Casablanca – In a showcase of the nation’s industrial achievements, Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch and Minister of Industry and Trade Ryad Mezzour gathered in Benguerir for the 2nd National Industry Day, highlighting the impressive strides made in Morocco’s industrial sector over the past decade.
During the event, which serves as a platform for exchanging ideas and celebrating achievements, both ministers presented compelling statistics that underscore the sector’s robust expansion. Notably, the industrial turnover has quadrupled from $19 billion to $82.5 billion over the past 25 years, translating to a daily revenue of approximately $206 million. Employment in the industry has similarly doubled, now boasting nearly 97,500 jobs, with women representing 44% of the workforce—an encouraging trend in a traditionally male-dominated field.
The number of industrial enterprises has also seen remarkable growth, increasing from 4,500 to nearly 12,800, while exports soared from $6.3 billion to $38.9 billion during the same period. In 2023, processed products accounted for 88% of all exports, emphasizing Morocco’s shift toward higher value-added manufacturing.
Prime Minister Akhannouch remarked on the government’s commitment to enhancing the industrial landscape, noting the importance of comprehensive strategies that align with global economic trends. The Prime Minister highlighted ongoing efforts to bolster infrastructure, including the vital Tanger Med port and a vast network of highways, which have facilitated trade and investment.
Minister Ryad Mezzour further elaborated on the achievements, emphasizing the significant role of foreign direct investment (FDI), which has averaged 33% in the industrial sector over the last five years. He proudly noted that 71% of the sector’s capital is now Moroccan, reflecting a strengthening national economy.
In the automotive industry, Morocco has emerged as Africa’s leading producer of passenger cars, with the potential to exponentially increase exports. The minister announced that in 2023, the automotive sector achieved exports worth $15.5 billion, with the local integration rate currently at 69%. Morocco’s production capabilities are noteworthy, with a vehicle being manufactured every minute.
The aerospace sector is also flourishing, with exports reaching $2.4 billion and a local integration rate of 42%. Mezzour noted a growing interest from international manufacturers in establishing complete production lines for flying vehicles in Morocco.
Looking ahead, both Akhannouch and Mezzour expressed confidence in Morocco’s industrial future, aiming to leverage the nation’s stability and macroeconomic balance to foster a more resilient and competitive industrial environment. With ambitious plans for sustainable energy transitions, particularly in green hydrogen, Morocco aims to position itself as a global leader in cutting-edge industries while enhancing its economic sovereignty.
