3. The economic development of Morocco is based on appropriate
strategic plans
« (…)As far as strategy is concerned, these infrastructure projects
and plans have enabled us to upgrade our economy, boost
productivity, enhance competitiveness, increase public investment,
and create integrated, regional development hubs.
Our country now has a clear, stable framework for economic
development, making it possible for our economy to withstand
the adverse effects of the global financial crisis. Similarly, Morocco
now enjoys an enhanced status as an attractive destination
for productive investment, and as an important regional and
international trade hub (…)”.
Extract from the speech of H.M. King Mohammed VI on
Throne Day, 30 July 2010
4. 06 / 07 INVEST IN MOROCCO
Summary
Europe
08 / 09
Morocco in figures
10 / 11
Geostrategic position
Morocco
12 / 13
Moroccan economy
in full expansion
14 / 15
Social and economic
reforms
5. 28 / 29
Sectional plans
40 / 41
Qualified human resources
16 / 17
Business-friendly environment
20 / 21
World class
infrastructure
42 / 43
Life in Morocco
44 / 45
Sustainable development policy
46 / 47
Moroccan Investment
Development Agency
6. 08 / 09 INVEST IN MOROCCO
Morocco in figures
Geographical situation
Area 710 850 square kilometers
Position North Africa 14 km from Europe
Climate Mediterranean
Time zone GMT (GMT+1 in summer)
Capital Rabat
Principal cities Casablanca, Marrakech, Tangiers, Agadir, Fez,
Oujda, Laâyoune, Dakhla
Demography
Population 31 million inhabitants
Density 67.59 inhabitants/ Sq. kilomete
Active population 50,6%
Urban population 50,9%
Life expectancy 72 years
Official language Arabic
Commonly used languages French, Spanish, English.
Institutions
Institutional system Constitutional democratic and social monarchy
Administrative distribution 16 regions
Currency
Moroccan Dirham 1 MAD
Exchange rate (average for 2009)
1 US Dollar 8,1 MADs
1 Euro 11,3 MADs
Economic growth indicators 2009
GDP 730,5 billion MADs (about 63,5 billion €)
GDP/inhabitant 22 095 MADs (1 921 €)
Growth of GDP in 2009 4,9%
Average growth 5% (over the past 5 years)
Rate of inflation 1,0%
Average rate of inflation 1,9% (over the past 10 years)
Data : Year 2009
Source : High Commissioner’s Officer for Planning (HCP), Morocco
7. Tetouan
Tangiers
Al Hoceima
Larache
Fez Oujda
Rabat
Casablanca
Essaouira
Marrakech
Ouarzazate
Agadir
Laayoun
Dakhla
Lagouira
8. 10 / 11 INVEST IN MOROCCO
Geostrategic location
Opening to a market of 1,3 billion
consumers.
• Morocco: regional hub
Located 14 kilometers from the shores of Europe, the
Europe country is washed by two seas, the Mediterranean in the
North and the Atlantic all along the West coast. This has
enabled it to place itself at the crossroads of the main
international trade routes linking America, Africa, Europe
and the Middle East.
An obvious asset to incorporate your investment into
Morocco the big international trade flows and increase the
competitiveness of your company by simplifying logistics.
Flying time from Casablanca airport :
Madrid 1hour and 35mn
Paris 2hour and 45mn
London 3hour and 30mn ASIA
New York 8hour and 15mn uNITED STATES
EurOPE
MOrOCCO
Sailing time from the port of Tangiers : AFrICA
Marseille (France) 36 hours
Barcelona (Spain) 24 hours
Genoa (Italy) 44 hours
Crossing time from Tangier Med port :
Algeciras or Tarifa 35 minutes by Ferry
(Spain)
Morocco, a founding member of the World Trade
Organization, is also a member and/or associated to many
multilateral and regional organizations.
9. • Open to the outside
world
Agreement of Association
and Advanced Status :
Morocco – European Union
As it accounts for almost two-thirds of the
Kingdom’s foreign trade the European union
is our largest economic partner. Morocco is
among the top Mediterranean countries in
the field of financial cooperation with the
European union with a sizable commitment
of 290 million € in 2009 as part of the
support projects included in the National
Indicative Program, PIN-Morocco, for «With 750 French companies, Morocco
the 2007-2010period. is the preferred destination for French
investment in the Africa/Middle East
region»
Free Trade Agreement (FTA): Source: French Embassy, Morocco, June 2010
Morocco – United States
The Free Trade Agreement with the united
States (Moroccan’s 2th trading partner after
the European union) forms part of the
controlled global openness strategy of the
Moroccan economy and its insertion into
the world economy. Commercial exchanges
between Morocco and the united States
have more than doubled since the FTA was
implemented in 2006.
Since October 2008, Morocco has
been linked to the EU by an advanced
Agadir Agreement 2004: status.
Morocco – Tunisia, Egypt and
Jordan
The Agadir Agreement, implemented
in 2007, has enabled member States to
increase the volume of their trade by
almost 45% .
Agreement: Morocco – Turkey
Morocco - Turkey exchanges have continued
to grow and according to 2009 figures they
have reached an annual volume of 900 million
dollars (812,5 million €) versus 260 million
dollars (234,5 million €) in 2003.
Morocco is also linked to numerous African
countries through trade and economic
cooperation agreements.
10. 12 / 13 INVEST IN MOROCCO
Moroccan economy
in full expansion
«Morocco’s recent performance is sustained by a more
diversified economy, a consolidated budgetary situation
and a sound financial sector. Morocco is well positioned
to pursue its development despite the difficult world
situation».
IMF report, July 2008.
• A diversified economy
As it has diversified, the Moroccan economy
has achieved a remarkable performance in Average export in Millions of €
the primary (agriculture, mining), secondary
(industry) and tertiary (services, tourism,
offshoring) sectors.
