Moroccan Internal Trade Towards 2030: A Shift towards Modernization and Digitization
The Moroccan internal trade sector has entered a new phase of transformation following a meeting in Sale that brought together public and private stakeholders to discuss its development prospects. The discussions emphasized the dual need for modernizing traditional channels and preparing the economy for upcoming challenges, notably the 2030 World Cup.
Minister of Industry and Trade Ryad Mezzour confirmed that this sector, which has long been viewed as a fragmented assembly of small traders, is in fact a fundamental pillar of the national economy and a lever for social balance. He stressed that the goal is to support traders in adapting to structural changes through digital tools, organized frameworks, and greater recognition of their strategic role.
Morocco is looking to hold a national trade conference in early 2026 to establish a roadmap extending to 2030, which includes practical measures to qualify the system, enhance business competitiveness, and ensure social gains for traders.
Concrete steps have already been recorded in this direction, with over 300,000 traders joining the Unified Professional Contribution system, which enables them to access social coverage. Additionally, 161 startups in the field of digitization have received support, with the second phase, set for 2025 to 2027, expected to encompass another three hundred.
The flourishing of e-commerce is a central component of this strategy, alongside the establishment of regional specialized centers in partnership with the Ministry of Digital Transition. Furthermore, 35,000 retail sellers benefited from improved supply through purchasing centers, enhancing their competitiveness against major brands.
During the meeting, two agreements were signed to reinforce this digital shift: the first with Z.systems to connect 50,000 stores with advanced technological solutions, including loyalty programs and instant electronic payment methods, and the second with WOLIZ Solution to equip 20,000 stores with remote payment devices and expand its professional application to include 90,000 traders.
These initiatives aim to transform traditional commerce into an integrated player in the digital economy, capable of attracting new customers and adhering to international standards.
The reforms seek to build a competitive and inclusive business model based on digitization and sustainability, incorporating traders into the formal economy and securing their social status. In light of the challenges posed by the 2030 World Cup, Morocco aspires to position internal trade as a driver of economic and social attractiveness, bolstering the standing of other vital sectors such as tourism, industry, and services.
