Agadir – Morocco’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) remain optimistic about their prospects over the next 12 months, with 87% expressing confidence in their business outlook, according to Mastercard’s latest SME Confidence Index.
The multi-market study, which measures the sentiment, priorities, and growth outlook of SMEs across Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, found that Moroccan businesses are drawing confidence from a growing domestic market while increasingly investing in digital capabilities to support future growth.
The report shows that 78% of Moroccan SMEs believe adopting digital and online payment solutions is essential for helping their businesses grow faster and more efficiently.
“Entrepreneurial businesses across the region continue to demonstrate adaptability and ambition. As they navigate change, their growing focus on digital capabilities and financial access is opening up new pathways for sustainable growth, enabling them to compete more effectively in an increasingly connected and dynamic marketplace,” said Gabriel Swanepoel, Division President for Africa at Mastercard.
Business expansion remains a key priority for Moroccan SMEs. Nearly half (49%) said maintaining and growing their businesses is their main objective over the coming year, while 47% are already pursuing opportunities to enter new markets.
Mohamed Benomar, Mastercard’s Country Manager for Northwest Africa, said Moroccan businesses are increasingly embracing digital transformation.
“SMEs in Morocco are showing a clear intent to evolve and grow. Their increasing emphasis on digital payments, security, and workforce development reflects a strong readiness to participate more fully in the digital economy. As businesses look to scale, this focus on building capabilities and adopting the right tools will be critical in unlocking new opportunities and strengthening long-term resilience,” he said.
Despite operating in a challenging economic environment, Moroccan SMEs remain positive. Seventy-nine percent of respondents identified inflation as the biggest challenge, yet 66% described the current economic situation as good.
Among the factors contributing most to business performance, 33% cited Morocco’s growing domestic market, while 32% pointed to political stability.
Mastercard’s study also indicates that businesses are accelerating their digital transformation. Although 73% of SMEs continue to operate primarily through physical locations, many are investing in secure and convenient payment technologies.