14 806
Similarly, Moroccan exports are more and more
impressive and diversified : from an average
8 283
of 8,2 billion € p.a. for the 2000-2004 period,
exports rose to 14,8 billion € p.a. for the
2005 - 2009 period, i.e. an increase of 78%. 2000 - 2004 2005 - 2009
Source: Moroccan Foreign Exchange Office
Structure of GDP 2009
Primary acti-
vities
18,1%
Tertiary
activities Secondary
58,9% activities
23,3%
Source: High Commissioner’s Office for Planning (HCP)
11. Rate of average growth of GDP (%)
• A strong and stable 5% growth
over the past 10 years
For a decade, the Moroccan economy has shown
an upward trend in its growth rate, due mainly
to the dynamism of some sectors: Tourism,
Industry, Telecommunications, Infrastructure,
Services, Agriculture,…
Source: Moroccan High Commissioner’s
Office for Planning (HCP)
• Inflation controlled at less than 2%
Average rate of inflation (annual slide)
For more than 10 years, Morocco has succeeded
in reconciling economic development and
control inflation. Purchasing power has thus
improved by 4,6% annually.
• Consolidated budgetary
equilibrium
Source: Moroccan High Commissioner’s Office
for Planning (HCP)
Such economic performance has enabled
Morocco to pursue the consolidation of the
government budget and contain the budgetary Budgetary deficit (% of GDP)
deficit. 2000-2005 2006-2009
-0,7%
-3,7%
Source: Economy and Finance Ministry
In 2009 Morocco registered the highest growth rate
in North Africa: +4,9%
Economic report on Africa 2010 by the United Nations Economic Commission for
Africa.
12. 14 / 15 INVEST IN MOROCCO
Social and economic
reforms
Morocco, a kingdom more than 12 centuries old,
is at a crossroad of civilizations combining its own
strong identity with openness and modernity with
its rich religious and cultural heritage. It is a country
governed by principles of tolerance and respect for
other spiritual and cultural communities. under the
impetus of His Majesty King Mohammed VI who
acceded to the Throne on 31 July 1999, the Kingdom
has entered a new era of reforms and activity, thus
creating a political, economic and social dynamic
enabling the country to evolve with determination
and ambition in the new international context of the
21st century.
With a population where 70% is younger than 25,
Morocco is a country ready to seize the challenge of
globalization and it maintains with vigor the pace of
reform and change.
Students in the amphitheatre of the Ain Sebaa University – Casablanca
• Morocco on the move
> Some important reforms from the past 10 years:
• Consolidation of democracy with two parliamentary elections held in 2002 &
2007 in compliance with the Constitution ;
• Reform of the electoral law in 2006, and new laws on political parties ;
• Implementation of the new Family Law in 2003 ;
• Reform of the press code and creation of the High Commission on Audiovisual
Communication (HACA) ;
• Implementation of a new Education charter ;
• Launch of the National Initiative for Human Development (INDH);
• Human rights: Reorganization of the Consultative Council of Human Rights
(CCDH) and establishment of the Equity and reconciliation Board (IEr).
14. 16 / 17 INVEST IN MOROCCO
Business-friendly
environment
Morocco has been granted the Investment grade
category from the agency Standard & Poor’s,
obtained an advanced status with the EU, and
joined the OECD Investment Committee.
Investment Grade Standard and Poor’s for Morocco in 2010.
Principal reforms enacted for improving the
business climate:
• Reforms to encourage
• Simplification of administrative procedures ; competitiveness
• Reinforcement of the business law system ;
During the course of the past decade, Morocco
• Improvement of regulations transparency ; has done considerable work in order to improve
• Development and modernization of financial markets ; the business climate, making it more favorable to
both national and international investors.
• Creation of the National Commission of Business
Capacity building has led to the consolidation of
Environment ;
the attractiveness of the country and its status as
• Creation of the Central Anti-Corruption Authority ; a top destination for foreign investors.
• Reinforcement of the Moroccan Intellectual and
Commercial Property Agency; • Morocco is the second Arab
• P r o m o t i o n o f t h e c h a r t e r c o n c e r n i n g t h e country to become member of
companies’ social responsibility ; the OECD Investment Committee
• Creation of the Moroccan Investment Development
Agency (AMDI).
and signatory of the OECD
declaration on international
investment and multinational
corporations (Nov. 2009)
Morocco, which has signed to join 41 other countries,
is committed to establish an environment open to
international investment and to promote responsible
investment by multinational corporations.
Investment in Morocco is controlled by the blueprint law
N° 18-95 dated 8 November 1995, called the Investment
Charter, to encourage international investment. Any
project can thus benefit from the same advantages without
any discrimination among national and international
investors.
The Tangiers Med Port
15. • Attractive incentives
Moroccan and foreign investors could sign a contract
or an investment agreement with the government.
These agreements open their way to specific
particularly attractive incentives.
Hassan II Economic and Social
Development Fund
This mechanism for promoting investment in certain
industrial sectors, set up in September 2000, consists
in bringing financial assistance to projects for the
acquisition of the land, construction or the purchase
of buildings.
The amount of investment required must be greater
than 5 million MAD before tax (about 450 000 €).
The amount of investment in capital goods must
be greater than 2,5 million MAD before tax
(about
227 000 €).
Investment Promotion Fund - FPI
The Tangiers Med Port
With the aim of reducing the cost of investment, the
Fiscal and customs measures: FPI grants companies, having an investment plan
that satisfies certain conditions, a partial amount of
• Exemption from company income tax on exports for 5
the land cost and the expenses involving external
years and a reduction of 17,5% after that ;
infrastructure and training.
• Exemption from import duties applicable to capital
goods, materials and tools necessary to complete
projects and imported directly or on behalf of the
company for investment projects greater than or equal
to 200 million MAD (about 18 million € ) ; Article 7.1 of the Finance law
• Exemption from value-added tax applicable to imports under this law investors take advantage of the
of capital goods, materials and tools necessary to exemption from imported duties and VAT for
complete projects and imported directly or on behalf importing capital goods, materials and tools
of the company during the first 36 months of business, necessary to complete their investment program.
for investment projects greater than or equal to 200 This exemption follows the signing of an
million MAD (about 18 million €). investment agreement with the Government and
the commitment to invest more than 200 million
MAD (about 18 million €).
16. 18 / 19 INVEST IN MOROCCO - Business-friendly environment
Morocco is the country in North Africa which
has received the biggest direct foreign
investment over the 2000-2009 period
(18 billion dollars).
