Casablanca – Morocco’s aerospace sector is undergoing a remarkable transformation, currently encompassing approximately 142 companies and employing around 17,000 people. With an impressive turnover of about $2 billion in exports, the country was ranked 36th globally and third in the Middle East and Africa for aerospace in 2020. This growth trajectory reflects Morocco’s strategic efforts to establish itself as a key player in the global aerospace landscape.
The Moroccan government has been instrumental in supporting this development through various initiatives aimed at attracting foreign investment. Significant investments in infrastructure, including the establishment of aerospace clusters like the Midparc Free Zone near Casablanca, have been crucial in nurturing the industry’s growth. This free zone is designed to facilitate the establishment and expansion of aerospace companies, making it an attractive destination for international investors.
In recent reports, the Office of Foreign Exchange under Morocco’s Ministry of Finance indicated that aviation sector exports exceeded $1.7 billion in the first eight months of this year, reflecting an impressive increase of 21.2% compared to the same period last year. This growth can be attributed to a 33.3% rise in assembly sales, which reached $1.1 billion, while revenues from electrical wiring systems were around $600 million, marking a 2.7% increase.
In addition to infrastructure, the government has prioritized the enhancement of facilities to draw maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) companies to its Technopark in Casablanca and the Mohammed VI Tanger-Tech City, currently under development by the China Communications Construction Company (CCCC). These initiatives aim to create a robust ecosystem for the aerospace sector, further solidifying Morocco’s position in the market.
Significant investments from international companies underline Morocco’s growing aerospace capabilities. In 2018, French aircraft manufacturer Daher invested approximately $16 million in its third plant located in the Tangier Free Zone, supporting production for major international aerospace programs and catering to clients such as Airbus and Dassault. Moreover, the Belgian Orizio Group, operating in Morocco since 2012 through its subsidiary Sabca Maroc, recently announced an investment of over $18 million for a new 16,000 square meter facility in Nouaceur. This facility will host assembly lines for Pilatus, Airbus, and Dassault, demonstrating the confidence international companies have in Morocco’s aerospace sector.
In 2022, a joint venture named Maintenance Aero Maroc (MAM) was established between Morocco, Lockheed Martin, and the Orizio Group to provide MRO services for the Moroccan Air Force’s F-16C/Ds and C-130H Hercules. This partnership includes the construction of a 15,000 square meter MRO and Upgrade center at Benslimane Airport, expected to create up to 300 jobs, thereby enhancing local employment opportunities.
In June 2023, Pratt & Whitney Canada announced the launch of Pratt & Whitney Maroc, planning to build a new 130,000 square foot facility in Casablanca’s Midparc Free Zone. This facility will adhere to state-of-the-art efficiency standards, employing up to 200 staff and set to open in 2025, thus bolstering the company’s presence in the region.
As Morocco’s aerospace industry continues to evolve, its robust growth, strategic investments, and strong partnerships position the country as a significant hub for aerospace manufacturing and innovation on the global stage. With ongoing support from the government and international collaborations, Morocco is set to enhance its role in the aerospace sector, paving the way for future advancements and opportunities.
