Casablanca – Moroccan exports to Egypt are expected to experience significant growth over the next few years, aiming to rise from approximately $81 million in 2024 to $537 million by 2027. This positive outlook was presented by Omar Hejira, Morocco’s Secretary of State for Foreign Trade, during a recent parliamentary session.

Trade between Morocco and Egypt has traditionally been shaped by strong historical and economic ties. However, Moroccan exports to Egypt saw little growth last year, stagnating at around $81 million despite multiple existing trade agreements. Meanwhile, Egyptian exports to Morocco grew substantially, increasing from around $412 million to nearly $1.29 billion, resulting in a notable trade imbalance.

The coverage ratio of Moroccan exports relative to imports from Egypt dropped sharply from 66% to just 6%, highlighting the urgent need to boost Moroccan exports and create a more balanced trade relationship.

In response, a Moroccan trade delegation consisting of over 40 business leaders and exporters recently visited Egypt to explore opportunities and strengthen economic ties. The mission facilitated over 200 meetings between Moroccan and Egyptian business operators, which led to preliminary agreements expected to be expanded and implemented soon.

The automotive sector emerged as a key growth area. Moroccan vehicle exports to Egypt have jumped from roughly 43 vehicles a few years ago to about 3240 units today. The sector aims to increase exports to 5400 vehicles by the end of 2025 and reach 8640 vehicles by 2026. Morocco’s development as a regional automotive hub—specializing in vehicle assembly and components manufacturing—is driving this expansion.

To support this upward trend, Moroccan authorities are working to diversify export products and address logistical and regulatory challenges hindering market access. Two joint monitoring mechanisms between Morocco and Egypt have been established to ensure closer oversight of trade relations. Additionally, a direct communication line between Secretary Hejira and the Egyptian Minister of Commerce has been set up to quickly resolve any outstanding trade issues.

One notable initiative includes a “fast-track” customs clearance system designed to speed up the entry of Moroccan goods into Egypt, reducing delays and facilitating smoother trade flows.

These efforts coincide with ongoing talks to revisit and update existing free trade agreements to better reflect current economic conditions and foster deeper integration between the two countries.

Secretary Hejira underscored the strong political will behind this renewed trade partnership, inspired by Morocco vision of South-South cooperation and regional economic integration. “Our commercial relations with Egypt exemplify successful Arab cooperation, grounded in shared history and common economic interests,” he stated.

With clear targets, concrete initiatives, and strong political support, Moroccan exports to Egypt are poised to recover from last year’s stagnation and enter a phase of sustained growth. This revitalized partnership promises benefits for businesses and economies in both countries and offers a model for strengthening trade across the Arab and African regions.