Source: UNCTAD
• Institutions to serve investors
Morocco has set up a framework of institutions in order to support
investors projects.
> The Moroccan Investment
Development Agency - AMDI
AMDI offers a free professional public service to all investors who
who could therefore use a wide international network and a range of
institutional partnerships with all Moroccan administrations and private
operators.
> Investment Commission - CI
AMDI undertakes preparatory work for the CI as part of the Technical
Preparation and Monitoring Committee for investment projects under
the conventional system.
under the leadership of the Prime Minister, the commission has for a task
to :
• approve investment agreements and contracts requiring a contribution
from the Government ;
• implement all measures aimed at improving the investment
environment of the country ;
• rule to clear blockages to the completion of investment projects.
> Regional Investment Centers - CRI
CrIs have greatly improved and facilitated the investment process.
Located in 16 regions, they aim at decentralizing and simplifying
procedures through providing a single local interlocutor at the regional
level.
CrIs consist of:
• 2 counters: one to assist the creation of companies ;
• And the other to assist the investors.
Casanearshore, Casablanca
17. «I believe that what has finally struck me is that the capacity for
doing business has greatly expanded in Morocco …
Morocco has seen its position improve quite considerably and
therefore it attracts foreign investment capital.»
Dominique Strauss Kahn,
2009 – Head of the International Monetary Fund.
Evolution of average net flow of incoming FDI
(US$ million/year)
2 125
1 384
725
390
1990-1994 1995-1999 2000-2004 2005-2009
Source UNCTAD
Technopolis, Rabat
• FDI: Leading country in
North Africa
Distribution of FDIs per industry in 2009
Over the period 1999-2009, Morocco attracted
Holding Companies: 2% Trade: 2%
almost uS$18 billion in FDI (cf. uNCTAD Insurance: 2%
Transport: 3%
2009).
Other Services: 5%
Industry: 8% Real Estate: 29%
In 2009, 5 sectors attracted more than 90% of Tourism: 17%
Morocco’s FDIs real estate, banking, tourism, Telecom: 15%
telecom and industry.
Source: Moroccan Foreign Exchange Office
Europe - major economic partner - represented
70% of FDIs in 2009.
Distribution of FDI’s per country of origin in 2009
Since 2002, Arab countries have continued to
increase their FDIs and at the end of 2009 they Italy: 3% Saudi Arabia: 2%
United States : 3% Jordan: 3%
represented nearly a quarter of all FDIs. Germany: 3%
Portugal: 7%
Great Britain: 3%
Switzerland: 4% France: 37%
United Arab Emirates: 3%
Spain: 8%
Kuwait: 18%
Source: Moroccan Foreign Exchange Office
18. 20 / 21 INVEST IN MOROCCO
World class
infrastructure
«Over the period 2008-2012, Morocco plans to strengthen its
transport infrastructure by launching many large projects with
an estimated investment volume of 120 billion DH (11 billion €).»
Karim Ghellab, Equipment and Transportation Minister.
• Transport infrastructure:
A national network linked
to the international one
For more than a decade, Morocco has been investing
in the development of its transports infrastructure.
Today, the Kingdom possesses world class facilities,
which interlink in the best and most efficient way
all the regions of the country and connect with the
rest of the world through its sizable and perpetually
developing network of highways, roads, railways and
airports.
Highway in Morocco
• 1 800 km of highways ;
• 1 907 km of railway lines ;
• Start of work on a 1 500 km
high-speed rail line.
Sources:
Ministry of Equipment and Transport ;
Moroccan National Railways Board (ONCF) ;
Highways of Morocco (ADM).
19. • Port of Tangier Med:
Crossroads of the great
ocean routes
In July 2007, Morocco opened the new Port of
Tangier Med for business. It is a huge infrastructure
project, a symbol of Morocco’s ambition to dominate
at a crossroad of major intercontinental maritime
exchanges.
An additional sign of this proactiveness is the recent
extension of the port: new Tangiers Med II harbor.
The tax-free industrial zones adjacent to the port
are already occupied by substantial export-oriented
manufacturing plants.
• Tangiers Med II, the second phase in the port
extension, will have 73% more capacity than
Tangiers Med I ;
• Capacity: more than 8 million Twenty Feet
Equivalent containers;
• Installations of the world’s biggest shipping
companies : Maersk, MSC, CMA-CGM ; Tangiers Med Port
• 2 000 hectares of professional real estate available
with tax-free zones (by 2015).
EUROPE
PORT OF TANGIERS
MEDITERRANEAN
20. 22 / 23 INVEST IN MOROCCO - World class infrastructure
«Morocco has 15 international airports»
Source: National Airports Authority (Morocco) ONDA
• Airport infrastructure:
Open to the whole world
As a tourism country, traditionally open to the world, Morocco
possesses a dense and high quality airport network. Thanks
to its Open Sky policy, the international airports of Morocco
are served by a large number of international companies and
are connected to the main economic capitals and business
platforms in the world.
These facilities have been developed under a vast modernization
and expansion program which has increased the reception
capacity of Moroccan airports to 30 million passengers per
year.
Mohammed V International Airport
(Casablanca)
Number of flights per week:
• Paris: 79
• London: 14
• Frankfurt: 12
• Dubai: 7
• Toulouse: 7
• New York: 6
• Montréal: 6
Number of passengers per year: more than
5 millions
Number of destinations: 70 different airport
destinations
Source: ONDA (Moroccan Airports Authority)
Tangiers Free Zone, Tangiers
21. The contribution of telecoms to GDP,
standing at 5% in 2004, will exceed 10%
in 2012.
Estimate: ANRT
(Moroccan Telecom Regulation Agency).
• Telecom and fiber optic infrastructure :
Morocco, the leader in Africa
In a decade, Morocco, with its network of 7 500 km of optic
fiber, is an African leader in the field of telecoms.
With its telecom infrastructure at international standard,
completely digital, secure and diversified, the telecommunications
sector has recorded a continuous increase based on :
• Landline and mobile operators (GSM, 3G) ;
• Operators such as VSAT; GMPCS, Radio Trunk and ISP.
