Casablanca – Morocco’s aviation industry has cemented its place as a global powerhouse, with exports in 2024 reaching $2.73 billion, marking a 14.9% increase from the previous year. This growth highlights Morocco’s emergence as Africa’s leading exporter of aircraft equipment and parts, further reinforcing its position as the fifth-largest aviation exporter worldwide.
Sector growth driven by strategic investments and expanding capabilities
The growth is largely attributed to the booming assembly segment, which saw a 23.6% increase in sales, totaling $1.78 billion. Additionally, exports of Electrical Wiring Interconnection Systems (EWIS) rose by 1.5%, reaching $938 million. These developments come as Morocco continues to invest heavily in its aerospace sector, with more than 140 international companies operating within the country.
Thanks to its geographical location near the European market and the facilities and qualified human resources it offers to global companies, Morocco has transformed into a leading African hub in the aerospace industry and a preferred destination attracting major manufacturers and global brands.
Strategic partnerships with major aerospace companies such as Boeing, Airbus, and Bombardier have contributed significantly to the sector’s success. These companies have established manufacturing and engineering centers in Morocco, allowing the country to increase its production of key aviation components, including engine parts, composite materials, and wiring systems. Morocco now produces over 40 crucial aircraft components, positioning itself as a critical player in the global aviation supply chain.
Aerospace exports and economic impact
The total value of Morocco’s aerospace exports reached $2.26 billion in 2024, driven by a robust 18% increase in the first half of the year alone. Exports of phosphates and their derivatives, which have historically been a major contributor to the country’s economy, rose by 13.1% to $8.95 billion. Meanwhile, the automotive sector saw a 6.3% increase in exports, reaching $16.2 billion, with gains also reflected in agriculture, electronics, and textiles.
The growth of Morocco’s aviation sector has contributed directly to its economic expansion. In 2024, the aerospace industry accounted for approximately $258 million in GDP contribution, with over 23,000 people employed in the sector, and a local integration rate of 42%. This growth underscores the country’s successful strategy to diversify its economy and strengthen its position in the global marketplace.
Promising future for Morocco’s aerospace industry
Looking ahead, Morocco aims to double its aviation sector employment by 2030, with a goal to manufacture an integrated aircraft within the next decade. This ambitious plan includes further developing local capabilities and fostering collaboration with international partners, as well as investing in research and innovation to stay ahead of technological advancements and global market trends.
The country has also made significant strides in sustainability, aiming to reduce carbon emissions from the sector by creating environmentally friendly solutions. Morocco’s growing aerospace industry is set to play a key role in shaping the future of aviation, not only for Africa but on a global scale.
As Morocco continues to build upon its solid foundation in aerospace manufacturing and exports, the country is poised to solidify its standing as a leader in the aviation sector and potentially in space exploration.