Latest News (3 March 2008 - 30 August 2010)
For more Morocco related news headlines, please visit Morocco News Line.
27 August 2010
Morocco: Realising the Vision
In 1999, His Highness King Mohammed VI announced a vision of modernity and today Morocco has plenty to celebrate. The aim of His Majesty's Royal Plan Azur initiative was to invigorate the Moroccan tourism market by, amongst other things, identifying key locations prime for development. Two of these new destinations are now open and the 14% rise in tourism in the first two months of 2010 can be somewhat attributed to their success. A total of 42 billion tourist receipts are forecasted for 2010.
English
http://www.prfire.co.uk/press-release/morocco-realising-the-vision-24713.html
Young Moroccan entrepreneurs attend USAID event
Some 160 young men and women from across Morocco are attending a one-week entrepreneurial leadership seminar in Rabat through Saturday (August 28th).
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2010/08/27/feature-02
26 August 2010
Turning fog into potable water in arid Morocco
Six students from Rice University have spent the past month in Morocco figuring out how best to capture drops of water in the foggy Atlas Mountains so that nearby villagers have better access to safe drinking water.
English
http://news.cnet.com/8301-27083_3-20014812-247.html
25 August 2010
Morocco: EasyJet Airline to operate Paris-Fez flights in November
The EasyJet will start operating air routes between Paris and Fez starting this November, the low cost company announced.
English
24 August 2010
Morocco: 16% increase in tourist arrivals despite the economic crisis
The tourism sector is robust despite the economic slump thanks to measures taken by the Moroccan government to address the world financial crisis, Tourism Minister Yassir Zenagui said.
English
23 August 2010
New U.S. - North Africa Public-Private Partnership
The Office of the Middle East Partnership Initiative (NEA/PI) announces an open competition for projects that support a new public-private partnership developed by the State Department’s Bureau of Economic, Energy and Business Affairs (EEB) in cooperation with the Bureau of Oceans, Environment, and Science to foster economic opportunity in North Africa.
English
http://mepi.state.gov/opportunities/146092.htm
Morocco, AfDB sign €203mln loan agreements on drinking water supply in Rabat-Casablanca zone
Morocco and the African Development Bank (AfDB) signed, on Thursday in Rabat, loan agreements, worth 203 million Euros, on the project of reinforcing drinking water supply in the coastal zone of Rabat-Casablanca.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/morocco_afdb_sign/view
18 August 2010
Casablanca to host investment fair
The first Casablanca International Investment Fair will be held November 23rd-26th. Representatives of Arab, European and American companies are scheduled to attend the event.
English
17 August 2010
In Morocco, Visions of a Silicon Valley Campus
The university is a public-private partnership. Mohammed VI, the Moroccan king, donated the 20 hectares—about 50 acres—in a new technology park on the outskirts of the city. Classes, which this fall are being held in temporary offices, will move there next year, and the campus should be completed by 2015. The university plans to have 280 faculty members and 5,000 students by 2020.
English
http://chronicle.com/article/In-Morocco-Visions-of-a/123923/
This week on Marketplace Middle East: Tourism in Morocco
2009 was a challenging year for the tourism sector, but now it's steadily regaining momentum. In the Middle East, Morocco boasted six percent growth in 2009.
English
http://www.cnn.com/2010/BUSINESS/08/17/mme.synopsis.august20/
Morocco improving financial services and budget allocations
Two different reports released this summer that evaluate Morocco’s public finance management have reached similar conclusions about the country’s efforts to improve the delivery of financial services and budget allocations.
English
16 August 2010
Teeing off in Morocco
With a raft of development projects around the country, authorities are hoping Morocco will become a destination of choice for beach, golf, spa and luxury travel.
English
http://www.arabianbusiness.com/594611-teeing-off-in-morocco
12 August 2010
Sofitel continues Moroccan expansion
As the only international luxury brand with a presence in all key cities in Morocco, Sofitel is aiming to consolidate its strengths with the opening of three new properties, as well as introducing its new So Spa concept to the country.
English
http://www.hoteliermiddleeast.com/9200-sofitel-continues-moroccan-expansion/
Morocco: Urban Commune of Casablanca improving performance, decreasing debt
Fitch Ratings has upgraded the Urban Commune of Casablanca's (UCC) National Long-term rating to 'A+(mar)' from 'A'. Fitch has also affirmed its Long-term foreign and local currency ratings at 'BB+' respectively. The Outlooks are Stable. The upgrade reflects UCC's improving budgetary performance, decreasing debt levels, favorable socio-economic profile and strong central government oversight. The ratings also take into account insufficient financial information disclosure, limited budgetary planning and weak cash management.
English
11 August 2010
Marrakech, example in rehabilitating medinas in MENA region - WB report says
The city of Marrakech is an example in terms of rehabilitating medinas (ancient city centres) in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, with a positive impact on cultural tourism in the town, the World Bank (WB) said in a report on rehabilitating medinas in the MENA.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/culture/marrakech_example_i/view
5 August 2010
Morocco's railways office to invest over $ 3 bln in 2010-2015
orocco's railways office (ONCF) will invest 3.8 billion dollars (33 bln dirhams) to fund its development program for 2010-2015, against 18 bln dirhams between 2005-2009.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/morocco_s_railways_o/view
3 August 2010
Morocco Targets High-Tech Inward Investment
Morocco is spreading its wings in order to attract more foreign inward investment into expanding opportunities in a range of industrial and service sectors. High technology enterprises, aerospace companies in particular, are being targeted as potential investors.
English
Morocco: phosphates, derivatives exports reach $1.8 billion with 78% increase
Morocco's exports of phosphates and derivatives have posted a rise of 78.4% in the year up to late June, with 15.6 billion dirhams ($1.8 billion), compared to 8.8 billion dirhams last year, according to Morocco's exchange rate monitoring body.
English
Morocco’s economic model succeeds where others fail
Morocco has made impressive headway reducing poverty over the last decade. It remains far from a perfect model, but the approval the country has received is justified and other Arab countries should learn from its success. Today, less than nine per cent of Moroccans are considered “poor”, compared to 16.2 per cent a decade ago.
English
http://www.thenational.ae/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20100804/OPINION/708039954/1080
02 August 2010
Economist: Morocco to become a leading renewable energy actor
Morocco is hoping to become a leading actor in renewable energy on the southern shore of the Mediterranean, said the UK-based The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), in its Morocco Country Report for July.
English
30 July 2010
GE's fuel-flexible gas turbines selected for Kenitra Power Plant in Morocco
Diversified infrastructure, finance and media company General Electric Company will supply fuel-flexible gas turbine technology for the Kenitra Power Plant in Morocco, GE announced on Thursday.
English
Maroc Telecom's turnover rises 6% in 2010 first-half
Moroccan main telecommunication company Maroc Telecom's turnover rose by 6% year-on-year in the 2010 first-half, reaching 15.5 billion dirhams ($1.8 billion).
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/maroc_telecom_s_turn/view
29 July 2010
Morocco invites bids for phase one of solar scheme
Morocco is inviting investors who have expressed interest in phase one of its $9 billion solar power project to submit pre-qualification bids by October 4 at the latest, its solar energy agency said on Thursday.
English
http://af.reuters.com/article/investingNews/idAFJOE66S0DF20100729
Morocco pushes ahead with 'Maroc Digital 2013'
Morocco is pressing forward with the e-government strategy that focuses on greater integration and wider use of information technology in public services.
English
http://www.zawya.com/story.cfm/sidZAWYA20100729061347
26 July 2010
US investors target Maghreb opportunities
US-based Emerging Capital Partners (ECP) will announce on Monday (July 26th) that it has raised $613 million for a fund aimed at making deals in Africa, including the Maghreb.
English
22 July 2010
Morocco: Tangier free zone ranks eighth worldwide
The Tangier free zone was ranked eighth worldwide for 2010/2011, according to a global ranking of economic zones conducted by British magazine Foreign Direct Investment (fDi).
English
Morocco is pushing for integration into Euro-Mediterranean energy system - official says
Morocco is pushing for more integration into the Euro-Mediterranean energy system as a main component of its energy strategy, Energy Minister Amina Benkhadra said on Saturday in Asilah.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/regional/morocco_is_pushing_f/view
21 July 2010
Tangier free zone ranks eighth worldwide, fDi Magazine says
The Tangier free zone was ranked eighth worldwide for 2010/2011, according to a global ranking of economic zones conducted by British magazine Foreign Direct Investment (fDi).
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/home/tangier_free_zone_ra/view
STOCKS NEWS AFRICA-Morocco back in positive territory
Morocco's stock exchange ends a five-day decline as investors wrap up profit-taking and allow the market to edge back into positive territory.
English
http://af.reuters.com/article/nigeriaNews/idAFLDE66K20U20100721?sp=true
Pratt & Whitney wins $145M Moroccan Air Force deal
Pratt & Whitney said Monday it was awarded a contract valued at roughly $145 million to supply engines to power the Royal Moroccan Air Force's new fleet of F-16 aircraft.
English
http://www.businessweek.com/ap/financialnews/D9H2BF280.htm
16 June 2010
Morocco:A Different Route Across the Ocean
For some select Norwegian salmon, the journey to American plates will follow an unexpected route through Morocco. Among the food producers and exporters whose booths lined the aisles of the immense Javits Convention Center in New York City for this summer's Fancy Food Show was entrepreneur Chabani Manoubi.
English
http://www.america.gov/st/business-english/2010/July/20100715154630ffej0.4747387.html
15 June 2010
Morocco's economy showed good resilience during 2010 first months, Minister
Morocco's economy showed a good resilience during first months of 2010, Economy and Finance Minister Salaheddine Mezouar said on Monday. Addressing the Finance and economic development commission at the Lower House, Mezouar underlined the need for vigilance and anticipation of changes at the international scene.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/morocco_s_economy_sh9901/view
14 July 2010
Morocco: $ 9 billion solar energy project showcased in Italy
Morocco's strategy in terms of promoting renewable energy was showcased, on Monday in Milan (Italy), by the head of the Moroccan Agency for solar energy, Mustapha Bakkoury. Morocco made the choice of securing energy supply's quality and quantity and protecting its environment, amid challenges of pollution, desertification and increasing energy consumption, Bakkoury said, addressing a panel on energy, held as part of the Mediterranean Economic and Financial Forum (July 12-13).
English
Arab Monetary Fund, Morocco sign $ 220 million financing agreement
Morocco and the Arab Monetary Fund (AMF) signed, on Tuesday in Rabat, a financing agreement worth nearly 2 billion dirhams ($ 220 mln) to develop financial and banking services offered by the Fund as part of its cooperation with Morocco.
English
Amal Oils Teams up with Moroccan Women to Bring 100% Organic Argan Oil to the U.S. and Entrepreneurial Education to Morocco
Amal Oils has teamed up with women cooperatives in Morocco to bring 100% Organic Argan Oil to the US and entrepreneurial education to Morocco.
English
http://www.earthtimes.org/articles/press/entrepreneurial-education-morocco,1383090.html
13 July 2010
Cisco TelePresence Service Launches in Morocco
Cisco announced today that its Casablanca office has become the first business premises in Morocco to offer Cisco TelePresence(TM) exchanges.
English
Maghreb ministers endorse joint youth employment strategy
A Maghreb-wide strategy for tackling youth unemployment must include public-private partnerships, the creation of new businesses and vocational training that addresses "the needs of the Maghreb job market", the 9th Council of Maghreb Ministers of Training, Employment, Social Affairs and the Maghreb Community agreed.
English
http://www.zawya.com/story.cfm/sidZAWYA20100713051624
Masdar Participates and Hosts Renewable Energy Conference in Morocco
Masdar, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Mubadala development company and the Abu Dhabi based company focused on developing commercially scalable and sustainable energy solutions, has successfully participated and hosted an international renewable energy conference as part of the 32nd Assilah International Cultural Festival in the Kingdom of Morocco.
English
http://press-releases.techwhack.com/57238-masdar-4
07 July 2010
Morocco’s push to develop renewable power
Last Monday near Tangiers, Morocco’s King Mohammed VI inaugurated 165 wind turbines the government is touting as Africa’s largest wind farm. The installation is Morocco’s latest advance in a drive for renewable energies that is
winning it recognition as a regional leader in the field.