Individuals Value Date
Penetration (mobile) (%, per inhabitant) 88,50% June-2010
Penetration (landline) (%, per household) 35% June-2010
Penetration (Internet) (%, per household) 20% June-2010
Number of Internet users 13 million End 2009
Corporate
Connected to Internet 93% End 2009
Corporate website 40% End 2009
• Energy infrastructure
Morocco possesses 26 hydro-electric power stations and 5
thermal power plants reaching a total installed power of 5 292
MW.
The transport and distribution network is as follows :
• 19 575 Km for Very High Voltage lines ;
• 66 398 km for High Voltage lines ;
• 121 022 km for Low Voltage lines.
The country possesses substantial capacity for renewable energy,
especially solar and wind, extending over 3 500 km of coastal
areas.
ST Microelectronics company, in Casablanca
22. 24 / 25 INVEST IN MOROCCO - World class infrastructure
• Infrastructure specifically devoted
to investment
> The P2Is: “Ready for Output” industrial
facilities
Morocco has developed a new concept of areas devoted to
industrial and service projects: the Integrated Industrial Platforms Occupied Lots
Lots available
(P2I).
The P2Is, new generation specialized or general-purpose parks,
sometimes with a tax-free zone status, offer investors ready-to-
use buildings, either for purchase or lease. The Nouasseur Aviation hub, a first-
class hub intended for the aviation and
These parks are provided with basic infrastructure and shared space industries
supporting services in order to reduce installation and running • Area: 80 ha ;
costs:
• Real estate available:
- Hub of aviation industries ;
• Zone operating services: maintenance of infrastructure, security ;
- Hub of aviation services;
• General services: telecoms, catering, health centre, banking ;
- Industrial hub (innovative units) ;
• Business services: business centre, hiring support ;
- Training hub (International Mohammed
• Advanced services intended for industry: industrial maintenance,
VI Academy, IMA);
engineering facilities, recycling, logistical areas ;
- ”rEADY TO OuTPuT” and “rEADY FOr
• One-stop-shop, to include:
SErVICES” zone.
The National Agency for the Promotion of Employment and Skills
(ANAPEC), local authority services, the regional Investment
Centre (CrI), National Social Security Office (CNSS), income tax
office ;
• Public or private training center.
TANGIErS FrEE ZONE
Jorf Lasfar Industrial Park
Located in the North of Morocco, covering an area of 500 hectares,
Tangiers Free Zone (TFZ) has modern infrastructure and numerous • Located 17 kilometers South of El Jadida
supporting services. In addition, it enjoys an advantageous and and 100 km from Casablanca, this estate
preferential tax and customs system. is host to industrial support services and
This duty-free zone has gained the confidence of many covers an area of 500 ha.
multinational companies : • Main sectors:
YAZAKI, SOurIOu, DAHEr, SuMITOMO, LEAr, ANTOLIN, DION, - Heavy industry in the fields of energy,
SHCLEMMEr, EMDEP, DELPHI, and POTYTECH. metallurgy, chemistry and para-chemistry,
and industrial logistics.
23. Tangiers Tetouan
Fez Oujda
Rabat
Casablanca
Essaouira
Marrakech
Agadir
Laayoun
P21 Offshoring
P21 Automotive
P21 Aviation
Dakhla
P21 General
Agriculture hubs
Example of P2I: Kenitra Automotive City
• Surface: 345 hectares ;
• Real estate available:
Some business operators - rental of buildings ‘ready for output’ ;
already in Morocco - Sale or lease of non-built serviced sites ;
- Sale or lease of custom-built buildings .
• Training centers for automotive trades ;
• One-stop shop (local authority services, ANAPEC (Job
promotion agency), CNSS (Social Security agency) ;
• Duty-free zone status.
24. 26 / 27 INVEST IN MOROCCO
Sectorial plans
Exceptional opportunities
«Morocco is a country that has taken off; it is an
emerging country now, so it is must think ahead to
what is best for the future.»
Hubert VEDRINE,
Former Minister of Foreign Affairs (France), 2009
The Emergence plan:
For the development of Morocco’s Textiles and leather
world industry paths
Discover the new Morocco, the Morocco of today, the industrial
Morocco. The Moroccan government has identified six industry
paths which are to become the pillars of the Kingdom’s industrial
development.
For each of these Morocco’s world industry paths, a specific
strategic approach has been created so as to offer private
national or international operators opportunities for competitive,
profitable and fast-growing projects.
Offshoring
26. 28 / 29 INVEST IN MOROCCO - Sectional plans
• Aviation and space:
Morocco at the leading edge
Morocco is becoming a particularly attractive place by offering
itself today as a competitive destination for setting up aviation
industries.
> Opportunities for investment in aviation
in Morocco
• Composite materials;
• Metal-working ;
• Assembling;
• Engineering and design ;
• Engine and equipment repairs ;
• Maintenance;
• Electrical systems and cables ;
• Transformation and modification of aircrafts.
What Morocco has to offer in the field of
aernonautics
• Real estate : integrated industrial platform at
Nouasseur (Casablanca) ;
• Training (objective of 15 000 skilled trainees by
2015):
- Institute of Aeronautical Trades,
- Contirbution fort raining, recruiting and
AIRCELLE, Casablanca employment of up to 40 000 MAD (about 3 600
€)/ person/type of training.
They have placed their trust in • Tax and customs advantages: tax-free status in
Morocco specific zones ;
• Contribution from the Hassan II Fund : up to
10% of the investment ;
• State subsidies: land, off-site, training.
27. The investment of more than 236 million MAD (about
20 million €) by the Japanese group Yazaki for the
construction of a factory manufacturing automobile
wiring in the city of Kenitra, will enable more than 1 600
direct steady jobs to be created.
• Automotive industry:
Morocco a prime partner
Morocco is gradually acquiring key status as a base for the
automobile industry worldwide.
With the development of a strong network of equipment makers
and the installation of assembly plants, vehicles assembled in
Morocco are today exported to Egypt, Tunisia and the European
market.
