Morocco: a vital African hub and a land of opportunity
In the long term, the AfCFTA could transform African economies by removing 90% of tariffs and promoting free trade reforms. According to a World Bank report, these measures could generate $450 billion in additional revenues by 2035, and lift 30 million people out of extreme poverty. What's more, these economic benefits include a significant 81% increase in trade within the continent, with countries such as Côte d'Ivoire and Zimbabwe set to record 14% income growth.
But beyond the numbers, this agreement symbolizes a vision of African unity to tackle today's economic challenges, including the impacts of COVID-19, and reduce dependence on external markets. This new dynamic definitively lays the foundations for a more resilient Africa, ready to secure its sovereignty and create prosperity through trade.
Strategic gateway to Africa
In this context of continental transformation, Morocco stands out as a key player. The kingdom, which is in the midst of accelerating its infrastructure and energy transition projects, is positioning itself not only as a regional driving force, but also as a strategic gateway to Africa for international companies, particularly French ones.
Indeed, with its extensive diplomatic relations and recognized political stability, Morocco has become an essential hub for foreign investors. The country's ambitions are supported by large-scale projects such as the extension of the high-speed rail link between Tangier and Marrakech, the expansion of the freeway between Tiznit and Dakhla, and the development of the strategic ports of Tangier Med, Dakhla and Nador. These modern infrastructures aim to strengthen connections between Morocco and the rest of the African continent, while positioning the country as a gateway for foreign companies wishing to penetrate sub-Saharan markets.
A key market for French companies
French companies, especially SMEs and ETIs, see Morocco as fertile land for their activities. In 2024, Morocco's share of total foreign direct investment (FDI) announced in Africa has almost doubled compared to 2019. Indeed, major French players such as NGE are actively involved in these structuring projects. For example, NGE has been selected to deploy Morocco's high-speed rail line. In addition, the country is committed to developing an “African Silicon Valley” around the Mohammed VI Polytechnic University to nurture and train a qualified elite, a major asset for Morocco and international companies. In addition to local opportunities, Morocco is also seen as an ideal platform for accessing African markets. King Mohammed VI has intensified diplomatic relations with many sub-Saharan countries, promoting a vision of win-win partnerships. Moroccan banks, such as Attijariwafa Bank and Bank of Africa, play a central role in this strategy, financing multiple projects across the continent and offering crucial financial support to foreign entrepreneurs.
In front of the world's eyes
French companies are not the only ones investing heavily in Morocco. China, now one of the country's biggest foreign investors, and the United Arab Emirates are also in the race. As a result, competition to establish a foothold in this promising market is intense, proving Morocco's strategic place in the global economic landscape.
Morocco is one of the countries that today embodies the future of Africa, combining political stability, economic modernization, energy transition and regional/global integration. Over the years, the country has become an essential partner for French and international companies. As Africa unites to face the challenges of tomorrow, sometimes even to change the established world order, Morocco is leading the way.
Sources :
https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zone_de_libre-%C3%A9change_continentale_africaine
