Agadir – Morocco is stepping up efforts to reduce its growing trade deficit with a five-point strategy, aiming to boost exports and diversify trade, the Secretary of State for Foreign Trade, Omar Hejira, told the House of Representatives on Monday.
Hejira emphasized that the structure of Moroccan imports is essential, requiring measures to strengthen exports and sustainably reduce the trade imbalance.
He added that the trade deficit should be understood in the context of Morocco’s economic dynamics and ongoing structural investments, highlighting the current projects including roads, ports, airports, and stadiums – particularly in preparation for international sporting events such as the Africa Cup of Nations and the future World Cup 2030.
“Nearly 62% of Moroccan imports are essential,” Hejira noted. This includes 13% energy products, 24% capital goods, 21% raw materials, and 4% agricultural products, mainly cereals. Which are crucial to the functioning of the national economy and the development of strategic sectors such as automotive and shipbuilding industries, which rely on a steady supply of equipment and inputs from abroad.
The five pillars of Morocco’s export strategy
- Product diversification
Morocco currently relies heavily on major export industries. In this regard, the government aims to expand the variety of goods and services exported. This includes promoting high-value-added products, processed goods, and technologically advanced manufacturing.
Through the diversification of products, Morocco can expand its focus to include new markets and reduce overdependence on traditional exports like phosphates, textiles, and automotive parts.
- Market diversification
Nearly 70% of Moroccan exports go to European countries, mainly France and Spain. This concentration puts the economy at external risks such as changes in EU demand or trade barriers.
The government seeks to target new markets in Africa, Asia, and the Americas, reducing reliance on Europe and creating a more strong and resilient export base.
- Direct support for exporters
The government plans to assist around 400 new companies by providing access to foreign markets. Support measures include export training, financial assistance, guidance on compliance with international standards, and facilitation of trade missions.
This pillar targets small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that may lack the resources to export independently, helping them to scale up and compete internationally.
- Innovation and competitiveness enhancement
Morocco is promoting innovation and productivity improvements within key sectors to strengthen export performance. This includes adopting new technologies and improving product quality to meet international standards.
The goal is to make Moroccan products more competitive globally and move up the value chain, particularly in sectors like automotive and agro-industry.
- Logistics and trade facilitation
Many aspects such as logistics, customs procedures, and trade infrastructure are crucial to address for the sake of reducing export costs. Morocco plans to enhance port, airport, and transport connectivity, streamline export documentation, and support digital trade platforms.
This pillar ensures that goods can reach global markets faster and at lower cost, boosting the attractiveness of Moroccan exports.
According to the recent data provided by the government, the trade deficit reached approximately MAD 270 billion (USD 29.4 billion) in 2025. The government’s five-point export strategy aims to gradually reduce this trade imbalance through focusing on new products, markets, assisting exporters, innovation and logistic improvement.