> Opportunities for investment in the
automotive industry in Morocco
• Plastics engineering: Injection molding, Equipment ;
• Metallurgy: Pressing /Stamping, Forging/ Stamping, Shaping/
Profiling ;
• Cables: Metal working/Plastics, Stacking ;
Somaca, Casablanca
• Paper/ filter/ glass: Molding, Pressing, Weaving ;
• Textiles: weaving/non-woven, Assembling/Stacking ;
A leading manufacturer in Morocco: • Plastics engineering/ textiles: Injection molding, Assembling/
Renault Stacking ;
• Rubber: Extrusion ;
• Assembly plant on the site of Melloussa • Electronics: Mecatronics.
(adjacent to the Tangier Med port
complex), What Morocco has to offer to the automotive
• Site of 314 ha, industry
• Investment of 1,1 billion €
• Goal for 2014: 400 000 vehicles • Real estate: 2 integrated industrial platforms in
assembled per year. Kenitra and Tangiers ;
• Training:
- Specialized Institutes in automobile trades
They have placed their trust in (goal: 70 000 skilled workers trained by 2015) ;
Morocco - Training contribution with an amount of up to
33 000 Moroccan MAD (about 3 000)/person.
• Tax and customs benefits: tax-free status in specific
zones ;
• Contribution from the Hassan II Fund: up to 10% of
the investment ;
• State subsidies: land, off-site, training.
28. 30 / 31 INVEST IN MOROCCO - Sectorial plans
• Offshoring:
Morocco world leader
in French-speaking nearshoring
With its international standard of telecommunications
infrastructure and its high quality human resources, Morocco
has become in a few years a world leader in the call centre
business. The country has also been able to attract the main
European information technology companies.
CASANEARSHORE > Key numbers
• 30 000 employees in the Offshoring sector;
The largest nearshore hub in North • 70 000 trainees in offshoring jobs by 2015 ;
Africa • Projected sectional turnover of more than 20 billion
MAD (about 1,8 billion €) in 2015 ;
Casanearshore is a business park intended • Leading job region in Africa for call centers ;
for businesses specializing in software • More than 430 call centers operating in Morocco ;
development, infrastructure management, • 8 billion MAD’s (about 727 million €) turnover in the sole
banking and back office insurance, customer customer relations management (CrM) sector.
relations management, etc.
> Opportunities for investment
in Offshoring in Morocco
• Information Technology Outsourcing (ITO)
- Software development
- Infrastructure management
- Applications maintenance
• Business Process Outsourcing (BPO)
- Specific job type activities
- Banking
- Insurance
TECHNOPOLIS • CUSTOMER RELATIONS MANAGEMENT
- General administration
- Accounting and finance
- Human resources
• Offshoring hub and Information
- General back offices
& Communications Technology
• Industries and high-tech hub
• University hub
Establishment of the
National Commission for the
Control of the Protection of
Morocco ranks 5th worldwide in terms
Personal Data.
of attracting Francophone offshoring
activities.
Source : Mc Kinsey rating.
29. Casanearshore opened new premises in June 2010 :
• The largest DELL Business Center in the Europe, the Middle East and the
Africa region (20 000 sq.meters, more than 1 800 workers).
• The new headquarters for Cap Gemini Morocco (more than 260 workers).
Adoption of Law N° 09-08 concerning the
protection of individuals regarding the
treatment of personal data > What Morocco has to offer in
Offshoring
.Morocco is one of the first Arab or African
countries to adopt such a complete system • World-class infrastructure and services
of protection guaranteeing the circulation of
personal data. - P2I offshoring (Casanearshore, Technopolis, Fès
shore, Tétouan shore…) measuring up with the best
international standards ;
- First class telecom supply ;
- A “ready for Output” approach with fully-equipped
offices and on-site support business services
Morocco has joined the top available.
30 Offshoring countries.
• Competitive pool of resources and training assistance
Gartner rating of the most interesting
offshore destinations.
- National training plan ;
- Complete exemption from social security contributions
for 24 months for the first use (maximum wage 550 €) ;
They have placed their trust
- Direct training assistance during the first 3 years
in Morocco
rising to 6 500 €.
• IT Provider
• Framework incentives
- Substantial and exceptional labor tax relief: tax ratio
• BPO tied to personal income tax not exceeding 20% ;
- Substantial and exceptional tax relief in company
taxation with exemption from corporate income tax
during the first 5 years, and 17,5% thereafter;
- reduced administrative scheme: one single office for
• Captive Insurance the region, flexible Labor Code, simpler administration
process, especially for SME’s
• Available financing
- Commitment of member banks to create a fund
• Call centers specifically for industrial real estate and services
development ;
- Offers of financing and services to investors in the
sector.
30. 32 / 33 INVEST IN MOROCCO - Sectional plans
• Electronics:
Aiming at a more and more
integrated industry
In Morocco, electronics is a dynamic sector because of the quality
of the infrastructure and the qualified engineers and technicians
available. By 2015, there will be a trained work force of 9 000.
> Opportunities for investment in the automobile
industry in Morocco
• Mecatronics ;
• Industrial electronics ;
• In-car and in-plane electronics.
What Morocco has to offer in the electronics
industry
• Available Real estate availability : electronics
sectors in the integrated industrial platforms
of Kenitra, Nouasseur and Tangiers;
• Availability of training:
ST Microelectronics, Casablanca
- Specialized training centers (OFPPT:
They have trusted in Morocco Moroccan Vocational Training Agency) ;
- Training contribution of an amount up
rising to 40 000 MAD (about 3 600 €)/
person.
• Tax and customs advantages: duty-free
zone status in specified areas ;
• Contribution from the Hassan II fund of up to
10% of the total investment amount;
• State subsidies (land, off-site, training).
31. • Textiles and leather :
Morocco specializes in medium
- and top - range goods
As a major player in the Mediterranean textiles and leather industry,
Morocco possesses a vast range of SMEs of great technical quality,
with a highly-skilled workforce and geographical proximity to the
main markets and an important logistics standpoint.
These advantages, together with the historical background of
the country, enable investors in this sector to place themselves
comfortably in the medium and high range.
> Opportunities for investment in the textiles
and leather sector in Morocco:
• Fast fashion and ready-to-wear fashion lines; ;
• Jeans and sportswear ;
Tavex company, in the city of Settat • Niche products in 3 new areas: lingerie, domestic textiles and
shoes.