English
http://www.thenational.ae/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20100704/BUSINESS/707049941/1005
Tetouan-shore: Morocco launches $ 111 million industrial zone
The project, which is to generate some 10,000 jobs, is part of the implementation of the National Pact for Industrial Emergence (PNEI) that is meant to promote job-creation, increase the industry's GDP, bring down trade deficit and attract more foreign investments.
English
Sharing Maghreban experiences will spur job market, Moroccan official says
Sharing Maghreban experiences and expertise is essential to spurring job market in the Maghreb, Moroccan Employment Minister Jamal Rhmani said on Wednesday.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/social/sharing_maghreban_ex/view
02 July 2010
Phosphates, derivatives sales surge 61% up to April 2010
Phosphates and derivatives sales stood at 8.7 billion dirhams ($973.5 mln) by the end of April 2010, that is a 61% rise compared to 2009, the Economy and Finance Ministry's forecasts office said.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/phosphates_derivati/view
1 July 2010
USAID programme helps Morocco workforce
A new Morocco programme aims to develop a modern workforce through public-private partnerships, Le Matin reported on Wednesday (June 30th). The $34 million USAID initiative, dubbed "Morocco's Economic Competitiveness", also looks to increase agricultural production.
English
30 June 2010
MoneyGram broadens service in Morocco
Money-transfer company MoneyGram International Inc. said Wednesday it signed with three new agents in Morocco and will expand its services to the African country.
English
http://www.businessweek.com/ap/financialnews/D9GLLNHG2.htm
Morocco raises 2010 growth forecast to 4 pct
Morocco's economy will grow by an estimated 4 percent this year on strength in mining, manufacturing and construction, the head of the government's High Planning Commission said on Wednesday.
English
http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSLDE65T2EA20100630
AfDB approves 100-mln euro loan for Morocco
The African Development Bank (AfDB) has approved a 100 million euro loan to Morocco to finance a programme of public administration reform, the bank said in a statement on Wednesday.
English
http://af.reuters.com/article/investingNews/idAFJOE65T0UT20100630
24 June 2010
Morocco's Economy Shows Relatively Good Growth Prospects for 2010-2011, Minister
The growth prospects of Morocco's economy, which showed a good resilience to the financial crisis, are relatively good for 2010-2011, Economy and Finance Minister Salaheddine Mezouar said on Wednesday.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/home/morocco_s_economy_sh/view
23 June 2010
Morocco Inches Closer to Modernity
Over the next year, Marrakech will be home to new outposts of the Four Seasons and W Hotels opening lavish mega-resorts with their own restaurants, pool bars and golf courses to join Amanresorts, La Mamounia and Mandarin Oriental Jnan Rahma. Marrakech's movie-star ambitions are clear: to make the town even more accessible to tourism and high-end convention markets in North America.
English
http://www.thestreet.com/story/10786881/1/morocco-inches-closer-to-modernity.html?cm_ven=GOOGLEFI
22 June 2010
Volvo Buses Bags Order From Morocco
Morocco. Morocco had been a key market for Volvo's different companies for many years and the Volvo brand is very strong in the country.
English
http://www.topnews.in/volvo-buses-bags-order-morocco-2265262
21 June 2010
Morocco: Agri-food leading export activity
The industry of agri-food and fisheries play a major role in the Moroccan economic. It contributes with 16% in the gross domestic product and 20% in exports. The sector comprises 2,050 production units spread over the whole territory and employs 108,000 employees.
English
http://www.freshplaza.com/news_detail.asp?id=65129
18 June 2010
Marrakesh, Cairo, Vietnam Lead ‘Best Value’ List
The Moroccan city of Marrakesh ranks as the best value for a second home, based on a recent study of prices in 35 markets around the world.
English
World Bank approves US$218 million for water projects in Morocco
The Regional Potable Water Supply Systems project received US$175 million from the World Bank. The aim of this project is to increase access to potable water supply for selected local communities in the Nador, Driouch, Safi, Youssoufia, Sidi Bennour and Errachidia provinces in Morocco.
English
Nexans Opens New Aircraft Cable Manufacturing Plant in Morocco
French cable maker Nexans (NEX.FR) Thursday said it has opened an aircraft cables plant in Mohammedia, Morocco, as the result of an agreement signed in 2008 between Nexans and aircraft maker Airbus (ABI.YY) for the supply of cables for Airbus aircrafts A320, A350, and A380.
English
http://online.wsj.com/article/BT-CO-20100617-704033.html?mod=WSJ_World_MIDDLEHeadlinesEurope
Morocco's solar power project draws international interest
Morocco's USD 9 billion solar power project has drawn more interest than expected, as about international 200 firms have submitted their expressions of interest for the first phase, said the head of Morocco's solar power agency, Mustapha Bakkoury, in a press conference.
English
http://www.menafn.com/qn_news_story_s.asp?StoryId=1093348544
WB Loans Morocco $211.5m to Support Education Reform, Rural Roads Programme
Morocco and the World Bank (WB) signed, on Thursday in Rabat, agreements under which the Bank grants the kingdom three loans of $211.5 million to support education reform and rural roads programme and optimise farming irrigation in the Oum Errabii basin.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/home/wb_loans_morocco_21/view
15 June 2010
Sahara Conflict Costs Maghreb 2 Growth Points Annually, French Paper
The Sahara conflict costs the Maghreb a loss of 2 points of growth annually, the French daily "Le Monde" writes on Tuesday.
Morocco's ambitions to promote regional and continental integration are "thwarted by its relations with its neighbour Algeria," it says.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/see_also/sahara_conflict_cost/view
14 June 2010
Morocco Ranked Sixth Most Competitive Arab Cellular Market
Morocco was ranked by the 2010 Cellular Competition Intensity Index as the sixth most competitive Arab cellular market, the Arab Advisors Group said. Jordan tops the score with 80.7%, followed by Saudi Arabia (75.3%), Palestine (69.3%), Oman (67.1%), Egypt (65.7%) and Morocco (64.9%).
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/morocco_ranked_sixth/view
10 June 2010
STOCKS NEWS AFRICA-Morocco's stocks up led by Maroc Telecom
Morocco's bourse rises for a third day on gains by leading blue chips as investors warmed to the country's positive macro-economic conditions, one trader says.
English
http://af.reuters.com/article/moroccoNews/idAFLDE65828D20100609
Morocco: World Bank Supports Education Program
The World Bank’s Board of Directors approved today a US$60 million Development Policy Loan (DPL) to support the Government of Morocco in the implementation of the “Education Emergency Program 2009–12” to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of service delivery and educational outcomes.
English
8 June 2010
BaySys International, LLC Announces Morocco Joint Venture
Steve Walton, CEO and Founder, announced today that BaySys International signed an agreement with a strategic regional investor to support the development of a VIP Completion Facility in Casablanca, Morocco.
English
DELL Opens in Morocco its Biggest Business Center in Europe, Middle East & Africa
DELL, a multinational information technology corporation, inaugurated on Monday in Casablanca its biggest business center in Europe, Middle-East and Africa region.
English
7 June 2010
Energy for the future - Solar projects in Morocco
Morocco has launched one of the world’s largest solar energy projects costing an estimated $9 billion. The aim of the project is to generate 2,000 megawatts of solar generation capacity by the year 2020.
English
Morocco is open for business
Morocco, unlike its North African neighbours Algeria and Libya, has no petroleum or natural gas. Ironically the relative success of the Moroccan economy is related to this fact, making it Africa’s largest agricultural producer. The country is open for business and eager for investment from abroad. The construction boom in Casablanca and Rabat, the capital, is indicative of the flow of offshore money into the economy.
English
http://www.torontosun.com/comment/columnists/salim_mansur/2010/06/04/14263896.html
European Investment Bank hails co-operation with Morocco
Philippe de Fontaine Vive, vice-president of the European Investment Bank (EIB) praised the level of financial co-operation between the Bank and Morocco.
English
2 June 2010
Moroccan Ambassador to Visit Utah State University
His Excellency Aziz Mekouar, ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco, will visit Utah State University June 2. “The purpose of the visit is to showcase USU as a jewel in the American West that offers partnership opportunities in agriculture, ag business, software, technology, and research,” said Noelle Cockett, dean of the College of Agriculture at Utah State. “Utah State University is an ideal resource for international collaboration and provides a broad spectrum of expertise.”
English
http://www.usustatesman.com/moroccan-ambassador-to-visit-utah-state-university-1.2271778
1 June 2010
Morocco building 1.8 billion euro Tangier-Casablanca high-speed train line
As part of the special interest given by HM King Mohammed VI to large-scale projects undertaken in the Kingdom, the Sovereign endeavored to raise the funds needed to carry out the Tangier-Casablanca high-speed train (TGV), worth 20 billion dirhams (about 1.8 billion euro), a statement of the Royal Cabinet said on Sunday.
English
Signs of Economic Recovery in Morocco
The Moroccan economy is showing some positive momentum after a difficult time reacting to global economic crisis. With demand from European consumers picking up, Morocco is beginning to tally some good news.
English
http://www.north-africa.com/naj_news/news_na/1maytwentyeight45.html
Key Elements and Approaches Small and Medium Sized Enterprises Can Take to Efficiently and Effectively Tap into MENA Growth Markets
Jean AbiNader and Amine Maaouni, of the Moroccan American Trade and Investment Center, examine how small and medium sized enterprises can use the US-Morocco Free-Trade Agreement to enter MENA Markets.
English
http://www.arabbankers.org/download/123321_U127360__744340/AR_Summ_2010.pdf
Mobile Broadband, a success story in Morocco
A noticeable growth in high speed internet subscriptions has been seen in Morocco, one of key broadband national markets in Africa, according to Dataxis Intelligence.
English
27 May 2010
The successful story of mobile broadband in Morocco
Morocco, one of key broadband national markets in Africa, has been experiencing a noticeable growth in high speed internet subscriptions mainly driven by new generation mobile broadband services based on both HSDPA and EV-DO technologies.
English
http://www.openpr.com/news/133100/The-successful-story-of-mobile-broadband-in-Morocco.html
Morocco’s Foreign Direct Investments Boost Tangier Business
Morocco, famous for its sandy beaches, riad hotels and tropical climate, is now putting a premium on promoting its business climate through Foreign Direct Investments and thereby expecting an increase in Tangier investments.
English
http://www.i-newswire.com/morocco-s-foreign-direct-investments/39335
26 May 2010
Maghreb countries plan co-ordinated economic action
Algeria, Morocco, Mauritania and Tunisia will work together to tackle the region's most pressing economic issues through a new social dialogue liaison committee, union representatives said at a Rabat conference this week.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2010/05/26/feature-01
25 May 2010
WB Grants Morocco $ 90.5 mln to Support Public Administration Reform
The World Bank granted Morocco a $ 90.5 million loan to support the public administration reform program (PARAP).
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/home/wb_grants_morocco/view
24 May 2010
Morocco - Strong economy resists financial crisis
Morocco resisted the world economic downturn thanks to its macro-economic policy, said WTO deputy director-general Alejandro Jara, adding that the kingdom weathered the crisis unlike many other countries. Morocco succeeded in containing the crisis unlike many other countries, even developed ones, Jara told the daily "Aujourd'hui le Maroc", adding that this reflects Morocco's good macro-economic policy.
English
Morocco's Economic and Social Council inches closer to action
Morocco's Economic and Social Council (CES) is closer to being up and running after a meeting on Wednesday (May 19th) at which legislators drew up a list of unions that may be chosen to take part in the advisory body.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2010/05/24/feature-02
21 May 2010
Moroccan Bank Gets Strategy Prize of Africa Banking Forum 2010
Morocco's private bank Banque Marocaine du Commerce Exterieur (BMCE) received the best regional strategy Prize awarded by the second Africa Banking Forum 2010.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/moroccan_bank_gets_s/view
20 May 2010
Morocco resisted economic crisis thanks to macro-economic policy, WTO Deputy Director-General
Morocco resisted the world economic downturn thanks to its macro-economic policy, said on Thursday WTO deputy director-general Alejandro Jara, adding that the kingdom weathered the crisis unlike many developed countries.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/morocco_resisted_eco/view
19 May 2010
Moroccan-American Cooperation Brought about 'Significant' Results, Minister
Minister of Employment, Jamal Rhmani, said on Tuesday that cooperation between Moroccan and American labor departments has brought about "significant" results, notably within the framework of bilateral cooperation.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/see_also/moroccan-american_co/view
Morocco GDP highest in Maghreb, UN study finds
Morocco tops the Maghreb for economic performance indicators, according to a United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) report presented Tuesday (May 18th) in Addis Ababa. With GDP growth of 5.3% in 2009, Morocco surpassed Egypt (4.7%), Tunisia (3%), Mauritania (2.3%), Algeria (2.1%) and Libya (1.8%).
