement opportunities are estimated at around £33bn over the next three years, including a £1.2bn Casablanca Airport project, with UK companies a key part of Morocco’s ‘Airports 2030’ programme • arrangement to partner with Morocco’s national healthcare transformation reforms, worth over

£2bn, will create opportunities for UK health sector and a new £150m hospital project, for UK finance and clinical expertise to deliver a 250bed hospital in Casablanca, will drive revenue for an NHS trust The UK has strengthened its partnership with Morocco advancing the country’s relationship worth over £4 billion annually and unlocking opportunities for UK businesses during Foreign Secretary visit to Morocco in June this year, ahead of the 2030 World Cup. As part of the UK Government’s drive to boost economic growth, the UK and Morocco announced a series of arrangements to deepen collaboration and build business ties between both countries delivering its Plan for Change to boost growth, create jobs and put more money in people’s pockets.

The Foreign Secretary signed a series of partnerships unlocking opportunities for UK businesses in projects across

Trade & Investment

the country, where public procurement opportunities are estimated at around £33bn over the next three years. This includes the possibility of infrastructure firms supporting World Cup host cities such Marrakech, Casablanca, and Rabat.

This will put British businesses at the front of the queue to secure contracts to build Moroccan infrastructure for the 2030 World Cup – injecting money into the construction sector, the FCDO says. Since the Sydney Olympic Games in 2000, UK expertise and industry has been involved in every major global sporting tournament. The deal with Morocco places British businesses in an advantageous position to support the 2030 World Cup, continuing Britain’s strong legacy of delivering sporting infrastructure and enduring impact.

Other announcements on UK-Morocco cooperation include joint action to tackle water scarcity and climate change, delivering greater security and green growth opportunities for both countries.

A cooperation arrangement on water and ports infrastructure, worth up to £200m, will promote UK expertise in

sustainable water management, smart logistics, and green port technologies.

An arrangement on procurement will create a foundation for UK companies to access public tenders in Morocco, supporting a level playing field for UK innovation and expertise to compete.

On his official visit to Morocco on 1 June, UK Foreign Secretary, David Lammy said: “Growth and prosperity will underpin our relationship Morocco and beyond, helping forge new opportunities at home and abroad.

His visit aimed to “foster new business relationships between the UK and Morocco, and deliver on our commitment to strengthen our economy. These announcements mean UK businesses will be able to score big in the delivery of the 2030 World Cup.” Morocco is co-hosting the 2030 World Cup in cooperation with Spain and Portugal.

The Foreign Secretary was in Morocco to attend the fifth session of the UKMorocco Strategic Dialogue. A joint communiqué referred to the two

countries’ 800-year history and their joint commitment to developing an “ambitious, forward-looking strategic partnership”.

The UK and Morocco also “reaffirmed their mutual commitment to deepening collaboration across all dimensions: political, diplomatic, security, economic, cultural and people-to-people exchanges”.

The communiqué also said the signing of a number of agreements and memoranda of understanding (MOUs) “will give new impetus to the bilateral partnership” and deepen cooperation in areas including “healthcare, water, energy, transport, defence and procurement”.

UK Minister for Trade Policy, Douglas Alexander has stated: “Morocco is becoming an increasingly important trade and investment partner for the UK. Growth is this government’s top priority and stronger ties with economies like Morocco will pave the way for new opportunities, supporting British businesses and creating jobs. >>> ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | 43

Trade & Investment CONTINUED FROM PAGE 43...

“UK companies are already securing major commercial wins in Morocco, playing a vital role in delivering critical infrastructure for the 2030 World Cup.” The 1 June visit was the occasion to announce a new deal for the UK healthcare sector to supply equipment to hospitals and medical centres across the country.

The deal represents a boost to the UK exports of medical and life sciences equipment, with Morocco due to spend up to £2.8 billion pounds to transform their health care system.