What Morocco has to offer in textiles and
leather
• Real estate availability : integrated industrial
platforms ;
• Installation assistance: finishing - dyeing –
printing rising to 20% of total investment ;
• Tax and customs advantages ;
• State subsidies (land, off-site, training) ;
• Areas reserved for logistics and delivering
supplies.
Tavex company, in the city of Settat
32. 34 / 35 INVEST IN MOROCCO - Sectional plans
• Agro-business: Modern Morocco
With its long agricultural tradition, Morocco has developed a
modern, competitive and diversified agro-business sector.
> Opportunities for investment
in agro-business in Morocco
• Processing of fruit and vegetables ;
• Olive and Argan products ;
• Spices ;
• Aromatic and medicinal plants ;
• Meat and milk processing.
What Morocco has to offer in agro-business
• Development of channels with strong export
potential ;
• Development and restructuring of domestic
consumer goods ;
• Implementation of training programs suited to
the sector ;
• Creation of a network of agro-hubs in the
regions of Meknès, the Oriental, Souss,
Gharb, Haouz and Tadla ;
• Tax and customs advantages ;
• State subsidies (land, off-site infrastructure,
training).
International Agriculture Show in Morocco-SIAM 2010
33. • Green Morocco plan to modernize
agriculture
The Green Morocco plan’s objective is to facilitate the development
of a modern and competitive agriculture. It is based on the
following principles:
• To make agriculture the principal growth driver over the next
10-15 years ;
• To ensure the overall development of Moroccan agriculture:
- Modern high value-added agriculture and concerning
irrigated land and favorable bour (rainfed areas),
- Basic agriculture situated in areas of mountains, oases and
unfavorable bour (rainfed areas).
Meknès • To adopt a clustering model for organizing agriculture ;
• To encourage private investment ;
• To safeguard natural resources for sustainable agriculture.
International Agriculture Show in Morocco-SiAM 2010
34. 36 / 37 INVEST IN MOROCCO - Sectional plans
«……Everyone must be encouraged to accept the implementation
of a strategy of energy efficiency, particularly through the
development of different forms of clean renewable energy…»
Extract from the speech of His Majesty King Mohammed VI on Throne
Day, Tetouan -30/07/10
• Renewable energy: Development of existing
A plan for the future power structure
Acceleration of the economic and social development of
Morocco brings an increase in demand for energy, which is to
reach over 36% by 2015, and to triple by 2030. In order to tackle
this increase in demand, 4 priorities have been identified:
• To secure energy supplies
• To optimize access to energy supplies
• To rationalize consumption of energy
• To protect the environment through different forms of
clean energy
Different forms of renewable energy are the best response
to these priorities. The principal issue will be to ensure their
development by extracting the value from the potential from
the sun and the wind and feeding into the regional and
international markets.
Morocco’s ambition is to reach by 2020 a 42% of available
2008 2020
capacity supplied by clean energy.
Nuclear Coal Natural gas
> Key numbers
Oil Hydro-electric Wind
36%: Increase in electricity consumption per inhabitant in Sun Source: ONE
Morocco by 2015;
45GW: Potential of sun and wind energy in Morocco;
42%: Share of electric power obtained from renewable forms
of energy in 2020.
> The recently created Energy Investment
Company (SIE) is a prime investor for
Morocco’s new energy strategy
The SIE is required to invest in projects aimed at increasing
energy production capacity, developing renewable energy
resources and improving energy efficiency.
Wind farm, Tangiers
The Moroccan solar energy plan is not only an
equipment program, but it also includes the
industrial , R&D, and training component .
35. • Solar energy
Tangiers
Rabat Oujda
Casablanca
> Creation of a specialized agency supported
by the Government, the Moroccan for Solar
Marrakech Energy (MASEN)
MASEN’s goal is to implement the Moroccan solar energy plan,
Agadir Ouarzazate
i.e. 2,000 MW by 2020 through:
• Designing integrated solar development projects within the
territory areas ;
Laayoun
• Preparing technical, economic and financial studies needed
for sites qualification ;
• Designing, completing and operating solar energy projects;
• Contributing to research and the mobilization of finance
necessary to the completion and operation of solar energy
Dakhla
project;
• Submitting proposals to the government for the conditions
for industrial integration of each solar energy project;
• Presenting the program to national and foreign investors ;
> Project for producing solar
energy
Morocco has launched an ambitious project
for producing solar energy that will place
the Kingdom among worldwide leaders.
The program, which has already begun its
implementation phase, plans for:
• The production of 2000 MW from five sites
totaling 11 000 ha in the south of the Kingdom ;
• An investment of US $ 9 billion ;
• The production of 38% of the 2008 existing
Solar energy
power and 14% of electric power by 2020 ;
• A saving of 1 million tons in oil fuel equivalent
and the non-emission of 3,7 million tons of
CO2.
36. 38 / 39 INVEST IN MOROCCO - Sectional plans
"I think that Mazagan is one of the most beautiful and exciting
resorts we have built anywhere in the world.".
Sol Kerzner,
CEO of Kerzner International
• Tourism: Success of a vision
Morocco is undeniably tourist destination par excellence. With its 3 500 Kilometers (about 2 000 miles) of
coastline, the wealth and variety of its natural beauty, its centuries-old history, the legendary hospitality of its
people and its ancient traditions, Morocco since its independence has chosen tourism as a priority towards
advancing socio-economic development.
In 2001 Morocco, fully aware of its natural advantages and the wealth of its cultural heritage, set up the “Vision
2010 for tourism”.
> The goals of Vision 2010
• Receive 10 million tourists;
• Increase hotel capacity to 230 000 beds ;
• Create six new resorts on the Mediterranean and Atlantic coast ;
• Generate more than 48 billion MAD in foreign exchange revenues;
• Create 600 000 new stable jobs.
In order to reach these goals, “Vision 2010” set up 4 plans:
• The Azure Plan which planned the creation of 6 coastal resorts (Mogador, Lixus, Mazagan, Saidia,
Taghazout and Plage Blanche) on 3 000 hectares of land and with a total investment of around 46 billion
MAD (about 4 billion €) ;
• The Biladi Plan devoted to the strategy of developing domestic tourism ;
• The Mada’In plan aiming at improving the level of existing destinations (Fez, Casablanca, Agadir…) ;
• The “Niche and rural plan” with the mission of creating jobs and achieving a regional balance in tourism
development.