English
18 May 2010
Moroccan economy to maintain its momentum in 2010, Minister says
The Moroccan economy is expected to maintain its momentum in 2010 thanks to the sustained growth of public investments and gradual mitigation of the negative effects resulting from a reduction of external demand in 2009, Minister of Economy and Finance, Salaheddine Mezouar, said Tuesday.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/moroccan_economy_to/view
17 May 2010
Schneider Electric, Solairedirect Interested in Morocco's Solar Energy Sector
Experts from Schneider Electric and Solairedirect visited Morocco on May 12-15 to enquire about the Kingdom's energy strategy and present their projects to Moroccan decision makers.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/home/schneider_electric2328/view
13 May 2010
Morocco’s economy saved itself from crisis, says IMF
Morocco has suffered little from the global economic crisis due to an economy that is diversified and the rising information technology sector in the country, the International Monetary Fund Managing Director Dominique Strauss-Kahn said Wednesday.
English
http://bikyamasr.com/wordpress/?p=12472
Morocco calls for new fund to support common investments
Morocco's Economy and Finance Minister Salaheddine Mezouar has called on Maghreban businessmen to create a fund for supporting Maghreban companies' common investments.
English
http://www.menafn.com/qn_news_story_s.asp?storyid=1093333023
Morocco launches thermo-solar power plant
The facility is expected to generate an annual average yield of 3,538 GWh and cover approximately 13% of Morocco's electricity needs. The plant is reportedly the first such facility in Africa.
English
AfDB lends Morocco $334 mln for drinking water project
The African Development Bank (AfDB) said on Thursday it lent Morocco $334 million to finance a drinking water supply project.
English
http://af.reuters.com/article/investingNews/idAFJOE64C0QD20100513
11 May 2010
IFC Congratulates Moroccan BMCE Bank on Adopting Equator Principles
IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, welcomes the announcement by BMCE Bank, Banque Marocaine du Commerce Exterieur, that it has become the 68th financial institution to adopt the Equator Principles.
English
Morocco calls for creating investment support fund for Maghreb enterprises
Moroccan Economy Minister Salaheddine Mezouar called on Maghreb businessmen to set up an investment support fund for Maghreb enterprises.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/see_also/morocco_calls_for_cr/view
10 May 2010
40% cost reduction - Morocco Phosphates Company improves productivity
Morocco's state phosphates company (Office Chérifien des Phosphates - OCP) forecasts to slash production costs by 30 to 40% to reach less 10 dollars per tonne, the company's director general Mostafa Terrab told Jeune Afrique magazine.
English
Morocco pledges billions to tackle climate change
A raft of sustainability initiatives have been announced by Morocco in a move that could cement the country's reputation as the environmental pioneer of the Arab world.
English
Maroc Telecom revenues rises 4.3% (Morocco)
Consolidated revenues of MAD7.437 billion (USD858 million) has been reported by Moroccan telecoms group Maroc Telecom in the first quarter of 2010, reflecting an increase of 4.3% compared to the same period in 2009.
English
http://wirelessfederation.com/news/25405-maroc-telecom-revenues-rises-4.3-morocco/
Morocco Calls on Arab Companies to Contribute to Morocco's Solar Energy Project
Energy minister Amina Benkhadra called, here Sunday, on Arab companies to contribute to Morocco's large-scale solar energy project, launched in November 2009.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/home/morocco_calls_on_ara7964/view
6 May 2010
Morocco light bulb project cuts energy consumption
Morocco's new energy-efficient light bulb programme has already led to a 170MW drop in energy consumption during the busiest hours of the day, Energy Minister Amina Benkhadra told legislators, ANSA reported on Wednesday (May 5th).
English
Morocco launches $288 mln urban development project in Oujda
HM King Mohammed VI of Morocco has launched construction works of the first phase of the urban development project in the eastern city of Oujda, to be carried out for a total cost of 2.5 billion dirhams ($288 mln).
English
5 May 2010
Morocco 2nd in Arab world for internet users
Morocco ranked second in the Arab world, after Egypt, for the growth rate of internet users in 2009, MAP reported on Tuesday (May 4th), citing a Google survey.
English
4 May 2010
Crédit Agricole 2009 net profit rose 53%
The net profit of Morocco's banking group Crédit Agricole increased by 53% in 2009 compared to the previous year, member of the directors' board of the bank Karim Tajmouati said.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/credit_agricole_2009/view
IFC to support large Moroccan desalination project
The International Finance Corporation (IFC), part of the World Bank, signed an agreement on 4 May 2010 with the government of Morocco to support private investment in a new desalination and irrigation plant that will help improve the water supply to a vital agricultural region.
English
3 May 2010
Royal Air Maroc rises to the challenge
The planned introduction of Boeing 787-8 and ATR 42-600 and ATR72-600 equipment next year graphically illustrates continuing investment by Royal Air Maroc (RAM) as it works to compete in a recently liberalised market.
English
30 April 2010
Entrepreneurship in Morocco - A Model of Success in North Africa
Morocco is an excellent model as Moroccan entrepreneurs achieve a high level of success and the country has a good business climate, Hamod told MAP on the sidelines of the launch of "Al-Mubadarah: Arab empowerment initiative", an initiative that aims at strengthening links between Arab entrepreneurs and their American peers.
English
Morocco - 30% growth in agriculture sector last 4 years
The agricultural gross domestic product (AGDP) reached 115 billion dirhams in 2009, that is an increase of 30% compared to 2005, Morocco Agriculture Minister, Aziz Akhannouch told the Moroccan News Agency.
English
http://www.freshplaza.com/news_detail.asp?id=62681
29 April 2010
Morocco to create new financial hub
Morocco will create a new financial hub in Casablanca to make the city more attractive to international investors.
English
http://www.menafn.com/qn_news_story_s.asp?StoryId=1093326645
Morocco committed to promoting business climate, FDIs, diplomat
Morocco places the promotion of the business climate and Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) among its top priorities, Morocco's Ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva, Omar Hilale said on Wednesday.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/home/morocco_committed_to/view
28 April 2010
Morocco - 30% growth in agriculture sector last 4 years
The agricultural gross domestic product (AGDP) reached 115 billion dirhams in 2009, that is an increase of 30% compared to 2005, Morocco Agriculture Minister, Aziz Akhannouch told Moroccan News Agency.
English
Morocco Promoting Foreign Direct Investments
Morocco places the promotion of the business climate and Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) among its top priorities, Morocco's Ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva, Omar Hilale told reporters.
English
27 April 2010
Treasury director holds talks in Washington with WB and IMF officials
The Treasury director Zouhair Chorfi held, on Saturday in Washington, a series of talks with officials from the World Bank (WB) and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), as part of the annual spring meetings of these two international financial institutions.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/see_also/treasury_director_ho/view
FAO supports Morocco’s forest programme
Morocco and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) signed, on Monday in Rabat, a $994,000 agreement on technical support for the kingdom’s forest programme.
English
26 April 2010
'Open budget' plan may shed light on Morocco's finances
Moroccans may soon get an unprecedented look into their country's finances, if a just-announced "open budget" initiative gets off the ground.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2010/04/23/feature-02
23 April 2010
Morocco invites bids for solar power station: CEO
Morocco is inviting would-be investors to express their interests next month to build the country's first solar power station as part of a $9 billion solar energy project, the chief executive officer of the Moroccan Agency for Solar Energy (MASEN) said on Thursday.
English
22 April 2010
Economic reforms sheltered Morocco from financial crisis, ANIMA
Thanks to its economic reforms, Morocco stands among the few Mediterranean countries which were sheltered from the repercussions of the international financial crisis, General Delegate of ANIMA Investment Network Bénédict de Saint-Laurent said on Wednesday.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/economic_reforms_she/view
21 April 2010
Morocco reduces the cost of land by 20%
The Rabat Executive has launched a new phase of the "Green Morocco Plan" to ensure the placement of a total of 21,000 hectares of farmland between investors, which will enjoy significant tax advantages and a price cut of 20 % compared with current levels of the sector in the neighboring country.
English
http://www.freshplaza.com/news_detail.asp?id=62246
20 April 2010
The Rise in Popularity of The Oil of Argan
Argan oil is associated with the seeds of the argan tree. It's native land is in Southwestern Morocco. You can find lots of uses for this oil and also for other products from the argan tree, and demand is normally high for genuine argan products.
English
http://health.gather.com/viewArticle.action?articleId=281474978183973
Euro-Med partnership success depends on Maghreb integration, FM says
The success of Euro-Mediterranean partnership and cooperation depends on achieving Maghreb integration, Morocco's Foreign minister Taib Fassi Fihri said.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/regional/euro-med_partnership/view
19 April 2010
Morocco sees export recovery boosting growth
Morocco’s economy would grow this year by more than the 3.5 percent forecast by the government earlier mainly because of a recovery in exports and good cereals harvest, the industry and trade minister said.
English
http://www.dailymirror.lk/print/index.php/business/107-international/8390.html
16 April 2010
Morocco leases farmland to reform agriculture
Morocco is inviting bids from foreign and domestic investors to lease 21,000 hectares of farmland as part of its farm reform plans, the chief executive officer of the government-run Farming Development Agency said.
English
http://af.reuters.com/article/investingNews/idAFJOE63E07X20100415
Morocco forecasts around $57bn in tourism revenues in 2010
Moroccan tourism minister Yassir Znagui said that overall tourism revenues are forecast to amount to 465 billion dirhams ($56.4billion) in 2010. The minister said, at a meeting with productive-sector commission in the House of Representatives, that more than one million tourists visited the kingdom in the first two months of 2010, 14% up from the same period a year earlier.
English
13 April 2010
Morocco, among few countries to achieve MDGs by 2015 - HCP
Morocco is among the few countries that will achieve the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) by 2015, head of Morocco's statistics office Haut Commissariat au Plan (HCP), Ahmed Lahlimi Alami said on Tuesday.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/morocco_among_few_c/view
29 March 2010
New hotels promised as Morocco tourism recovers
In a boost to Morocco's burgeoning tourism market, the owner of the Ramada hotel group has announced that it plans to construct eight properties in the North African country.
English
Morocco: Franchise sector grows 18% annually
Official data showed that Morocco's franchise sector has registered over the last decade an average annual growth of about 18 percent, Morocco Business News reported.
English
http://www.menafn.com/qn_news_story_s.asp?StoryId=1093317433
25 March 2010
Morocco achieved since 2007 MDGs' targets in terms of fighting poverty, ambassador
Morocco has achieved since 2007 the targets of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) in terms of fighting poverty, Morocco's permanent representative to the UN, Mohamed Loulichki, said on Wednesday.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/social/morocco_achieved_sin/view
24 March 2010
Morocco looks to double Casablanca listings
The Moroccan government is offering tax rebates to companies as part of a broader drive to double the number of listings on the Casablanca Stock Exchange by 2015.
English
http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/fa9e5860-3763-11df-9176-00144feabdc0.html
23 March 2010
Standard & Poor's Raises Morocco Rating On Improving Economic Flexibility
Standard & Poor's Ratings Services said today that it has raised its long-term foreign currency sovereign credit rating on the Kingdom of Morocco to 'BBB-' from 'BB+', and its long-term local currency sovereign credit rating to 'BBB+' from 'BBB'.
English
Morocco: Denso to construct new plant in Tangier
Denso has announced it will establish a new company in Tangier, Northern Morocco on 1 April 2010. The new company - Denso Thermal Systems Morocco S.A.R.L. - will produce car air conditioning systems.
English
22 March 2010
Marrakech’s La Mamounia
“During the season, the Mamounia is just a little harder to get into than heaven,” says a character in Paul Bowles’ 1952 novel Let It Come Down. Since then, the most celebrated hotel in the ancient Moroccan city of Marrakech has undergone a succession of refits and enlargements, not all pleasing. But its reopening late last year after a three-year revamp returns it to the realm of the angels.