UK trade relations in perspective The UK has had an association agreement with Morocco since 2019, which replaces the EU-Morocco Agreement that ceased to apply following the UK’s exit from the EU. The association agreement entered into force in January 2021 and facilitates the bilateral trading relationship.

Baroness Gustafsson, Minister in the Department for Business and Trade, set out the UK’s priorities regarding Morocco in a written Parliamentary response in May 2025, stating: “HM Government is keen to strengthen trade ties with Morocco. In January 2025, Ben Coleman MP was appointed Trade Envoy for Morocco and Francophone West Africa. Total trade in goods and services (exports plus imports) between the UK and Morocco was £4.2 billion in 2024, up £0.6bn in current prices from 2023.”

In March 2025, Gareth Thomas MP, Minister of State for Services, Small Business and Exports, visited Morocco with a delegation of businesses to showcase UK support for major infrastructure projects and signed a declaration of intent with the Head of the World Cup Committee to progress UK-Morocco collaboration on Morocco’s co-hosting of the Men’s Football World Cup in 2030.

Ministers emphasise that the UK looks forward to working with Morocco on this event and on other infrastructure projects.

Total trade in goods and services between the UK and Morocco was £4.2 billion in 2024. Morocco was the UK’s 51st largest trading partner, accounting for 0.2% of total trade in 2024. The majority of UK exports to Morocco in 2024 were goods (67.7%), 44 | ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

predominantly refined oil, metal ores and scrap, cars and mechanical power generators. The main imports from Morocco were vegetables and fruit, miscellaneous electrical goods, cars and furniture.

Recent joint agreements • 2030 World Cup Government to Government Partnership Agreement, signed between the UK Department of Business and Trade, and Morocco’s Minister Delegate of Budget, to progress UK-Morocco collaboration on critical infrastructure projects ahead of tournament.

• MOU signed between the UK DBT and Trade and Morocco’s Ministry of Equipment and Water to strengthen bilateral cooperation on water and ports infrastructure, promoting UK expertise in sustainable water management, smart logistics, and green port technologies.

• Agreement between the UK DBT and Morocco’s Ministry of Interior to advance sustainable infrastructure and partnerships between the UK and Moroccan local authorities across several priority sectors, including water management, sustainable waste management, and urban mobility.

• Noting the ongoing strength of the UK Morocco Association Agreement, driving record bilateral trade volumes, a MOU was signed between the UK Department of Business and Trade and Morocco’s Ministry of Industry and Trade to promote procurement cooperation.

• A MOU between the UK and Morocco covering higher education, scientific research, and innovation.

• MOU signed between the UK DBT and Morocco’s Ministry of Health to enable UK private sector engagement to support Morocco’s

healthcare transformation programme. confirming comms lines • UK Export Finance MOU with SGTM to explore opportunities of partnership in Morocco and wider Africa.

• UK Export Finance, and TAQA Morocco have signed a MOU to support TAQA Morocco’s transition to a low-carbon power generation portfolio in line with the sustainable roadmap of Morocco. This will contribute to give additional access to competitive, innovative and accelerated financial conditions to enhance Morocco’s competitiveness.

• A MOU on climate collaboration and related environmental services between the UK Met Office and Morocco Meteorological Office.

• An intent to collaborate with Vicenne to introduce UK digital health solutions to the Moroccan market and support innovation in partnership with the Ministry of Health.

• An intent to collaborate with the Mohammed VI Foundation of Health and Science aims to promote UK expertise in medical equipment, hospital design, and academic partnership to support healthcare development in Morocco.

• An invitation to the Moroccan Airports Authority to visit the UK and explore partnership opportunities amidst Morocco’s airport transformation plans.

Sources: FCDO press release, 2 June 2025 (edited); UK relations with Morocco, report, House of Commons, 13 June 2025 (edited).

Quarterly Economic Survey

ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | 45

Quarterly Economic Survey

46 | ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Quarterly Economic Survey

This report is published with the permission of the British Chambers of Commerce.

ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | 47

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