Today, despite the difficult international situation, Morocco is holding steady, with more than 8 million tourists
by end of 2009. The Mazagan and Saidia resorts are operating and most of the world’s big tour operators are
present via their world-class resorts and hotels.
Enriched by the experience gained from the application of Vision 2010, Morocco will embark on the second
phase of its tourist development via ‘Vision 2020’.
Resorts launched under the Azure
plan and the Azure plan extension > Principles of Vision 2020
• To capitalize on the achievements of Vision 2010 ;
• To move on to a structuring approach to the
country in terms of employment and investment ;
• To develop the competitiveness of Moroccan
tourism by adopting trends and new
opportunities;
• To stress differentiation in Moroccan tourism by
putting sustainable development at the heart of
the strategy.
Shop signs installed in Morocco
37. • Strategies for future
>Logistics program:
Launched in April 2010, the logistics strategy aims at reducing
costs of logitics from 20% to 15% of GDP in 5 years by an overall
investment of 63 billion MAD (about 5 billion €) by 2015 and 116
billion MAD (about 10 billion €) by 2030.
It will also contribute to the sustainable development of the
country through the reduction of pollution. In order to reach
these general objectives, the program is built around five key
themes: development of Multi-flux Logistics Zones, optimization
of the flow of goods, incentives to encourage the emergence of
integrated and efficient logistic operators, development of skills
and implementation of a framework for the sector’s governance .
> Rawaj Vision 2020 plan to accommodate
the development of dometic distribution and
internal commerce:
The rawaj Vision 2020 plan aims at a radical transformation of
the distribution landscape which has resulted in the blossoming of
supermarkets, the opening of shopping malls, the implementation
of the largest international franchises, and the modernization of
local businesses.
This plan includes numerous measures to develop wholesale
and medium distribution, independent businesses, chains and
franchised stores.
This plan includes numerous measures to develop wholesale
and medium distribution, independent businesses, chains and
franchised stores.
> Halieutis plan for the exploitation and the
protection of the fishing potential:
The Halieutis plan is based on the following principles:
• Sustainable exploitation of resources and promotion of
responsible fishing ;
• Development of an efficient and quality fishing industry by
ensuring optimum traceability of the product throughout the
value chain. ;
• Obtaining the best value for processed products through out
the ease of access to raw material, encouragement of product
innovation, penetration of the most profitable markets
(creation of three regional competitiveness hubs in Tangier,
Agadir and Laâyoune-Dakhla).
> “Maroc Numeric 2013” plan to position
Morocco as a regional technology hub:
The “Maroc Numeric 2013” plan intends to make information
technology one of the pillars of the Moroccan economy, a vector Tangier Med, Tangier
of human development and a source of value added for the
economic and public administration sectors. As an international
player in information technology and host to the large international
operators, Morocco also wants to increase increase the diffusion
of these technologies and their general use by the ordinary citizens,
companies and administrations.
38. 40 / 41 INVEST IN MOROCCO
Qualified human
resources
• Higher education of international
standard
Moroccan higher education is made up of a broad spread of
universities and colleges which provide quality education for
diversed professions. The development program for this sector
is growing with the opening of new establishments: College of
Fashion, International university of rabat, International university
of Casablanca, School of Government and Economy of rabat
partnered with SciencesPo Paris, Al Akhawayn university, etc.
• Qualified human resources
In Morocco, human resources have all the advantages needed
to become the pillars of competitive investment and value
creation: good level of training, good cultural attitudes, fluency in
languages and new technologies, attachment to entrepreneurial
spirit, capacity to adapting to jobs change, and competitive salary
costs.
• Professional training adapted to
company needs
Morocco conducts a very dynamic professional training policy
which enables companies to possess trained and available human
resources.
• Considerable and competitive pool of potential resources for
High School (Baccalureate) + and undergrad levels (2 and 4
years after the High school degree) ;
• Training subsidy for every new Moroccan employee rising from
35 to 65 K-MAD’s over the first 3 years;
• National Training Programme with the collaboration of
universities, colleges, the private sector, ANAPEC and OFPPT ;
• Support and assistance in hiring.
University of Ain Sebâa, Casablanca
- More than 100 000 high school graduates per year ;
- 370 000 is the total number of public/private higher education teaching staff ;
- More than 40 000 graduates per year in public/private higher education ;
- 250 000 trainees per year are to be accepted for public/private training for 2009-2012 ;
- More than 120 000 graduates for the OFPPT* agency in 2009/2010
*Office de la Formation Professionnelle et de la Promotion du Travail (Moroccan Vocational Training Agency)
Source: Moroccan Ministry of National Education, Higher Education, Management Training and Scientific Research)
39. Higher education in its three large components (university,
management training and private) includes 16 universities
and 339 schools and institutes.
Source: Moroccan Ministry of National Education, Higher Education, Management Training and
Scientific Research)
The share of GDP in scientific research
2009 0.8%
2010 1%
2015 1.5%
• Research and innovation www.emarrakech.com
encouraged
Morocco has voluntarily committed itself to support
and improve the value of scientific research and
innovation via ambitious projects which increase
added value.
Created as part of the “Envol” (“Take-off”) plan, the
MASCIr project (Moroccan Association For Scientific
Innovation and research) aims at establishing the
physical and technological infrastructure to create an
R&D triangle in the fields of New Information and
Communication Technologies, nanotechnologies,
biotechnology, environment, and materials and
polymers.
rabat Technopolis, a symbol of Morocco’s commitment
to research, is a ‘smart’ city devoted to microelectronics, Protenia, in the city of Ifrane
nanotechnology and technological development.
They have trusted Morocco
40. 42 / 43 INVEST IN MOROCCO
Living in Morocco
«Morocco is ranked 26th out of
195 in the list of countries where it
is good to live».
’ International Living’, observer of the quality of life
• Pleasant lifestyle 2009.
With its millennial history, its culture, its gastronomy and its
legendary hospitality, Morocco has always been a country at the
crossroads. Its geographical position has given its inhabitants a
character combined with openness and tolerance.