English
http://www.ft.com/cms/s/2/668e9e3e-32de-11df-bf5f-00144feabdc0.html
Morocco enjoying its 'low-risk' property market
The property market in Morocco is benefiting from the fact it managed to escape the worst of the global economic crisis as high demand from investors and second home buyers boosts its profile.
English
19 March 2010
Morocco: A sunny disposition
DESPITE an unusually rainy February, Morocco is not generally short of sunshine. Its government wants to exploit the good weather by spending $9 billion to build five solar-power plants capable of producing around 40% of the kingdom's energy by 2020. Foreign investors have been bidding to build the first plant, near Ouarzazate, south of the Atlas mountains.
English
http://www.economist.com/world/middle-east/displaystory.cfm?story_id=15712452
An account of the Microfinance and New Technology summit in Marrakech
After the first Microfinance and New Technology summit in New Delhi, PlaNet Finance organized the second Microfinance and New Technology Summit in Marrakech, Morocco on March 11th and 12th, 2010. Morocco is one of the countries with a great surge in Microfinance and includes organizations in the top 20 of the world.
English
Royal Dar es Salam: Morocco's golfing jewel in the capital city of Rabat
A new addition to the European Tour schedule, this week's King Hassan II Trophy is hardly a new event, founded 37 years ago when Billy Casper put together a small field of pros to compete in the capital city of Rabat.
English
http://www.thegolfchannel.com/core.aspx?page=15121&select=35562
15 March 2010
Manufacturing production index increased 3.8 % in 2009 Q4
The production index of manufacturing industries increased 3.8 % in the fourth quarter of 2009 compared to the same period in 2008, Morocco's High Planning Commission reported on Monday.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/home/manufacturing_produc/view
12 March 2010
Morocco's Credit Agricole sees strong growth in 2010
Morocco's Credit Agricole, the country's fourth largest in terms of assets, will remain on a strong growth path this year after profit jumped 36 percent in 2009, its chief executive officer said on Wednesday.
English
http://af.reuters.com/article/investingNews/idAFJOE62A02Q20100311
Marrakech 'shoppers' haven'
Imaginative explorers hoping for some retail therapy while they are on holiday might be interested in a trip to Marrakech. The Moroccan city is described by Lonely Planet as being "packed with mind-boggling distractions" and there could be another one on its way for keen shoppers.
English
http://www.imaginative-traveller.com/news/Marrakech-shoppers-haven/026624
Renewable energy turning Morocco into green future
With wind, sun and space to spare, Morocco is better endowed than most countries in terms of renewable energy potential. The impetus to go green has also never been stronger, as the energy-importing nation has seen its domestic demand steadily rise.
English
World Bank hails Morocco's water, sanitation policy
The World Bank (WB) has hailed Morocco's water and sanitation policy, expecting it to exceed the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) in this respect.
English
http://www.menafn.com/qn_news_story_s.asp?storyid=1093313013
Records Grain Harvest In Morocco
Morocco looks set to post near-record harvests of its major grain crops in the 2009/10 crop year.
English
http://www.officialwire.com/main.php?action=posted_news&rid=111074&catid=290
10 March 2010
Moroccan King calls for going beyond free trade area
Morocco and the EU reaffirmed, at the end of their first summit, their commitment to establish a common economic area, marked by an advanced integration of the Moroccan economy in the EU's.
English
http://www.menafn.com/qn_news_story_s.asp?StoryId=1093312305
Energy diversification, strong sign of Morocco's will to secure sustainable development, official
Energy diversification is a strong sign of Morocco's will to secure its sustainable development, Energy Minister Amina Benkhadra said Wednesday in Paris.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/energy_diversificati/view
9 March 2010
Morocco on track to exceed MDG targets for water and sanitation services, WB says
"Morocco is now on track to exceed the targets for water and sanitation services contained in the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), thanks to greater public spending on water supply and sanitation infrastructure," the World Bank said in a note on Morocco.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/morocco_on_track_to/view
Working Maghreb women spur economic development, forum says
"Research has proven that women in Tunisia, Morocco and Algeria do extremely well. They are capable of managing businesses, and a society becomes disabled if it depends only on its male gender," said Leila Khaiat, Vice-President of the Tunisian Union for Industry, Commerce and Cottage Industries.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2010/03/07/feature-01
8 March 2010
Maghreb Steel commissions new hot rolling plant
Casablanca, Morocco-based steelmaker Maghreb Steel (MS) has announced that it produced its first hot rolled coils at its new Stackel mill at the start of February.
English
European Commission Pres. calls for common economic zone between Morocco, EU
European Commission President José Manuel Durao Barroso urged, Saturday in Granada, the establishment of a large Euro-Mediterranean free trade zone and the expansion of the European domestic market to Morocco for the benefit of the two parties' businesses.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/european_commission/view
Morocco: Between growth and development
Morocco has been undergoing much economic hustle for the last decade. The central objective of this is to make up for the economic delay, narrow the enormous social disparities and give rise to a true middle class, which is the motor of development in any country.
English
http://www.menafn.com/qn_news_story_s.asp?StoryId=1093311268&src=MOEN
5 March 2010
ADB grants Morocco €53 million loan
The African Development Bank (ADB) loaned Morocco, on Thursday, 53.59 million euros to fund national irrigation programme.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/adb_grants_morocco/view
4 March 2010
Prime real estate in Morocco offers a solid investment
According to leading international agent Knight Frank, luxury and prime property in Morocco, particularly in the cosmopolitan city of Marrakech, is in high demand from discerning professional investors and second home owners from around the globe.
English
http://www.albawaba.com/en/countries/Morocco/262218
Ambassador: Morocco Open for Trade, Investment
As Morocco's ambassador to the United States since 2002, Aziz Mekouar has seen a positive trend in trade relations since the two countries entered into a free trade agreement midway through his tenure.
English
http://www.globalatlanta.com/articlevid/23786/841/
Morocco port modernization project to begin in Nador
Morocco will invest some 354 million euros through 2014 to modernise the country's ports, Mediterranean press reported on Tuesday (March 2nd).
English
Morocco-US cooperation has been deep for many years, US Presidential Envoy Says
The Moroccan-US cooperation has been "deep for many years and in many areas," US Presidential Science Envoy, Elias Zerhouni, said Thursday in Rabat.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/world/morocco-us_cooperati/view
Algeria's responsibility in Tindouf camps is 'inalienable', Ambassador
Algeria's responsibility in Tindouf camps remains "indivisible, nontransferable and inalienable," until the closure of these camps and the return of its population to their home land, Morocco, the Kingdom's Ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva Omar Hilale said on Wednesday.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/see_also/algera_s_responsibil/view
3 March 2010
HM the King chairs signing ceremony of two agreements on Tangier-city port
HM King Mohammed VI chaired, on Wednesday in the northern city of Tangier, the signing ceremony of two agreements on redeveloping the port of Tangier city.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/main1/hm_the_king_chairs_s/view
2 March 2010
Morocco's biggest bank net profit rises 26.4% in 2009
Morocco's biggest bank, Attijariwafa Bank said that its net profit rose 26.4% in 2009 compared to 2008 to stand at 3.9 billion dirhams (some $472 mln).
English
2 March 2010
EU to grant Morocco over € 580 mln for 2011-2013 period
The European Union will grant Morocco some 580.5 million Euros for the period 2011-2013 within the framework of the European Neighborhood Policy (ENP), said on Tuesday the European Commission.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/eu_to_grant_morocco/view
1 March 2010
ITU highlights Morocco's 'considerable progress' in ICTs
The Geneva-based International Telecommunication Union (ITU) highlighted, in a report issued on Tuesday, Morocco's progress in terms of information and communication technologies (ICTs).
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/see_also/itu_highlights_moroc/view
25 February 2010
Surge predicted in Moroccan mobile use
A third operator and projected three-fold expansion in 3G internet and e-commerce may cause a boom in Morocco's mobile phone business in 2010.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2010/02/25/feature-03
24 February 2010
SkinBotanica.com Introduces Kae Argatherapie with Argan Oil
Known as “The Gold of Morocco,” Argan Oil is the basis of the Kae Argatherapie skin care line. Argan Oil has been used for centuries by Moroccan women for its healing and anti-aging properties.
English
http://www.transworldnews.com/NewsStory.aspx?id=211586&cat=10
24 February 2010
Now Reserving | Azar in Marrakesh
During the last 20 years, this sultry southern Moroccan city has become an almost manically popular destination for Western travelers craving the quickening of somewhere soi-disant exotic as an antidote to hometowns afflicted by the modern plagues of plastic and franchised muffler shops.
English
http://tmagazine.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/02/24/now-reserving-azar-in-marrakesh/
24 February 2010
Calls grow for Maghreb economic integration
Maghreb countries should abandon protectionism in order to boost lagging regional trade, according to participants in a recent conference on economic integration organized by Tunisia's Foreign Ministry.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2010/02/24/feature-02
23 February 2010
Wana launches 3rd mobile operator in Morocco
A new GSM mobile service, Inwi has been launched by Moroccan operator Wana. The third mobile operator in Morocco will cover three-quarters of the population. The GSM license was awarded to Wana in early 2009.
English
http://wirelessfederation.com/news/22524-wana-launches-3rd-mobile-operator-in-morocco/
23 February 2010
Morocco, EU relations discussed in Rabat
Morocco and the Council of Europe held a two-day seminar in Rabat to discuss co-operation between countries from both shores of the Mediterranean, local and international press reported on Monday (February 22nd). The event, held for the first time in a non-European country, included the signing of agreements in health, youth, sports and other sectors.
English
22 February 2010
Arab Maghreb Union: towards the creation of a Maghrebi university and a research website
During a meeting held recently in Morocco to study the prospects of development of new technologies in the Maghribi regions, the means to establish a network of North African scientific research on priority development including alternative and renewable energies were the focal points of the Ministerial committee of senior officials of higher education in countries of the Arab Maghreb Union (AMU).
English
http://www.tunisiaonlinenews.com/?p=34197
19 February 2010
Ministers seek greater private-sector role in AFTA
More businesses in the private sector need to participate in the Agadir Free Trade Agreement (AFTA), Maghreb and Arab finance ministers said at a February 17th-18th meeting in Rabat.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2010/02/19/feature-01
19 February 2010
Tangier Med port, 'striking example' of Morocco's economic dynamism, French paper
Operational since 2007, this port aspires to become the first in Africa in terms of containers handled, the paper underlined, highlighting the strong presence of French companies in "Tangier Free Zone" (TFZ) despite the competition of the Spanish firms which benefit from the geographical proximity to Morocco.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/tangier_med_port__s/view
18 February 2010
New Morocco railroad giving Tangier investments a huge boost
Immobilier Tanger, the influential real estate database in Tangier, saw the great potentials of the new Morocco railway in giving a huge boost to Tangier investments. Now that development in Tangier is on the rise, it is expected to give a big boost to its investment potentials.
English
http://www.i-newswire.com/new-morocco-railroad-giving-tangier/22776
17 February 2010
IMF: Morocco economy maintaining confidence
The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) concluded a consultation with Morocco and discussed with officials the country's economic developments and policies.
English
17 February 2010
Morocco's organic farming is growing
On a 50-acre farmstead outside the country’s capital, the scene did little to evoke agriculture on the cutting edge: Two lanky men in mud boots labored across a loamy field.
English
http://www.freshplaza.com/news_detail.asp?id=58952
17 February 2010
Morocco launches $206 mln fund to boost industry
Morocco unveiled on Wednesday a 1.7 billion dirham fund (some $206 mln) to give more competitive edge to the kingdom's key-industrial sectors.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/morocco_launches_20/view
16 February 2010
Pharmacists call for Maghreb-wide drug market
A joint Maghreb market would "reduce cost and unify [drug] manufacturing as well," a health ministry official said at a recent conference in Tunis.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2010/02/10/feature-02
16 February 2010
World Bank to double loans to Morocco to $2.4 bln
The World Bank plans to double loans to Morocco to $2.4 billion through 2013 to support the country's efforts to reduce mass poverty and spur growth, Moroccan government and bank officials said on Tuesday.
