Morocco Bets on Strategic Industries to Face Supply Chain Crises
Riyad Mezzour, Minister of Trade and Industry, confirmed that the localization of strategic industries in Morocco is fully aligned with the directives of King Mohammed VI to enhance national industrial and technological sovereignty, reducing dependence on foreign sources in vital sectors, while keeping pace with rapid global transformations in industry and technology.
In response to a written question from advisor Khaled Al-Satti regarding the localization of strategic industries, the minister stated that this step has become not just an option but a necessity to tackle challenges arising from geopolitical fluctuations, supply chain crises, climate change, and rapid technological advancements.
Mezzour pointed out that strategic industries include pillars of national sovereignty such as food and health security, energy, as well as innovation and technology. They primarily encompass new and renewable energy industries like green hydrogen and energy storage, pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, sustainable mobility including electric vehicles and batteries, along with water-related industries.
The minister further noted that these industries strengthen Morocco’s position within global value chains, create qualified job opportunities, and enhance industrial added value, indicating that the share of high and medium-tech industries rose from 38.6% in 2014 to 50.5% in 2024, reflecting Morocco’s progress in localizing advanced technologies.
He also emphasized that the ministry is working to implement the priorities outlined by King Mohammed VI in his message on the National Industry Day on March 29, 2023, which called for embarking on a new industrial era focusing on sovereignty as both a goal and a means.
These priorities include enhancing the competitiveness of local production, reducing reliance on imports, supporting sustainable job creation for youth, aligning human capital with market needs and business management skills, embracing modern technologies, strengthening public-private partnerships, and expanding support systems for research, development, and innovation.
The minister stressed the importance of rapidly transitioning to low-carbon production through renewable energy, improving water use efficiency and conservation via recycling and modern technologies, and promoting industries that integrate knowledge and new activities.
Finally, Mezzour highlighted the significance of the investment charter, which prioritizes promising sectors and supports private investments in future jobs such as digital technologies while enhancing the capabilities of the national industry toward sustainable development.