Morocco is one of the countries on the south shore of the
Mediterranean where living conditions are very pleasant; and its
mild sunny climate adds comfort to this fact. The Kingdom offers
all the conveniences to afford the expatriate with an agreeable
experience:
• High quality health care, with a large network of private clinics
and specialized clinics ;
• A large network of foreign schools, particularly French,
Spanish and American ;
• Several cultural centers belonging to different countries ;
• Shopping centers and many international franchises and shop
signs ;
• A considerable number of world-famous cultural and music
festivals such as the Mawazine festival, the Essaouira festival,
the Marrakech International Film Festival, and the Dakhla surf
festival.
• A tradition of openness
Morocco, although a Muslim country attached to its ancestral
values, is nonetheless open-minded and fully tolerant, and
foreigners can practice their religion in perfect liberty and security.
The number of churches and synagogues is a good illustration.
Railway station, Marrakech
«Morocco, Largest North African
country and 10th in the MENA
area in the field of economic
freedom».
Index of Economic Freedom, 2010.
41. «Morocco, golfing destination for
2010 in the Africa, the Gulf and
Oceania area.»
Prize awarded by International Golf Travel Market, 2009
• Wide range of tourist destinations
With nearly 3500 kilometers of coastline, mountain ranges and
the dunes of the Sahara desert, Morocco offers an extraordinary
variety of natural advantages.
• Beach tourism, with five new generation resorts: Mazagan,
Mogador, Lixus, Saïdia, Plages Blanches ;
• Cultural tourism, with an exceptional architectural heritage and
many classified uNESCO World Heritage sites ;
• Mountain tourism and eco-tourism, with two principal ski
resorts at Oukaïmeden and Michlifen ;
• 21 world-class golf courses and the Hassan II Golf Trophy
(included in the European Tour) ;
• Various car-treks (raids) and rallies including the Aicha Gazelle
Trophy ;
• International Automobile Grand Prix (FIA - WTCC) ‘Marrakech
Grand Prix’.
Hôtel Mazagan, El Jadida
42. 44 / 45 INVEST IN MOROCCO
A sustainable
development policy
«The sustainable development policy initiated by Morocco is part
of a long term environmental strategy featuring the protection of
natural resources and eco-systems, the constant monitoring of the
environment by the Government in the regions, and the planning
of operations towards improving the environmental framework
of citizens.»
Amina Benkhadra, Minister of Energy, Mining, Water and the Environment
• Environmental Protection
at the heart of the Kingdom’s
priorities
Sustainable development is an option adopted by
Morocco in the same way as has been the case for
the international community.
The Kingdom has created several public bodies to
assist its sustainable development strategy:
• Mohammed Foundation VI for Environmental
Protection;
• National Environment Observatory;
• Maritime Transport Observatory ;
• Environment and Water Department;
• Maritime Fisheries Department;
Marrakech • N a t i o n a l A g e n c y f o r t h e D e v e l o p m e n t o f
renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (2010) ;
6 fundamental principles of the CNEDD* Charter: • Moroccan Solar Energy Agency (2010).
• Precautions ; A Charter for Environment and Sustainable
• Preventive action; Development (CNEDD) will be adopted in 2010. It will
• “Polluter-payer” principle; offer a framework for the protection of Morocco’s
• Participation ; natural wealth by means of a general approach that
• Responsibility with regard to repairing environmental
balances protection of the environment with economic
damage ; development.
• Integration of environmental problems into all
government policies.
* National Charter for Environment and Sustainable Development
43. " In 2010 Rabat was declared the World’s Green City. It
was chosen by the “Earth Day Network” association as a
premier city for the celebration of the 40th anniversary
of Earth Day, from April 17 to April 25, 2010»
Tangiers
44. 46 / 47 INVEST IN MOROCCO
Moroccan Investment
Development Agency
• AMDI serving investors
> Your partner for investment and business.
With its international network and a wide range of institutional
partnerships with all Moroccan administrations as well as with
private operators, AMDI offers a free professional public service
to all investors.
AMDI is here to assist you along all the stages of your
investment:
• To inform you ;
• To offer you assistance ;
• To accompany you in your investment formalities;
• To facilitate contact with your local and department partners;
• To enable you to take advantage of the best environment to
develop your enterprise.
Equipped with all logistics and technological facilities, a reception
and information office is at your disposal at the headquarters of
the Agency.
• A mission to promote and develop
investments
The primary mission of AMDI is to promote investment in Morocco,
especially by conducting communication activities, proposing
legislative or regulatory reforms, and supporting foreign investors
throughout all the stages of their investment project.
AMDI
45. Moroccan Investment Development Agenc y
Rabat -Morocco
Tel. : + 212 5 37 67 34 20/21 - Fax : +212 5 37 67 34 17/42
Spain – Madrid
Agencia Marroquí de Desarrollo
AMDI is also committed on the field and to develop investments in de Inversiones
the sectors of industry, trade, and new technologies. Oficina de representación España
It is also responsible for: Paseo de la Castellana, 141, Planta 20
Edificio Cuzco IV 28046 Madrid
• Making proposals for a government investment development Phone: + 34 917 893 441
Fax: + 34 915 707 199
program ;
• Carrying out prospecting of potential investors ;
• Appointing representatives abroad in collaboration with the
Moroccan Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation.
France – Paris
• A cooperative approach Agence Marocaine de
Développement
AMDI plans to act with a collaborative logic and works with many des Investissements Bureau de
institutions in order to attain its objectives : représentation – France
• regional Investment Centers (CrI’s), in order to optimize and 14 Avenue d’Eylau - 75116 PArIS
Phone: +33 1 73 02 15 09/10
simplify the treatment of investment agreements ; Fax: +33177 726499
• The bodies in charge with the economic promotion of Morocco,
such as Maroc Export, La Maison de l’Artisan (The Artisan’s
House), The National Tourism Board (ONMT), the Chambers of
Commerce and Industry, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and
Cooperation, and others ;
• Other national economic institutions such as the Agricultural
Development Agency (ADA) or the Moroccan Tourism Engineering
Company (SMIT) ;
• Offices have already been opened in Paris, Madrid and Milan.
Others will open in 2011, in the united Kingdom, Germany and
the united States.