English
http://af.reuters.com/article/topNews/idAFJOE61F0GU20100216
16 February 2010
Morocco's organic farming is growing
Organic farmer Mustapha Belhacha has joined what may be Morocco’s first association dedicated to Community-Supported Agriculture, or CSA. The group’s founders aim to change the way farming is done in this North African nation.
English
http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/morocco/100213/moroccos-organic-farming-growing
12 February 2010
Morocco, US to strengthen cooperation
Morocco and the United States agree to cooperate in the protection of the environment and the promotion of sustainable development.
English
http://www.menafn.com/qn_news_story_s.asp?StoryId=1093304205
12 February 2010
Morocco's Renewable Energy Ambitions
To get a feel for Morocco's green energy potential, simply stand beneath the sun on the blistering sands of the Sahara Desert or pay a visit to the windswept town of Essaouira, a popular seaside resort on the Atlantic coast, about a 100 miles west of the storied city of Marrakech. In both places, the former French colony's solar and wind power possibilities are quite obvious.
English
http://www.energyboom.com/emerging/moroccos-renewable-energy-ambitions
12 February 2010
A new strategy to strengthen World Bank partnership with the Kingdom of Morocco
A new Partnership Strategy for Morocco has been approved by the Board of Executive Directors of the World Bank. Entitled Country Partnership Strategy (CPS), defines the pillars of the development program, where the Government of Morocco, the World Bank and the International Financial Corporation will be working in partnership.
English
12 February 2010
TomTom Expands into Morocco
TomTom, the world’s leading provider of navigation solutions and digital maps, today announces that it is expanding into Morocco. TomTom is entering the market with two products: the mid-range TomTom XL (including maps from Morocco and Europe) and the entry-level TomTom Start (including maps from Morocco).
English
http://www.auto-mobi.info/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=15780&Itemid=50
12 February 2010
Study reveals the fastest internet connection in Africa…Morocco
According to a report on Internet connectivity worldwide, published by Akamai, a US company specializing in managing Internet, the best connection in Africa can be found in Morocco, with a connection speed of 3251 kilobits per second (Kbps).
English
http://www.itnewsafrica.com/?p=4874
4 February 2010
Maghreb Steel launches new project during January 2010
Arab Steel reported that the new project for the hot production of steel in Morocco owned by Maghreb Steel is due to launch in January 2010.
English
http://steelguru.com/news/index/MTMxMzY1/Maghreb_Steel_launches_new_project_during_January_2010.html
3 February 2010
Over 8 million tourists visited Morocco in 2009
Some 8.34 million tourists visited Morocco in 2009, that is a 6 % rise compared to 2008, said the Tourism Department.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/over_8_million_touri9271/view
2 February 2010
Telvent to Implement Light Rail Priority System in Morocco
Telvent, the IT company for a sustainable and secure world, announced today that the Company will implement its Telvent SmartMobility(TM) Light Rail solution in the new light rail system that will connect the Moroccan cities of Rabat and Sale.
English
http://money.cnn.com/news/newsfeeds/articles/globenewswire/183312.htm
2 February 2010
Morocco begins process to acquire high-speed train
The Moroccan authorities announced Monday that the work to implement the first high speed train (TGV) in the country is expected to start in June for a total budget of about US$3 billion (20 billion dirhams).
English
http://www.apanews.net/apa.php?page=show_article_eng&id_article=117239
2 February 2010
Renewable energy: UK keen to promote strategic partnership with Morocco, official
The United Kingdom is keen to promote a strategic partnership with Morocco in the field of energy, British Secretary of State for Energy Lord Philip Hunt told MAP on Tuesday. We are resolved to work with the Moroccan government to develop new energy resources, the minister said on the sidelines of a conference in the British parliament on the Desertec project.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/renewable_energy__uk/view
1 February 2010
Morocco's experience in streamlining the public sector
The Government of Morocco designed and implemented an ambitious voluntary retirement program (VRP) in 2005—the only example of its type in the MENA region. More than 39,000 employees (7.6 percent of civil servants) elected to benefit from this program and left the public sector.
English
1 February 2010
Circle Oil signs new Moroccan permits
Circle Oil's wholly-owned subsidiary Circle Oil Maroc has signed a petroleum agreement with the Office National des Hydrocarbures et des Mines. The agreement covers the 'Lalla Mimouna Nord' and 'Lalla Mimouna Sud' exploration permits situated in the Rharb Basin, Morocco.
English
http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/articles/20100201/circle-oil-signs-new-moroccan-permits.htm
1 February 2010
Morocco, IDB sign over $50-mn drinking water supply agreements
Morocco's national water utility (ONEP) and the Islamic Development Bank (IDB) signed, on Sunday in Rabat, agreements worth 50.3 million dollars to finance projects to supply the northern city of Fez and the rural areas of the eastern province of Taza with drinking water.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/morocco_idb_sign_ov/view
28 January 2010
Over 40,000 visitors to attend int’l air show in Morocco
Over 40,000 visitors are expected in Morocco to attend the international show of aeronautics industries and services “Aeroexpo 2010”, which was officially opened on Wednesday evening in the central city of Marrakesh, in the presence of some 400 exhibitors.
English
http://www.apanews.net/apa.php?page=show_article_eng&id_article=116827
28 January 2010
World Bank loan targets Moroccan SMEs
The World Bank granted a $200 million loan to Morocco. The funding aims to preserve the banking sector's stability, expand lending to households and SMEs, and help what the WB called one of the "best-performing" and most resilient economies in the MENA region.
English
28 January 2010
Morocco conference to focus on new technologies in microfinance
PlaNet Finance, the Banque Populaire Group and Sogeti will organize the Second Global Conference on Microfinance and New Technologies on March 11 and 12, 2010 in Marrakech.
English
27 January 2010
Government adopted series of measures to protect citizens' purchasing power, Minister
The government has adopted a series of juridical and institutional measures to enforce price control and protect citizens' purchasing power, Minister of Economic and General Affairs, Nizar Baraka, said on Tuesday.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/government_adopted_s/view
26 January 2010
Activists, politicians offer input on Morocco's environmental charter
Morocco is consulting with political and environmental groups about the first draft of the country's environmental charter, which targets preserving the environment and fostering sustainable development.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2010/01/26/feature-02
26 January 2010
Foreign investments in cinema in Morocco reached $ 50 million in 2009
Foreign investments in cinema reached $ 52 million in Morocco in 2009, Director of the Moroccan film centre Noureddine Sail said on Sunday.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/see_also/foreign_investments/view
25 January 2010
Morocco looks to lure informal sector out of the shadows
Morocco is stepping up efforts to make law-abiding taxpayers out of the retailers and service providers in its informal economy, according to Trade and Industry Minister Ahmed Reda Chami.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2010/01/25/feature-02
25 January 2010
FRANCE’S BNK PARIBAS OPENS PRIVATE BANK IN MOROCCO, FIRST IN MAGHREB REGION
French bank BNP Paribas, the Euro zone’s biggest bank in terms of deposits, has launched its private bank in Morocco, the first in the Maghreb region, to serve private clients, business owners and entrepreneurs.
English
25 January 2010
What's New in the EU: EU reaches out to Mediterranean via Morocco
The European Union and Morocco held the eighth meeting of their Association Council last month, marking a new stage in the development of relations between Morocco and the European Union.
English
http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?cid=1263147960835&pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull
22 January 2010
Marrakech-Menara airport among top 13 World's Most Beautiful Airports, US paper
The Marrakech-Menara Airport was listed by U.S. Travel and Leisure Magazine among the world's thirteen most beautiful airports alongside with the airports of Denver, Hong Kong and the TWA Terminal John F. Kennedy in New York.
English
http://www.travelandleisure.com/articles/worlds-most-beautiful-airports/9
21 January 2010
Morocco's economic performance has been steady in recent years, US report says
Morocco's economic performance has been steady in recent years, sustained by reform measures focused on competitiveness and diversification of the productive base, says the US think-thank the Heritage Foundation in its 2010 Index of Economic Freedom.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/morocco_s_economic_p/view
21 January 2010
Morocco hopes to shine in mega solar project
Morocco has launched what it claims is the biggest solar-thermal energy project in a single country, aiming to produce nearly 40 per cent of its electricity needs — 2,000 megawatts (MW) — by 2020.
English
http://www.environmental-expert.com/resultEachPressRelease.aspx?cid=33596&codi=79567&lr=1
20 January 2010
Hybrid 470 MW solar-gas plant in Morocco
Abener and Abengoa Solar are in the process of completing the 470 MW ISCC hybrid solar-gas power plant in Ain Bni Mathar, Morocco.
English
http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/6609/hybrid-470-mw-solargas-plant-in-morocco/
19 January 2010
Morocco to launch Regional debate on National Environmental Charter
The National Charter for the Environment and Sustainable Development will be debated at the regional level starting January 18, Energy minister Amina Benkhadra said on Thursday.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/regional/morocco_to_launch_re/view
19 January 2010
Morocco to invest $ 7.5 bln in low cost housing in 2010-2020
Morocco will invest 60 billion dirhams ($ 7.5 billion) in low cost housing in 2010-2020 as part of efforts aiming to reduce the deficit to 700,000 units by 2015, Housing minister Ahmed Taoufiq Hejira said.
English
19 January 2010
Moroccan Beauty Secret - Eden Allure Argan Oil Now Available Across Canada
Argan oil, a natural beauty product traditionally used by Moroccan women, will now be available in Canada. Known as "liquid gold," argan oil is one of the most exotic, rare, and beneficial oils on the planet. This organic oil is produced exclusively in southwestern Morocco, and has been used by the women of the local Berber tribe for centuries.
English
http://www.prweb.com/releases/argan-oil/eden-allure/prweb3459914.htm
19 January 2010
Morocco renews commitment to eradicating corruption
Recently-appointed Minister for Public Sector Modernisation Mohammed Saâd Alami has embraced his new position by vowing to curtail corruption in Morocco.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2010/01/17/feature-01
19 January 2010
Barcelo to Manage New Hotel in Morocco
Barcelo Hotels & Resorts just recently signed an agreement with the Moroccan firm Interedec to manage the five-star Barcelo Marina Smir, a beachfront property located between the towns of Fnideq and M'diq in the province of Tangiers.
English
http://www.eventplannerspain.com/news-events-Spain/1282/Barcelo-to-Manage-New-Hotel-in-Morocco
19 January 2010
In Morocco, television finally reaches out to Berbers
'Watch more television' may become the order of the day in Morocco's Berber households after the first TV channel in their ancient but marginalised tongue, Amazigh, was launched after a decades-long struggle.
English
19 January 2010
Morocco targets 10 pct tourism growth in 2010
Morocco aims to draw 10 percent more visitors this year to help fill fast-growing hotel capacity and bolster tourism income after it slipped in 2009, industry and government officials said.
French
http://af.reuters.com/article/investingNews/idAFJOE60F07C20100116
13 January 2010
First money transfer service for Morocco
Maroc telecom has launched Mobicash, Morocco's first trials of mobile debit payment service. This first service of money transfer and payment by cell phone has been the object of an agreement signed between Morocco Telecom operators and Attijariwafa bank and the Central 'Banque Populaire'.
English
http://www.africanews.com/site/First_money_transfer_service_for_Morocco/list_messages/29314
13 January 2010
Moroccan Economy to Grow 4.1% This Year, Government Forecasts
Morocco’s economic growth will slow to 4.1 percent this year as weaker expansion in the agricultural industry offsets a pick-up in demand for exports, High Planning Commissioner Ahmed Lahlimi Alami said yesterday.
English
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601116&sid=a67FbfjE0j8M
12 January 2010
Morocco's Manufacturing Production Index Increases 2.1% in November
Morocco's production index of manufacturing industries increased 2.1% in November compared to October, the High Planning Commission said. The increase was due mainly to a 9.4% increase in oil refining and 0.9% in metal industries.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/morocco_s_manufactur/view
8 January 2010
Morocco allocates $220 million to combat drop-out -minister
Morocco's Education Minister announced, on Friday, that a budget of 1.73 billion DH ($220 million) has been allocated this year "to tackle the socio-economic obstacles to education for a large number of children, against 760 million last year".
