Casablanca – Morocco’s automotive sector began 2026 with strong export growth, reinforcing its position as the country’s leading industrial export and a key contributor to economic stability. According to data from Office des Changes, automotive exports reached more than $1.26 billion in January 2026, marking a 19.1% increase compared with the same month in 2025.

This strong performance reflects sustained global demand for vehicles and automotive components produced in Morocco, as well as the continued expansion of the country’s industrial ecosystem. The automotive sector remains Morocco’s most important source of industrial export revenue, helping offset weaker performance in other sectors.

Vehicle manufacturing drives export expansion

The sharp rise in automotive exports was largely driven by exceptional growth in vehicle manufacturing. Exports from this segment increased by 60.6% year-on-year, reaching approximately $451 million in January 2026.

This increase reflects higher production levels at Morocco’s major assembly plants and strong demand from European markets, which remain the primary destination for Moroccan automotive exports. The country’s strategic location, close to Europe, allows manufacturers to benefit from shorter delivery times and competitive logistics costs.

In addition to vehicle assembly, Morocco’s automotive components sector continued to expand. Exports of electrical wiring systems, known as automotive cabling, rose by 9.6%, reaching approximately $511 million. These components are essential for modern vehicles, supporting power systems, safety features, and electronic controls.

The combined strength of vehicle manufacturing and component production highlights Morocco’s successful transition from a basic assembly base into a fully integrated automotive production hub.

Integrated supply chain strengthens Morocco’s competitiveness

Morocco’s automotive industry benefits from a highly developed supply chain that includes international manufacturers, specialized suppliers, and logistics providers. Industrial zones in Tangier, Kenitra, and Casablanca host major production facilities that serve global markets.

Local integration rates in automotive manufacturing now exceed 65%, meaning that a large portion of vehicle components are produced domestically. This allows Morocco to retain more added value within its economy while reducing reliance on imported parts.

The presence of global suppliers producing wiring systems, metal components, seating, and electronics has strengthened Morocco’s position as a competitive automotive manufacturing center. These investments have also supported job creation and technology transfer.

Morocco’s industrial strategy, which focuses on export-oriented manufacturing, continues to attract foreign investors seeking efficient and reliable production platforms.

Aerospace exports also show steady growth

Alongside automotive exports, Morocco’s aerospace sector also recorded positive growth. Aerospace exports increased by 8.7%, reaching more than $251 million in January 2026.

This growth was supported by a 17.2% increase in assembly-related exports, reflecting higher production activity in Morocco’s expanding aerospace manufacturing sector. However, exports of aircraft electrical wiring systems declined slightly by 5.9%, partially offsetting overall growth.

Despite this decline, the aerospace sector continues to play an important role in Morocco’s industrial diversification, contributing to export growth and strengthening the country’s global manufacturing profile.

Overall exports decline slightly as traditional sectors weaken

While automotive and aerospace exports expanded, other key export sectors recorded declines. As a result, Morocco’s total exports fell by 2.7% year-on-year, reaching approximately $3.56 billion in January 2026.

The decline was mainly due to reduced exports in traditional sectors such as phosphates, agriculture and food products, textiles, and electronics. These sectors remain vulnerable to fluctuations in global commodity prices and changing international demand.

Despite these challenges, the strong performance of industrial sectors such as automotive helped limit the overall decline in export revenues.

Trade deficit reaches $2.63 billion

Morocco’s trade deficit widened in January 2026, reaching approximately $2.63 billion, an increase of 5.1% compared with the same period in 2025.

This increase was mainly due to stable import levels combined with slightly lower overall exports. Imports rose by 0.4%, reaching approximately $6.19 billion, reflecting continued domestic demand for energy, equipment, and consumer goods.

The export coverage ratio, which measures the extent to which exports offset imports, declined to 57.5%, highlighting ongoing structural challenges in Morocco’s trade balance.

Automotive sector remains central to Morocco’s economic strategy

The automotive sector continues to play a critical role in Morocco’s industrial and economic development. Its strong export performance demonstrates the effectiveness of the country’s long-term strategy to develop high-value manufacturing industries.

Morocco has become Africa’s largest automotive producer and one of the key suppliers to European markets. Continued investments in manufacturing facilities, supplier networks, and industrial infrastructure are expected to support further growth in the coming years.

As global demand for vehicles evolves, particularly with the transition toward electric and hybrid models, Morocco’s automotive sector is well positioned to remain a major driver of export growth, job creation, and economic resilience.