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The launch of “The Oxford Handbook of the Moroccan Economy” marks a significant step in comprehending Morocco’s economic transformation over the past six decades. This comprehensive resource, championed by leading experts, aims to deepen academic and analytical understanding of the country’s evolving economic landscape.
A Comprehensive Resource for Economic Understanding
On Thursday, the Policy Center for the New South in Sala, Morocco, unveiled “The Oxford Handbook of the Moroccan Economy.” This extensive tome, published by Oxford University Press, provides critical insights into the historical economic shifts that have shaped Morocco since 1960. Spearheaded by Karim Al Aynaoui, CEO of the center, and Arkebe Ouuttai, professor at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) in London, the handbook comprises contributions from 53 international experts spanning 34 chapters.
Designed as both a scholarly and analytical tool, the handbook offers a long-term historical perspective on Morocco’s economic changes, focusing on key sectoral transformations and significant public policy issues impacting national development.
An Impetus for Public Discourse
During the launch event, Al Aynaoui shared that the compilation took approximately two and a half years of research and collaboration. He emphasized the intention to present a holistic view of Morocco’s economic trajectory within the proper historical context, refraining from overly narrow perspectives. The guide is not merely an academic publication; it is a vital reference for researchers, students, and policymakers. Furthermore, it is available through open access, aimed at broadening its reach and enriching public discourse regarding the national economy.
Al Aynaoui highlighted what he termed the “economic constants” governing Morocco’s economic performance, such as the tendency to import, household saving behaviors, and the budget multiplier, along with the determinants of economic policy flexibility and their impacts on families and businesses.
A Multi-Disciplinary Approach
Arkebe Ouuttai reflected on the handbook’s significance as a pivotal African reference for understanding Morocco’s unique economic journey. He underscored that evaluating the national economy necessitates an interdisciplinary approach, weaving together economics, history, sociology, and engineering.
Ouuttai noted that over the past 60 years, Morocco has achieved an average growth rate of 4.3%, surpassing the continental average. He spotlighted the structural transformations in the industrial sector, revealing that industry now constitutes around 17% of the gross domestic product and creates 21% of employment opportunities.
Navigating Global Economic Integration
Senior researcher Fathallah Allaou presented a historical analysis of Morocco’s integration into the global economy. He remarked that recent investment reforms and preparations for the 2030 World Cup underscore the national economy’s resilience and capacity to adapt to international changes.
The handbook delves into crucial topics, including structural transformation, productivity, industrial policies, innovation, private sector development, global value chains, labor market dynamics, informal employment, poverty, education, health, energy transition, and regional development.
This publication is part of the Policy Center for the New South’s commitment to fostering strategic discussions and shaping public policies at both the Moroccan and African levels. By generating in-depth and updated knowledge of the national economy, the center aims to contribute significantly to the region’s economic discourse.
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