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/social/morocco_allocates_2/view
7 January 2010
Visiting Taghazout, Morocco - WSJ.com
Taghazout, pronounced 'Ta-ra-zoot,' is a small, Berber fishing village about 20 kilometers north of Agadir surrounded by rolling, scrub-covered hills. The attraction for visitors: the surf.
English
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703882804574642260029960776.html
6 January 2010
America’s Heartland Goes To Morocco and Egypt
A bakery in Egypt churning out thousands of loaves of bread a day, a California hair stylist using the hottest new product on the market and a Moroccan farmer changing the way he raises his cattle. Yes, they are all connected to American farming!
English
http://www.americasheartland.org/episodes/episode_518/index.htm
6 January 2010
Morocco to invite bids for solar station in Feb
Morocco will invite bids for construction of its first solar power station at the end of next month as part of a $9 billion solar energy project, its energy minister said on Wednesday.
English
http://uk.reuters.com/article/idUKLDE6051TV20100106
6 January 2010
Parliament considers new funding for Moroccan affordable housing
Morocco's efforts to create affordable housing could receive a much-needed shot in the arm by way of the 2010 Finance Bill, which appears set to include a re-launch plan for the troubled sector.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/politics/pm_receives_us_congr/view
4 January 2010
Cargotec develops Africa gateway with Moroccan buyout
Cargotec has acquired the port service and equipment segment of its Moroccan dealer Maghrepic S.A.
English
22 December 2009
5TH PAN AFRICAN LOCAL GOVT SUMMIT ENDS IN MARRAKECH
The 5th Pan-African Local Government Summit (Africities) has ended here with the participants stressing the need for an African response to the global financial crisis.
English
http://world.brunei.fm/2009/12/21/5th-pan-african-local-govt-summit-ends-in-marrakech/
22 December 2009
Somerville mayor visiting potential sister city in Morocco
Mayor Joseph Curtatone is in Tiznit, Morocco, to establish a sister city relationship with the leaders of that community.
English
http://www.boston.com/yourtown/news/somerville/2009/12/somerville_mayor_visiting_new.html
22 December 2009
Morocco fosters solar energy in Copenhagen
Morocco, a "bronzed" country, in solar terms and whose environmental degradation costs over US$ 1 billion annually, a high bill for a country that is struggling to eradicate poverty, has initiated a solar project to overcome certain effects of climate change.
English
17 December 2009
Hewlett-Packard eyes Africa for customer support
"We see Africa as a potential base for providing all sort of services and technical support for customers outside of Africa," managing director Rainer Koch told Reuters on the sidelines of conference in the Moroccan city of Marrakesh on development of African cities.
English
http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE5BG4H120091217?type=technologyNews
17 December 2009
Morocco plans fund to boost hotels, tourism
Morocco is taking steps to help local hotels through the creation of the Renovotel 2010 fund, to be launched next year, local media reported on Wednesday (December 16th).
English
9 December 2009
Morocco unveils programmes to support SMEs
The Moroccan government is taking fresh steps to support beleaguered local businesses, which are a key part of the national economy. Two new programmes by the National Agency for the Promotion of Small and Medium Enterprises (ANPME) are intended to boost competitiveness in the struggling sector.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2009/12/09/feature-02
9 December 2009
Moroccan Villagers Make Their Desert Bloom
The edge of the Sahara desert seems an unlikely spot for an organic farm, but that didn't stop a group of poor villagers in the village of Hart Chaou, 300 kilometers southeast of Marrakesh, from planting one. The Moroccan community farm could be a model for other drought-prone regions.
English
9 December 2009
Morocco to produce 40% of its energy from renewable sources by 2020, official says
Morocco will produce 40 pc of its energy from renewable sources by the year 2020, said on Thursday, Abdelkebir zahoud, Water and Environment Secretary of State.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/morocco_to_produce_4/view
8 December 2009
EU, Morocco plan first bilateral summit
Morocco and the European Union will hold their first bilateral summit in 2010, ANSA reported on Monday (December 7th). The announcement was made by the EU-Morocco Association Council, currently meeting in Brussels.
English
7 December 2009
Tourists Flock to Modernized Morocco
Ancient Morocco Adds Modern Amenities in Bid to Boost Tourism.
English
7 December 2009
Morocco to host 3rd Maghreb trade fair in 2010
Morocco will in 2010 host the third edition of the Maghreb industry, production and agriculture trade fair that will be devoted to tradi t ional craftsmanship, the Maghreb Union of Trade Fairs announced in Tripoli on Su n day.
English
http://www.africanmanager.com/site_eng/detail_article.php?art_id=14256
7 December 2009
Morocco continues aggressive marketing efforts
New roads, new air services with Royal Air Morocco Air Arabia and Morocco, the opening of brand new hotels and tour operators, as well as the opening the first two next generation resorts of the Azur Plan (Mediterrania Saidia in June 2009 and Mazagan Beach Resort late October 2009), all making 2009-2010 Morocco a more attractive and accessible destination.
English
http://www.eturbonews.com/13131/morocco-continues-aggressive-marketing-efforts
4 December 2009
Fostering partnerships in energy is a win-win strategy, official says
Moroccan Energy Minister, Amina Benkhadra, said, Thursday in Rabat, that bolstering efficient public-private cooperation partnerships among the Community of Sahel-Saharan States (CEN-SAD) and other regional grouping is a win-win strategy.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/regional/fostering_partnershi/view
4 December 2009
Moroccans Create Jobs with Date Jelly
The woman-owned Al Ouaha cooperative produces date jelly in Morocco’s Errachidia province but the arid region faces challenges such as plant diseases, lack of water, and poverty. With USAID assistance, the cooperative has expanded sales and employees, and has added new products such as medicinal plants and olive oil.
English
http://www.usaid.gov/press/frontlines/fl_nov09/p16_jelly091130.html
4 December 2009
New Shipping Port In Morocco
Morocco is nearing completion of a major new port facility south of Casablanca. The El Jaddah Port was one of the stops for the U.S. Grains Council Corn Mission.
English
http://agwired.com/2009/12/04/new-shipping-port-in-morocco/
3 December 2009
Morocco tourism grows 6%
Morocco received some 7 million foreign tourists in the first ten months of the year to mark a 6% increase over 2008.
English
3 December 2009
AfDB lends Morocco 110 mln euros for power upgrades
The African Development Bank (AfDB) approved a loan worth 110 million euros ($166.2 million) to help Morocco expand its electricity network, the bank said on Thursday.
English
http://www.reuters.com/article/bondsNews/idUSGEE5B22N620091203
2 December 2009
Morocco, ITC sign cooperation agreement in export promotion
Morocco and the International Trade Center (ITC) signed, on Tuesday in Geneva, a cooperation agreement to implement the "Enhancing Arab Capacity for Trade" (EnACT) Programme in Morocco.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/morocco_itc_sign_co/view
2 December 2009
Low cost airlines boost competition in Morocco
International and low-cost flights are experiencing strong growth in Morocco. Low cost airlines, such as Jet 4 you, Atlas Blue, Ryanair and Easyjet, have come onto the Moroccan market with large-scale passenger capacity and frequent flights.
English
http://www.africanews.com/site/Low_cost_airlines_boost_competition_in_Morocco/list_messages/28317
2 December 2009
Twenty four CEN-SAD countries discuss energy strategy in Morocco
The 4th meeting of the ministers of energy and mines of the member countries of the Community of Sahel-Saharan States (CEN-SAD) opened Wednesday in Morocco with the participation of 24 countries who will try to establish their common energy strategy.
English
http://www.apanews.net/apa.php?page=show_article_eng&id_article=112697
1 December 2009
Morocco to participate in 7th WTO Ministerial Conference Nov.30-Dec.2
Chaired by Foreign Trade Minister, Abdellatif Maazouz, the Moroccan delegation is made up of representatives of the Foreign Affairs, the Finance, and Foreign Trade Ministries as well as the National Council for Foreign Trade (CNCE), said a statement of the foreign Trade Ministry.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/world/morocco_to_participa_1/view
30 November 2009
Morocco committed to increase public investments, EIU
Morocco is committed to increasing public investments in order to boost economic activity, British think tank, the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) said in its November report.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/morocco_committed_to/view
30 November 2009
MOROCCO, CITRUS EXPORTS EXPECTED TO GROW
Despite a slow season start and small-sized products, Moroccan citrus exports are expected to increase in 2009/2010.
English
http://www.greenmed.eu/news-313.html
30 November 2009
Morocco's Delta eyes opportunities abroad
Moroccan industrial group Delta Holding was open to the idea of floating more of its shares as it eyes investment opportunities abroad, its managing director said.
English
http://af.reuters.com/article/investingNews/idAFJOE5AP0RU20091126
30 November 2009
Morocco signs OECD's declaration on international investment
Morocco has signed the declaration of the Organization for Economic cooperation and development (OECD) on International Investment and Multinational companies.
English
http://www.menafn.com/qn_news_story_s.asp?StoryId=1093285057
30 November 2009
Moroccan wine industry 'set to expand'
Morocco's small but historic wine-making industry could be set for a major expansion, something that may see it becoming a centre for wine tourism.
English
http://www.propertyshowrooms.com/morocco/property/news/moroccan-wine-industry-set-expand_243117.html
23 November 2009
Facing world economic crisis requires balance between economic, social development - PM
Facing the world economic crisis requires balance between economic and social development, said on Monday, Morocco's Prime Minister, Abbas El Fassi.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/home/facing_world_economi/view
23 November 2009
Tangier forum calls for Mediterranean co-operation
The 2nd MEDays Forum ended Saturday (November 21st) in Tangier with a call to boost multilateralism and regional development.
English
23 November 2009
World Bank to contribute to Morocco's solar energy project
The World Bank (WB) is considering the participation in financing Morocco's USD 9-billion solar energy project.
English
http://www.menafn.com/qn_news_story_s.asp?StoryId=1093284227
23 November 2009
Morocco sees growth in exports and jobs next year
Moroccan exports and industrial jobs will start growing again next year as business-friendly reforms help the north African country rebound quicker from the economic downturn, said its industry and trade minister.
English
23 November 2009
Morocco wine-makers sniff success
Scarcely taller than the vine from which she is picking grapes, Fatima, a Moroccan woman in her 50s, squints as she peers into the sun shining on the open plateau near Meknes . . .
English
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/8352885.stm
20 November 2009
Morocco's economic outlook improving in 2010 - IMF
Morocco's economic outlook is expected to improve in 2010, although the pace of recovery is somewhat dependent upon the strength of economy of the euro zone, its top trading partner, the IMF said on Friday.
English
http://www.iii.co.uk/news/?type=afxnews&articleid=7638526&subject=economic&action=article
19 November 2009
Morocco to build nuclear plant in 2020
Moroccan will launch construction of a 100MW nuclear energy plant in 2020, Energy Minister Amina Benkhadra told parliament on Wednesday (November 18th).
English
19 November 2009
Microsoft's North Africa Opportunity and Challenge
With shrinking computer sales, the engine of Microsoft (MS) revenue with operating system sales, every penny counts no matter where it comes from. Software giant Microsoft is expanded its focus on the North Africa region seeking to up its revenue from that emerging market.
English
http://www.north-africa.com/naj_news/news_na/2noveighteen09.html
19 November 2009
EIB supports Morocco
The European Investment Bank (EIB) has granted the Moroccan company Autoroutes du Maroc, a loan of 2.6 billion Moroccan dirhams (240m Euros), the highest ever granted to Morocco, for major improvements to the motorway system in the country.
English
http://www.africanews.com/site/EIB_supports_Morocco/list_messages/28100
18 November 2009
IMG: Morocco's economic performance remains solid
Despite the global economic downturn, Morocco's economic performance has remained 'solid', said on Friday the International Monetary Fund's mission, led by Mark Lewis.
English
http://www.menafn.com/qn_news_story_s.asp?StoryId=1093283481
17 November 2009
Morocco urges 'massive investment' in agriculture to solve food challenges
Morocco called Tuesday on the international community to invest massively in agriculture and make this kind of investment central in agricultural development. Moroccan Prime Minister Abbas El Fassi, who represents HM king Mohammed VI in the Summit of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), held in the Italian capital, said agriculture should be front and centre in national economic policies.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/home/morocco_urges__massi/view
16 November 2009
Exotic Larache, Morocco
Looking for a truly exotic vacation? Larache, Morocco provides an authentic cultural experience in a seaside town, where locals and visitors alike enjoy their leisure time. To Westerners Morocco represents intrigue, mystery and the exotic. With a warm Mediterranean climate and located on the Atlantic Ocean this is a perfect destination.
