Zidan: Moroccans Abroad as a Strategic Lever for Investment
Khalid Zidan, the Minister Delegate to the Head of Government in Charge of Investment, Integration, and Policy Evaluation, emphasized that Moroccans living abroad possess significant potential capable of creating economic exceptions in Morocco. He stressed that this demographic receives royal attention and is a national priority in public policies.
During a session of oral questions at the House of Councillors on Tuesday, in response to a question from the Independence Party team regarding incentivizing Moroccans abroad to invest, Zidan noted that the Moroccan diaspora is not only a vital source of foreign currency but also a reservoir of talent and a staunch defender of the nation’s interests across various countries.
The government official, using statistical data, revealed an investment gap the government aims to reduce. He indicated that remittances from Moroccans living abroad amount to approximately 110 billion dirhams annually, with only about 10% allocated for investment. He highlighted the government’s ambition, in line with royal directives, to raise this figure to at least 30% by leveraging the strong ties between Moroccans abroad and their homeland and enhancing Morocco’s image as an attractive investment destination.
Zidan pointed out that investments from Moroccans abroad contribute to achieving spatial equity, as this group tends to invest in their native regions, including remote and isolated areas, unlike some traditional investments that concentrate in major economic hubs. This approach helps ensure balanced development across various regions of the kingdom and avoids a two-speed economy.
Regarding practical mechanisms, the minister outlined several measures pursued by his ministry in collaboration with the National Agency for the Development of Investment and Exports, including the establishment of a dedicated office for Moroccans abroad and the development of digital platforms to facilitate their access to investment information. He also mentioned organizing field initiatives, such as the recent promotional tour in Munich that featured 140 investors, and the “World Moroccan Investment Week” held last August to provide direct support through regional investment centers.
Zidan concluded by emphasizing that improving the business climate is a cornerstone in attracting investments from the Moroccan diaspora, noting that efforts continue to enhance coordination and integration of policies across various sectors and institutions, including the Parliament, to transform these visions into tangible public policies that serve comprehensive development.
