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Rabat – The United States and Morocco are seeking to breathe new life into their two-decade-old free trade agreement (FTA), with a focus on boosting agricultural exports, attracting investments, and fostering cooperation in key sectors like autos and textiles.
This week’s meeting in Washington D.C., between Moroccan Minister of Industry and Trade Ryad Mezzour and US Deputy Trade Representative Bryant Trick marked the eighth session of the joint committee overseeing the agreement.
Both sides acknowledged the FTA’s successes but highlighted areas for improvement. Minister Mezzour emphasized Morocco’s potential as a strategic partner for the US, particularly under the recently passed Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).
“Morocco can be a gateway for the US to Africa and a reliable link in building resilient supply chains,” Mezzour stated, citing sectors like electric vehicles, renewable energy, and agriculture.
His comments resonated with US officials who see Morocco’s improved business climate and political stability as attractive to American companies.
Discussions focused on overcoming non-tariff barriers that currently limit market access for Moroccan agricultural products like poultry and certain fruits and vegetables.
The textile industry was also on the agenda, with both sides acknowledging the challenges posed by Asian competitors. Cooperation in the automotive sector, particularly streamlining customs procedures, was another area of discussion.
Ambassador Youssef Amrani of Morocco underscored the importance of the FTA in fostering closer business ties between the two countries. He expressed Morocco’s commitment to deepening the partnership and promoting investment.
The meetings come amidst a renewed focus on US-Africa relations. Morocco, with its strategic location and growing economy, is well-positioned to benefit from this shift.
Whether the revamped FTA can unlock its full potential remains to be seen, but this week’s discussions mark a positive step forward.