English
16 November 2009
IMF: Morocco's growth remains solid despite global recession
Economic growth in the North African state of Morocco remains solid even in the face the global economic downturn, the international Monetary Fund (IMF) has disclosed.
English
13 November 2009
Morocco 'getting down to work' on unemployment benefits
The Moroccan government says a draft law is in the works to extend insurance payments to the unemployed.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2009/11/13/feature-02
13 November 2009
Morocco to create agency safeguard oases
Morocco has decided to set up an agency for the development and safeguard of the country's oases and Argan trees, as recognition of their importance.
English
http://www.menafn.com/qn_news_story_s.asp?storyid=1093282521
12 November 2009
E-trade in Morocco to turnover 100m dirhams late 2009
The turnover of e-trade in Morocco is forecast to achieve a turnover of 100 million Moroccan dirhams ($13 million) in 2009, as against 31 million dirhams a year earlier, Moroccan Industry and Trade minister has said.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/e-trade_in_morocco_t/view
12 November 2009
Water-saving scheme 'a success' in Morocco
A project to reduce water use at hotels and guest houses in Morocco has reportedly been a success. The Moroccan National Tourist Office (MNTO) revealed that an initiative it is pursuing with the Travel Foundation has helped accommodation providers in Marrakech and Essaouira reduce their water consumption by up to 25% this year.
English
http://news.opodo.co.uk/NewsDetails/2009-11-11/Water-saving_scheme__a_success__in_Morocco
11 November 2009
Casablanca to get tramway by 2010
The first line, which will be complete by Fall 2010, will serve mainly universities, Casa-Voyageurs and Oasis train stations, downtown Casablanca, and Sidi Moumen Stadium.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/see_also/casablanca_to_get_tr/view
11 November 2009
Marriott to open first hotels in Algeria, Morocco
Marriott International will open its first hotels in Algeria, Morocco and sub-Saharan Africa by 2012 and sees further opportunities to grow in Asia as the global economic downturn recedes.
English
http://www.reuters.com/article/rbssConsumerGoodsAndRetailNews/idUSLB43660620091111
11 November 2009
USTDA assists Morocco achieve its goals for aviation infrastructure development
USTDA awarded a grant that demonstrates the Administration's strong commitment to supporting Morocco's long-term economic growth. The grant will support Royal Air Maroc's plans to modernize its airline operations.
English
11 November 2009
HM the King says stronger Islamic solidarity hinges on economic partnership among OIC countries
HM King Mohammed VI said that the consolidation of Islamic solidarity hinges on instituting vibrant economic partnership based on the reinvigoration of intra-Islamic trade and the creation of favorable conditions for the establishment of a free trade area among Islamic countries.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/home/hm_the_king_says_str/view
9 November 2009
International meeting for Gulf investments in Morocco November 19th
Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Moroccan businessmen are to meet for a 2-day event in Rabat: GULFINVEST II, November 19 and 20. An initiative by the Arab Industrial Development and Mining Organization (AIDMO) and Arab Gulf Agency for Media and Communication (AAMC), the international event is to discuss investment opportunities in Morocco.
English
http://www.eyeofdubai.com/v1/news/newsdetail-36257.htm
9 November 2009
20th Africa and Middle East Regional Meeting - Ouarzazate, Morocco
Air traffic control professionals from Africa and the Middle East assembled in Ouarzazate, in the Kingdom of Morocco for the IFTACA Seminar and 20th Africa and Middle East Regional Meeting from 03 05 November 2009. The meeting, which focused on Performance, was officially opened by His Excellency Abdessalam BEKRAT, the Governor of Ouarzazate and was chaired by IFATCA President and CEO, Mr. Marc BAUMGARTNER.
English
9 November 2009
Morocco FDI seen $4 bln 2010: finance minister
Foreign direct investment into Morocco is seen returning towards 2008 levels at around $4 billion in 2010, and the North African country plans to issue a Eurobond next year, the country's finance minister said on Monday.
English
http://af.reuters.com/article/investingNews/idAFJOE5A80K420091109
6 November 2009
Solar energy: Morocco's bright – and green – idea
Tapping sunlight for power may allow Morocco to spark economic development, cut its reliance on foreign energy sources, and safeguard the environment.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2009/11/06/feature-01
5 November 2009
Morocco attaches great importance to relations with U.S. within FTA -Minister
Morocco's Foreign Trade Minister, Abdellatif Maazou, has said Morocco attaches great importance to its relations with the U.S. within the bilateral Free Trade Agreement.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/morocco_attaches_gre/view
4 November 2009
Union of Arab Women Investors boosts entrepreneurs
Female investors flocked to Morocco to attend the Union of Arab Women Investors' annual conference, a three-day event that wrapped up on Friday (October 30th).
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2009/11/04/feature-03
4 November 2009
Moroccan third-quarter growth 6.1 pct: HCP estimate
Morocco's economy grew by an estimated 6.1 percent in the third quarter, accelerating from 5.4 percent in the second when foreign demand for its goods and services stabilized, the government said on Wednesday.
English
http://af.reuters.com/article/investingNews/idAFJOE5A30AY20091104
4 November 2009
North Africa Is Heading For A General Increase In Competition In The Telecommunications Markets
In Morocco, the third mobile license has of course been awarded to Wana, a locally owned fixed-mobile operator, which Zain is now a minority shareholder in, and we anticipate the launch date of Wana’s fully mobile service.
English
http://www.officialwire.com/main.php?action=posted_news&rid=43283&catid=317
4 November 2009
Morocco capitalizes on sunshine to generate 2 gigawatts of power
Moroccan officials presented on Monday what would be among the world’s largest solar energy projects – a staggering 2,000 megawatts of solar generation capacity estimated to cost around 70 billion Moroccan dirhams or $9 billion.
English
3 November 2009
Morocco unveils $9 bln solar power scheme
Morocco announced on Monday a solar energy project worth $9 billion which officials said will account for 38 percent of the North African country's installed power generation by 2020.
English
http://af.reuters.com/article/investingNews/idAFJOE5A202D20091103
2 November 2009
USAID Scholarships Help Students Become Leaders
Youness Tihm, a student from Morocco, is enrolled in a master’s program in sustainable international development at Brandeis University. As part of his degree program, students are required to complete a professional internship, and Tihm landed a one-year practicum at the United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDEF) in New York City.
English
http://www.usaid.gov/press/frontlines/fl_oct09/p13_scholarships091027.html
2 November 2009
Morocco hosts 2nd World Policy Conference
The second World Policy Conference (WPC) started in the Moroccan city of Marrakech Friday with the participation of representatives of 30 countries from the world.
English
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2009-10/31/content_12363539.htm
2 November 2009
Moroccan reforms ideal for investment
Located half a world away, Morocco stands at the crossroads of three continents. Therein lies its attraction and strength for investments explained Secretary General of the Moroccan Foreign Ministry Youssef Amrani.
English
http://www.koreaherald.co.kr/NEWKHSITE/data/html_dir/2009/11/02/200911020022.asp
2 November 2009
Morocco sees record tourist arrivals this year
Morocco is expecting tourist arrivals to grow 5 percent this year to a record 8.4 million but revenues will fall a less-than-expected 6 percent, Tourism Minister Mohamed Boussaid said.
English
http://af.reuters.com/article/investingNews/idAFJOE5A009H20091101
29 October 2009
25,000 tons of U.S. sorghum destined for Morocco
Morocco’s livestock and poultry sector will soon have high protein U.S. sorghum available for inclusion in feed rations. On Mon., Oct. 26, 2009, Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) loaded 25,000 tons of U.S. sorghum on a vessel in Galveston, Texas, destined for the North African country. U.S. Grains Council Director in the Mediterranean Kurt Shultz said the sale was a result of developing long-term relationships and sharing information with top feed manufacturers in Morocco.
English
http://southwestfarmpress.com/grains/sorghum-exports-1029/
28 October 2009
Morocco's OCP to near double phosphate capacity
Morocco's Office Cherifien de Phosphate (OCP), the world's leading phosphate exporter, plans to nearly double production in the next six years, a senior executive told Reuters on Wednesday.
English
http://af.reuters.com/article/investingNews/idAFJOE59R0M820091028
28 October 2009
Morocco Hosts First International Conference for Arab Women Investors
The first International Conference for Arab Women Investors kicked off on Wednesday in Skhirat, about 20 km south of Rabat, to seek means to promote investment opportunities for women within the Arab world.
English
http://english.cri.cn/6826/2009/10/28/1901s525593.htm
28 October 2009
New Moroccan-manufactured car marketed in Egypt as of 2010
Morocco's Minister of Foreign Trade, Abdellatif Maazouz, announced, Tuesday in Cairo, that the new Moroccan-Manufactured car "Dacia Sandero" will be exported to Egypt as of 2010.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/new_moroccan-manufac/view
26 October 2009
Government Ensures Morocco Remains On Track To Be A Strong Property Market
Morocco’s booming tourism is an anomaly in the world’s recession crisis. The highly cultured, warm climate country in Northern Africa has lived up to its promising economic forecasts, especially in the construction sector, with the International Monetary Fund predicting a 4.4 percent growth this year.
English
26 October 2009
2010 Budget to create around 24,000 new jobs
The 2010 budget provides for creating 23,800 new jobs to meet the needs in social and justice sectors, Finance Minister, Salaheddine Mezouar, said on Wednesday.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/2010_budget_to_creat/view
23 October 2009
Morocco has a big presence at World Fruit and Vegetable Show 2009
Morocco had a big presence this year as a visitor to the World Fruit & Vegetable Show 2009. They had the biggest stand and the Princes of Morocco came to open the fair.
English
http://www.freshplaza.com/news_detail.asp?id=52756
23 October 2009
Morocco announces "emergency budget" as priority for social investment
The Moroccan government submitted its 2010 draft Finance Act in the wake of the global crisis in line with a priority focus on social issues, the “weak link” and to investment as a catalyst of employment and growth, of which the rate should be around 3.5% as opposed to 5.3% in 2009, sources aid on Thursday in Rabat.
English
http://www.apanews.net/apa.php?page=show_article_eng&id_article=109622
23 October 2009
Morocco to deliver boost to desalination sector
Morocco’s long-term desalination strategy is taking shape, with a nationwide study on course to be completed by the end of 2009.
English
http://www.globalwaterintel.com/news/2009/43/morocco-course-deliver-boost-desalination-sector.html
23 October 2009
Virtual Internet tour of Marrakech
“Visit Marrakech from the comfort of your seat!” This is the message that the Moroccan National Tourist Office, the Regional Tourism Council and the local trade professionals are sending out to reach a varied and diverse audience in order to encourage them to rediscover Marrakech, the leading tourist destination via a new advertising campaign.
English
http://www.traveldailynews.com/pages/show_page/33719-Virtual-Internet-tour-of-Marrakech
23 October 2009
Opening of Riad Al Ksar & Spa guesthouse in Marrakesh medina Morocco
Riad Al Ksar & Spa in Marrakesh is the newly opened secret place of the medina. Exotic chic riad guesthouse, featuring traditional architecture along with trendy design gives this boutique hotel a remarquable style. Restaurant, panoramic terrace with lounge bar and spa are available at Al Ksar riad Marrakech
English
http://www.pr-inside.com/opening-of-riad-al-ksar-r1542789.htm
23 October 2009
Morocco among top five countries accounting for 90% of Africa's broadband subscriptions, UN report
Morocco figures among the five African countries which account for 90 percent of Africa's broadband subscriptions, said the United Nation for Trade and Development (UNCTAD).
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/social/morocco_among_top_fi/view
22 October 2009
Morocco holding talks over Tarfaya wind farm bids
MEED reported that Morocco’s Office National de Electricite has invited the two bidders for its Tarfaya wind farm project to hold a final round of technical clarifications in the third week of October.
