Investment opportunities in Morocco are in the spotlight in China. The kingdom offers a platform to boost Chinese exports, already affected by a rise in taxes decreed by the United States and the European Union. After the private visit of the President of China to Morocco, a Beijing-based magazine dedicated extensive coverage in its latest edition to the kingdom's investment opportunities. Even before delving into the report, the complete map of Morocco, including the Sahara, immediately catches the reader's and economic decision-maker's attention. The special issue, published in Chinese and English, opens with a reminder of the historical ties between the two countries. An article authored by Morocco's ambassador to China, Abdelkader El Ansari, highlights this bond as Rabat and Beijing celebrate the 66th anniversary of their diplomatic relations this year. In a message addressed to China's business community, the ambassador underscored Morocco's strategic geographical position at the crossroads of Africa, Europe, and the Arab world, describing it as «the gateway to Africa». He emphasized Morocco's «stability, ambition, and forward-thinking policies», positioning the kingdom as «a reliable partner and a driver of sustainable development». Focus on 2030 The ambassador also spotlighted major initiatives, notably Morocco's role in hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal. He described it as «a symbol of our nation's emergence on the world stage», showcasing Morocco's organizational expertise, cultural wealth, and hospitality. He further linked the event to Morocco's progress in infrastructure, social development, and the empowerment of a new, dynamic generation. The magazine Vitcow delved into the pillars of Morocco's economy, highlighting the thermal automobile industry with its «production capacity of 900,000 vehicles per year and a supply chain of 250 global players and SMEs serving 75 export destinations». It also referenced a significant March 2024 agreement with Chinese electric vehicle company BTR, involving $297 million for a production plant dedicated to cathodes and other key materials for electric vehicle batteries. Free Trade Agreements : A key asset Morocco's free trade agreements with major Chinese export markets, including the European Union and the United States, were cited as significant draws for Chinese investors. This comes in the wake of tax hikes on Chinese exports imposed by Washington and Brussels in mid-2024. Additionally, concerns about U.S.-China relations, particularly with Donald Trump's return to the presidency, were noted as influential factors. The report also covered Morocco's aerospace, pharmaceutical, textile, outsourcing, and agribusiness sectors. President Xi Jinping, during his recent visit to Casablanca and discussions with Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan, reaffirmed China's support for Morocco's efforts in preserving national security and stability. He also advocated for enhanced cultural and interpersonal exchanges to solidify bilateral friendship. As a reminder, Morocco and China established a strategic partnership during King Mohammed VI's state visit to Beijing in 2016. This relationship was further strengthened in January 2022 when Morocco's Foreign Minister, Nasser Bourita, and Ning Jizhe, Vice President of China's National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), signed a Joint Implementation Plan under the Belt and Road Initiative, originally launched in 2013.
