Rabat – Morocco’s draft Finance Bill for 2027 earmarks nearly MAD 1.8 billion ($183 million) to support public audiovisual services and MAD 247 million ($25.1 million) for press institutions, as the government seeks to modernize the media sector, strengthen professional journalism, and improve the quality of content available to the public.
The allocations are part of the government’s broader strategy to reinforce public media, support a pluralistic and responsible press, invest in professional training, and adapt the sector to digital transformation, according to the explanatory memorandum accompanying the draft Finance Bill.
The government plans to continue supporting public institutions operating in audiovisual media, news, and cinema. It also intends to review the specifications governing audiovisual outlets to strengthen the presence of values in national programming and promote Moroccan cultural and media production.
The proposed measures come alongside plans to establish a legal framework to protect younger generations from harmful or unlawful online activities. The government intends to prevent children under 15 from accessing social media platforms and dangerous electronic games.
Investment in media training and regional services
The draft budget also provides funding to develop the skills of future media professionals and strengthen specialized training institutions.
The Higher Institute of Audiovisual and Cinema Professions is set to receive an operating grant of MAD 8.06 million ($820,000), while the annual investment grant for the Higher Institute of Information and Communication is expected to reach MAD 8.61 million ($876,000).
The government also plans to gradually operationalize an annex of the Higher Institute of Audiovisual and Cinema Professions in Dakhla. The initiative aims to expand training opportunities and prepare professionals for careers in audiovisual production and related fields.
At the regional level, the government intends to continue establishing regional directorates for the communication sector and set up regional media and communication centers in Fez and Errachidia. The measures are intended to bring services closer to citizens and support the implementation of advanced regionalization.
Adapting the media sector to digital transformation
Institutional reform is another component of the government’s plans for 2027. The draft budget provides for the implementation of new responsibilities established under Decree No. 2.24.1143, which defines the organization and remit of the communication sector.
These responsibilities cover emerging strategic areas, including the video game industry, digital media, and new technologies, reflecting the need to adapt regulatory and institutional structures to changes in the media landscape.
The government also plans to continue supporting foreign press organizations accredited in Morocco and strengthen its institutional communication strategy to expand the country’s international media presence.
Supporting professional and pluralistic journalism
The explanatory memorandum links the proposed measures to the Royal guidelines calling for public media to contribute to national cohesion and strengthen Morocco’s international standing.
It also places the sector’s priorities within the framework of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 16, which focuses on effective institutions, transparency, and access to information.
The government considers professional, pluralistic, and high-quality journalism an important component of institutional development and the broader effort to build a social state.
The proposed allocations combine direct support for media institutions with investment in training, regional infrastructure, and regulatory reform, as Morocco seeks to address the sector’s evolving technological and professional needs.
