Casablanca – Morocco and China are experiencing a notable strengthening of economic ties, marked by robust trade exchanges and increasing Chinese investment in strategic sectors across the Kingdom. The growth reflects a long-term strategic partnership that combines commercial interests, industrial development, and regional economic integration.

According to official figures from China’s Ministry of Commerce, bilateral trade between Morocco and China reached a record $9.04 billion in 2024, the highest level in the history of trade relations between the two nations. In the first seven months of 2025, trade flows reached approximately $6 billion, maintaining a strong momentum despite global economic uncertainties. Chinese authorities have called on companies to increase imports of Moroccan agricultural and industrial products while expanding investments within Morocco, signaling confidence in the Kingdom as a stable and promising partner.

The growth in economic ties has been highlighted during high-level exchanges, such as the seventh session of the Joint Commission on Economic and Trade Cooperation, held in Beijing in December 2025. The meeting brought together China’s Minister of Commerce Wang Wentao and Morocco’s Minister of Industry and Trade Ryad Mezzour, focusing on reviewing bilateral cooperation and identifying opportunities for further development.

Chinese officials have emphasized the complementary nature of the two economies, noting that Moroccan infrastructure and industrial capacities provide a strong base for deepening economic collaboration. Projects such as Tangier Tech City, developed through a Sino-Moroccan partnership, have attracted 40 companies to establish operations, reflecting the growing integration of production and supply chains between the two countries. In addition, Chinese firms have contributed to major Moroccan infrastructure projects, including electricity networks, renewable energy, and transport systems, strengthening the Kingdom’s logistics and productive capabilities.

Investment initiatives extend to the industrial sector, with the announcement of an electric battery manufacturing facility in Ibn Slimane, valued at approximately $6.7 million. Additional projects are underway in Tangier, Kenitra, and central Morocco, reflecting China’s interest in leveraging the Kingdom as a strategic gateway to Europe and Africa. Emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence, green technologies, and digitalization are also becoming focal points for Chinese investment, in line with Morocco’s broader industrial and technological ambitions.

Historically, Morocco and China have maintained diplomatic relations since 1958. The relationship has evolved significantly in recent years, particularly after the signing of a strategic partnership agreement in 2016. The agreement laid the foundation for multidimensional cooperation encompassing trade, industry, technology, and geopolitical collaboration. Morocco officially joined China’s Belt and Road Initiative in 2017, further cementing the framework for infrastructure and investment projects.

For Morocco, the partnership with China represents a strategic opportunity to strengthen its regional influence and diversify its international economic partnerships. By attracting Chinese investment and deepening trade relations, Morocco seeks to reinforce its position as a hub for industrial, technological, and logistical activities in North Africa. For China, Morocco offers a stable and reliable partner to facilitate trade with Europe and West Africa while expanding its presence in the region.

Both governments have expressed a commitment to advancing collaboration through enhanced coordination between business and trade authorities, professional associations, and chambers of commerce. Initiatives such as the “Ten Partnership Projects” under the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation further aim to solidify Sino-Moroccan cooperation in areas of mutual interest, including renewable energy, digital economy, and sustainable development.

Looking ahead, the partnership is expected to focus on achieving a more balanced trade relationship, increasing Moroccan exports to China, and integrating production and supply chains across sectors. With strategic projects underway and ongoing high-level engagement, Morocco-China relations are entering a new phase characterized by practical cooperation, industrial expansion, and shared economic growth.