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Stellantis launches new circular economy center in Casablanca
via Le Matin2 min read
Stellantis has launched a new circular economy center in Casablanca. The announcement was made on May 5, 2026, by Le Matin.ma. This initiative aims to promote sustainable practices within the automotive industry.
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A new report, the 2026 Labor Force Survey from the HCP, reveals that the Moroccan labor market experiences greater pressure than its 10.8% unemployment rate suggests. The survey indicates that a substantial 22.5% of the workforce is underutilized, a figure that encompasses not only the unemployed but also those who are underemployed and inactive.
Morocco's Ministry of Health and Social Protection and AstraZeneca have signed a strategic agreement during the GITEX Future Health Africa - Morocco exhibition. This partnership aims to enhance cooperation in critical areas such as chronic disease screening, the development of digital solutions incorporating artificial intelligence, and the use of real-world data to improve medical decision-making. The agreement also includes strengthening the skills of healthcare professionals and expanding the "Heart Health in Africa" initiative, which focuses on cardiovascular and renal disease management. This collaboration supports Morocco's goal of consolidating its health sovereignty and developing its research and innovation capabilities. Minister Amine Tehraoui noted that Morocco is undergoing a significant transformation of its healthcare system under the Royal Project for the generalization of social protection and universal health coverage. Rami Scandar, AstraZeneca's President for the Middle East and North Africa region, affirmed the group's long-term commitment to Morocco through support for initiatives based on scientific innovation, digital technologies, and artificial intelligence.
Stellantis began 2026 with significantly improved indicators, achieving 38.1 billion euros in revenue, a 6% increase, and returning to a net profit of 0.4 billion euros. This marks a gradual return to profitability after a challenging 2025. The current operating income reached 1 billion euros, with a 2.5% margin, showing notable year-over-year progress driven by improved industrial execution and cost management. Industrial free cash flow remained negative at -1.9 billion euros, partly due to Q1 seasonality and exceptional charges from 2025, but the deficit was reduced by 37%. Stellantis strengthened its financial fundamentals by issuing 5 billion euros in hybrid notes, increasing liquidity to 44.1 billion euros, which is 28% of annual revenue. Commercial performance was generally positive, with North America leading with 6% sales growth, particularly for the Ram brand. Europe also progressed, supported by a diverse offering of thermal, hybrid, and electric powertrains, and maintained leadership in commercial vehicles. South America held its dominant position despite market share erosion, while Asia-Pacific saw a slight decline. The Middle East and Africa region showed resilience with stable sales and improved relative performance in a declining market. Stellantis is focusing on improving quality, production, and customer experience, with new models launched last year contributing to volume increases. The company plans to launch 10 new vehicles and six restyled models in 2026,
Must ReadSince the conflict began on February 28 between Iran, the United States, and Israel over the Middle East and the Strait of Hormuz, scenarios of escalation and de-escalation have dominated the debate. Frédéric Encel, a political risk consultant and professor of international relations, analyzes what this war reveals about regional power balances. He discusses the power dynamic between Washington and Tehran, the centrality of the nuclear issue, Hormuz's strategic vulnerability, and remaining negotiation margins. Encel believes that a lasting peace is unlikely due to political obstacles, including Iran's refusal to adhere to the 1968 nuclear non-proliferation treaty, the absence of diplomatic relations between Tehran and Washington since 1979, Iran's non-recognition of Israel, and persistent tensions in Lebanon. He states that the impediments are not only military but also political, diplomatic, and doctrinal. Instead of a negotiated peace, he foresees a minimal stabilization dictated by power dynamics, aiming to contain the conflict's effects rather than resolve it. Encel suggests a prolonged ceasefire is a more plausible outcome, albeit an imperfect and fragile one, susceptible to incidents and violations. He notes that some ceasefires have lasted decades despite repeated breaches. While Iran retains some leverage, such as missiles and drones, its overall capacity for harm is limited compared to the United States. Encel highlights the significant weakening of Iran's regional p