Casablanca – The Brazilian aerospace giant, Embraer, is intensifying its focus on Morocco as part of its strategy to expand its aerospace supply chain and foster innovation. Recently, a high-level delegation from Embraer completed an official visit to Morocco to explore key opportunities for collaboration, particularly in the areas of commercial aviation, defense, and urban air mobility. This visit follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Embraer and the Moroccan government in October 2024 during the Marrakech International Airshow. The agreement paves the way for joint projects that will reinforce the industrial and technological ties between the two countries.

About Embraer: A global aerospace leader

Founded in 1969 and headquartered in São José dos Campos, Brazil, Embraer is one of the world’s largest and most influential aerospace companies, specializing in the design, manufacture, and supply of commercial, defense, and executive aviation products. The company’s portfolio includes a wide range of aircraft, from regional jets to military aircraft, and it serves customers in over 100 countries. Embraer has delivered more than 9,000 aircraft and its products transport over 150 million passengers globally each year. With its ongoing commitment to innovation, Embraer is the leader in producing commercial jets with up to 150 seats, and it is a key player in the global aerospace supply chain.

Morocco: A strategic partner for expansion

Embraer has chosen Morocco as a key regional partner to bolster its supply chain capabilities, tapping into the country’s growing aerospace industry. The collaboration aligns with Embraer’s long-term vision of expanding its operations in Africa and the broader Middle East region. The company views Morocco as a strategic location for the development of a strong and efficient aerospace network, citing the country’s advanced industrial base, skilled workforce, and increasingly competitive position in the aerospace sector.

The Moroccan aerospace industry has demonstrated impressive growth over recent years, with a focus on aerostructures, machining, sheet metal work, and composite materials. These capabilities align with Embraer’s needs, making Morocco an ideal partner for enhancing its global supply chain. The country has already attracted several international aerospace companies, with its skilled labor force and well-established infrastructure offering a solid foundation for Embraer’s expansion.

“We are excited to strengthen our presence in Morocco, which has a rapidly developing aerospace industry,” said Roberto Chaves, Embraer’s Executive Vice President of Global Procurement and Supply Chain. “We have identified a number of key suppliers that meet our rigorous standards and are ready to be integrated into our global network. Morocco’s position as a key regional partner will help us enhance our supply chain and contribute to mutual economic growth.”

Opportunities for innovation and growth

Embraer sees Morocco not just as a supplier hub, but as a center for innovation in the aerospace sector. The company is particularly interested in Morocco’s capabilities in composite materials, a vital area for the development of lightweight, fuel-efficient aircraft. As Embraer continues to push for more sustainable aviation solutions, Morocco’s advancements in aerospace technology could play a crucial role in the company’s future product lines.

In addition to the manufacturing and supply chain aspects, the partnership between Embraer and Morocco is expected to include training programs to build local expertise in aviation maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO). These programs will ensure a steady pipeline of highly skilled professionals, which is vital as both Morocco and Embraer look to grow the aerospace sector.

Moreover, the collaboration could extend to joint research projects, with an emphasis on urban air mobility and defense technologies. Both these sectors are seeing rapid advancements, and Embraer sees Morocco as a fertile ground for innovation in these areas, aligning with Morocco’s ambition to expand its aerospace exports and industry capabilities.

A promising future for the aerospace sector

The MoU signed between Embraer and the Moroccan government underscores the two sides’ shared commitment to strengthening industrial ties. The agreement is designed to facilitate joint ventures, partnerships, and investments that will drive economic growth in both Brazil and Morocco. It is also seen as a significant step toward enhancing Morocco’s position as a global player in the aerospace industry.

According to Minister of Industry and Trade, Ryad Mezzour, “This agreement with Embraer reflects the growing strength of Morocco’s aerospace sector and demonstrates our capacity to attract world-class investments. It is an important milestone in the development of the Moroccan aerospace industry, creating new opportunities for local businesses and skilled workers.”

Embraer’s investment in Morocco is also expected to have a substantial impact on job creation. The company estimates that the partnership could generate as many as 1,000 direct and indirect jobs by 2035, further solidifying Morocco’s role as a key player in the global aerospace supply chain.

Looking ahead: A long-term partnership

With Embraer focusing its efforts on expanding its presence in Morocco, the two countries are positioned to build a long-lasting and mutually beneficial relationship in the aerospace sector. Both Embraer and the Moroccan government are committed to fostering innovation, creating jobs, and advancing the aerospace industry in the region. The partnership represents a significant opportunity for Morocco to not only grow its aerospace industry but also to play a key role in the global aerospace supply chain, working alongside one of the world’s leading aerospace manufacturers.

As Embraer continues to evaluate and expand its operations in Morocco, the future looks bright for both countries as they work together to achieve greater success in the rapidly evolving aerospace market.