馃嚥馃嚘MoroccoNorth Africa
Fitch Solutions forecasts Morocco's economic growth drivers for 2026
via Le Matin3 min read
BMI, a Fitch Solutions subsidiary, maintains its forecast for Morocco's economic growth at 4.1% in 2026 and 2027, a moderate slowdown from 4.6% in 2025 but higher than the 2.6% average of the last decade. Growth will primarily be driven by investment and household consumption, with net exports having a moderately negative effect. Investment growth is expected to slow after high performance in 2024 and 2025 but remain around 7%, supported by transport and logistics infrastructure spending for the 2030 World Cup, and public enterprise investments in energy and infrastructure. OCP plans to invest 25 to 30 billion dirhams annually until 2027 to boost fertilizer production and renewable energy projects. Private companies are also expected to increase their investment. Bank credit to non-financial private companies accelerated significantly in April 2026, its fastest real growth in over five years, benefiting from lower interest rates. Agricultural value added, which was 8.1% of GDP in 2025, is another growth driver for 2026. Favorable weather led to over 120% year-on-year growth in wheat and barley production, partially offsetting supply chain disruptions and cost pressures from the Middle East conflict. Household consumption is projected to grow by about 3.4% in 2026, higher than the long-term average of 2.3%, despite geopolitical tensions and inflationary pressures. Improved weather and anticipated agricultural employment are expected to support household incomes. Other indicato
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Must ReadCasablanca is hosting the fourth edition of the Women Summit, an event focused on integrating African women's leadership into a continental geopolitical and economic project. Following three previous editions held under the Honorary Presidency of Her Royal Highness Princess Lalla Meryem, this year's summit emphasizes the African Atlantic space as a strategic lever for inclusive and sustainable growth. The summit directly links the role of women with the Royal Atlantic Initiative, which aims to strengthen cooperation, connectivity, and shared development among African Atlantic countries. Discussions will cover women's leadership in governance and public policy, artificial intelligence and digital transformation, the blue economy and Atlantic opportunities, South-South cooperation, access to finance, economic inclusion of women and youth, and skills development. The organizers believe that women are key drivers of growth, innovation, and sustainable transformation on the continent. Confirmed speakers include Zita Oligui Nguema, First Lady of Gabon; Haja Mamaka Bility, Minister of State in the President's cabinet; Ryad Mezzour, Moroccan Minister of Industry and Trade; and S.E. Sheikha Bint Bishr, global expert in digital transformation and founder of BinBishr Global Advisory. Moroccan representatives include Anouar Alaoui Isma茂li, Director General of Maroc PME, and Sa茂d Jabrani, Director General of Tamwilcom, alongside Samira Khamlichi, President of the Club of Women Administrat
Ismael Saibari is reportedly close to joining Bayern Munich, with Foot Mercato and Fabrizio Romano confirming a verbal agreement with PSV Eindhoven for a 55 million euro transfer. The Moroccan international, who had an exceptional season with PSV Eindhoven scoring 19 goals and providing 9 assists in 37 matches, is expected to undergo a medical in the United States, where the World Cup is currently taking place, before finalizing a contract until 2031. His recent performances for the national team, including a goal against Brazil, have also contributed to the accelerated transfer. Meanwhile, 18-year-old Ayyoub Bouaddi, a midfielder for LOSC, has also garnered significant attention from top European clubs. His impressive performance in his first World Cup match against Brazil, showcasing maturity, technical quality, and ability to control the game, has attracted interest from Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, Arsenal, Liverpool, and Chelsea. Despite the growing interest, Bouaddi stated to "The Athletic" that he is currently focused on the World Cup and his team, deferring discussions about his future.
Fouzi Lekjaa, President of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation FRMF, has responded to claims of Morocco's influence within the Confederation of African Football CAF and FIFA. Lekjaa stated that Morocco's presence is a result of hard work and performance, not hidden influence, emphasizing that there are no Moroccan officials in CAF and no Moroccan chairs any commissions managing African football. He highlighted the progress of Moroccan football, citing the Atlas Lions' performance in the 2022 World Cup, successes in youth and women's football, and futsal. Lekjaa also underscored the structural development of Moroccan football, referencing the Mohammed VI Football Complex and the Mohammed VI Football Academy, which has produced national team players like Nayef Aguerd and Azzedine Ounahi. Regarding dual-nationality players, Lekjaa asserted that their choice to represent Morocco is driven by competitive sports projects, consistent participation in major competitions, and quality infrastructure, rather than financial incentives. He noted that players like Lamine Yamal make personal choices. Lekjaa also discussed Morocco's preparations for the 2030 World Cup, co-hosted with Spain and Portugal, envisioning balanced development across all regions of the country. He concluded that Moroccan football's strength lies in its forward-looking vision, modern infrastructure, effective training, and sporting achievements.