English
22 October 2009
Morocco gets BEI loan to finance motorway projects
The European Investment Bank (BEI) granted Morocco a loan of 2.6 billion Moroccan dirhams ($342 million) to finance the expansion of the Casablanca-Rabat motorway and the construction of the 41-km motorway that bypasses Rabat.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/home/morocco_gets_bei_loa/view
21 October 2009
Finance Minister presents 2010 Draft Budget before Lower House
The Budget, which comes amid the international economic and financial downturn, aims at consolidating growth and development and enhancing social cohesion and solidarity.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/finance_minister_pre/view
20 October 2009
Rabat gets new headquarters for its tourism police squad
In a bid to promote tourism activities in the capital, authorities inaugurated, on Tuesday in the heart of the old medina, a new headquarters of a tourism squad.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/home/rabat_gets_new_headq/view
19 October 2009
Teeing off in Marrakech
Samanah Country Club has announced that its new Golf Club House will finally be opened next month at the foot of the Atlas Mountains just 15 minutes from the heart of Marrakech.
English
http://www.themovechannel.com/news/eb1f2a1d-2bd7/
19 October 2009
Pollutec Morocco
Pollutec Maroc 2009, the 1st International exhibition of environmental equipment, technologies and services, will be the only event dedicated to environmental issues and challenges in morocco.
English
http://www.enviweb.cz/akce/archiv/42020/pollutec-morocco
19 October 2009
NORTH AFRICA: Digital education plan approved
The five countries of the Arab Maghreb Union - Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco, Libya and Mauritania - and five European countries, France, Spain, Italy, Malta and Portugal, have agreed to cooperate to promote digital education in universities, research institutes and schools to try and bridge the 'digital gap' between Europeans and Maghreb residents.
English
http://www.universityworldnews.com/article.php?story=20091015174431205
19 October 2009
OBG lauds Morocco's efforts to insure long-term economic health
The London-based Oxford Business Group (OBG), lauded Monday Morocco's efforts geared towards insuring the Kingdom's long-term economic health.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/home/obg_lauds_morocco_s/view
16 October 2009
Morocco calls for help to overcome ecosystem fragility in Africa
King Mohammed VI of Morocco on Friday called on the international community to assist Africa to particularly overcome the fragility of its ecosystems.
English
http://www.apanews.net/apa.php?page=show_article_eng&id_article=109083
16 October 2009
Transfer of knowledge to countries of origin needs better work conditions for migrants
Participants in an international conference on the impact of the economic crunch on migration have recommended reducing brain drain and providing better work conditions for competencies to motivate them to transfer know-how to their countries of origin.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/social/transfer_of_knowledg/view
15 October 2009
Tourist arrivals in Morocco up 5% up to September
Tourist arrivals in Morocco have jumped, in the year to September, more than 5%, Morocco's Tourism Minister announced on Wednesday.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/home/tourist_arrivals_in8680/view
15 October 2009
Morocco targets wider ICT use
"Maroc Numeric 2013" aims to expand Internet access and hi-tech tool usage. It will also create 26,000 new jobs.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2009/10/15/feature-02
15 October 2009
Morocco's 2009-2010 citrus output to increase by 10%
Morocco's 2009-2010 citrus output will reach about 1.4 million tons, that is a 10% increase compared to the previous agricultural season, the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries said on Tuesday.
English
http://www.freshplaza.com/news_detail.asp?id=52266
14 October 2009
Morocco's C. Bank head outlines measures to help migrants face global crisis
Morocco has taken several measures to help Moroccan migrants face up the global economic crisis effects, said Monday Abdellatif Jouahri, head of Morocco's central Bank (Bank Al-Maghrib).
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/morocco_s_c._bank_he/view
14 October 2009
Morocco unveils national computerization programme
The Moroccan government and banking institutions signed agreements on Saturday (October 10th) to implement a national IT initiative worth 5.2 billion dirhams.
English
14 October 2009
Moroccan King calls for creating Economic and Social Council
HM King Mohammed VI has called on the government to take the necessary measures for the creation of the Economic and Social Council (ESC).
French
http://www.menafn.com/qn_news_story_s.asp?StoryId=1093276527
14 October 2009
Casablanca 'a hot market'
The property market in the Moroccan city of Casablanca is a strong one that offers good investment prospects, an expert has said.
English
http://www.propertyshowrooms.com/morocco/property/news/casablanca-hot-market_237314.html
13 October 2009
Morocco rises investment to spur growth in 2010
Morocco plans to expand investment spending 20.4 percent next year to prop up the economy to grow 3.5 percent and offset the impact of the global downturn, the finance minister said on Tuesday.
English
http://www.iii.co.uk/news/?type=afxnews&articleid=7571816&action=article
13 October 2009
Jacobs Engineering to form JV with Morocco's OCP
Construction services company Jacobs Engineering Group Inc (JEC.N) said it intends to form an engineering joint venture with Office Cherifien Des Phosphates (OCP), a Morocco-based producer of phosphate rock and phosphate derivatives, to provide services in Morocco.
English
http://www.reuters.com/article/BLDFIX/idUSBNG27997620091013
13 October 2009
Hawker Beechcraft to provide aircraft to Morocco
Hawker Beechcraft Corp. announced Monday a contract to provide 24 of its new Beechcraft T-6C trainer aircraft and support to the Royal Moroccan Air Force.
English
http://wichita.bizjournals.com/wichita/stories/2009/10/12/daily10.html
2 October 2009
Moroccan Attijariwafa Bank's H1 net rises 13.1%
Morocco's private banking group Attijariwafa Bank said its first-half net for year 2009 increased 13.1 percent.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/moroccan_attijariwaf/view
2 October 2009
A new development plan in Morocco
The government of Morocco has finalized a development plan for fishing sector, called Halieutis. The aim of the project is the raise the number of working places in the sector almost twice to 115,000 and to raise the export of sea products to 3 billion dollars per year by 2020.
English
http://arabinform.org/news/a_new_development_plan_in_morocco/2009-10-02-222
1 October 2009
Morocco prepares "green" charter for 2010
Morocco plans to unveil an environmental charter next year to govern water and solid waste management in all public and private sectors, while preserving natural resources and spaces.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2009/10/01/feature-02
1 October 2009
Morocco fishing project to create 20,000 jobs
The 586 million-euro "Haliopolis" venture aims to create some 20,000 jobs. Morocco plans to increase the value of sea product exports to 2 billion euros by 2020.
English
1 October 2009
C. bank head calls for speeding structural reforms to weather slowdown impact
Governor of Morocco's central bank (Bank Al Maghrib), Abellatif Jouahri, urged on Thursday for speeding structural reforms to cushion the crisis impact on the national economy.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/c._bank_head_calls_f/view
30 September 2009
Morocco's stock exchange to introduce new value index
The Casablanca stock exchange has decided to introduce 10 to 15 new liquid securities index starting Jan. 1, 2010, director of the financial institution, Karim Hajji, announced on Wednesday.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/morocco_s_stock_exch/view
29 September 2009
AMIDEAST to open entrepreneur training centre in Morocco
AMIDEAST and Cisco Entrepreneur Institute will open a training centre for young entrepreneurs next month in Rabat, organisers announced on Monday (September 28th).
English
29 September 2009
Morocco's 2009-2012 growth rate at 5.1%
Morocco's GDP will grow by 5.1% between 2009 and 2012, said the department of financial studies and forecasts. In its 2008 annual report, the DEPF noted that economic growth is projected to reach 5.7% in 2009, thanks to the good agricultural performance, lower oil prices and the exchange rate of the dollar.
English
http://www.menafn.com/qn_news_story_s.asp?StoryId=1093273584
29 September 2009
Morocco to develop environment comprehensive Charter before end-2009, Foreign Minister
As part of its commitment to support the international multilateral process for the establishment of an International Regime on Climate Change, Morocco calls for setting up an international fund for Clean Technology that would finance energy projects, generating a low carbon emission in developing countries, the minister added.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/morocco_to_develop_e/view
28 September 2009
Moroccan bank Attijari H1 net profit rises 13 pct
Morocco's Attijariwafabank said on Friday its net profit grew 13.1 percent in the first six months of this year after the bank expanded its business at home and abroad despite the global downturn.
English
28 September 2009
Morocco's legendary Mamounia hotel reopens in Marrakech after makeover
Winston Churchill invited Franklin Roosevelt here to relax following strategic talks during the Second World War and Alfred Hitchcock shot some of "The Man Who Knew Too Much " in the hotel's lobby - which has also been a haunt of the Rolling Stones, Charlie Chaplin, Sharon Stone and many other Hollywood stars for nearly a century. Now, after a three-year, US$176 million makeover, the Mamounia is opening again for business in the oasis gardens of Marrakech in southern Morocco...
English
23 September 2009
Moroccan farmers receive much-needed government assistance
Morocco has announced plans to bolster its critical agricultural sector with a variety of government measures, which include public/private partnerships, subsidies and disaster relief.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2009/09/23/feature-02
22 September 2009
Fair, balanced intellectual property contributes to economic development, Govt. spokesman
Fair and balanced intellectual property contributes to the economic and social development, Minister of Communication, Spokesman of the government, Khalid Naciri, said on Tuesday.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/fair_balanced_intel/view
21 September 2009
Jumeirah signs Golf and Polo Resort in Marrakech
The Dubai-based Jumeirah Group has signed an agreement with SGTM Immobilier, a subsidiary of Société Générale des Travaux du Maroc (SGTM), to manage the Jumeirah Marrakech Golf & Polo Resort, a new luxury golf and polo resort located seven kilometres to the south of Marrakech, in the lee of the Atlas Mountains.
English
http://www.asiatraveltips.com/news09/219-MarrakechResort.shtml
21 September 2009
Telecoms, fast-growing sector in Morocco, OBG
British respected think tank, Oxford Business Group, underlined in its latest report released on Friday the landscape changes in Morocco, especially in the telecoms sector.
English
http://callcenterinfo.tmcnet.com/news/2009/09/20/4379508.htm
21 September 2009
Morocco's reaction to slowdown "impressive", IIF Director says
Director of the Institute for International Finance (IIF), Charles H. Dallara, described as "impressive" the Moroccan reaction to face the global downturn which did not spare the Maghreb region.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/morocco_s_reaction_t/view
21 September 2009
Thrifty Car Rental opens new outlets in Morocco
Thrifty Car Rental, a subsidiary of Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group, has opened four new counters in the airports of Agadir, Marrakech, Rabat and Tangier following an agreement with the Moroccan Airports Authority.
English
http://www.tradingmarkets.com/.site/news/Stock%20News/2532204/
16 September 2009
Morocco investment projects to create thousands of jobs
Ten new Moroccan investment projects will create 4,752 jobs in the industrial heating, food processing, commercial real estate and tourism sectors.
English
15 September 2009
Fitch affirms Morocco's economy advanced rating
The world rating agency, Fitch, has affirmed Morocco's BBB- and BBB ratings for long-term foreign and local currency Issuer Default Ratings (IDR), respectively, while the Country ceiling was affirmed at BBB.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/home/fitch_affirms_morocc/view
14 September 2009
Economic reforms have boosted Morocco's growth potential, Study
The economic reforms launched by Morocco have boosted the country's growth potential, reveals a recent study by the Washington-based "Peterson Institute for International Economics."
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/world/economic_reforms_hav/view
11 September 2009
Jeppesen and Royal Air Maroc Agree to Five-Year Electronic Charting Service Agreement
Jeppesen recently signed a five-year electronic charting service contract with Royal Air Maroc, which will help the airline make the transition from using standard paper navigation charts to adopting tailored, digital information in the cockpit.
English
10 September 2009
Morocco- First national trademark competition in December
The first national trademark competition called "Morocco Awards" will take place in December in the northern city of Tangier. The competition will be organised by the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Modern Technologies, and the Moroccan Office of Industrial and Commercial Property.
English
http://www.menafn.com/qn_news_story_s.asp?StoryId=1093270468
10 September 2009
World Bank lauds Morocco for progress in investment sector
The International Finance Corporation's "Doing Business 2010" report commends Morocco for access to credit information and administrative procedures for start-up businesses.
English
9 September 2009
Morocco intervenes to end RAM strike, revive labour talks
Royal Air Maroc (RAM) and its pilots resumed talks on Monday (September 7th), after the unprecedented intervention of Minister of Equipment and Transport Karim Ghellab helped resolve the sixth in a string of pilots' strikes.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2009/09/08/feature-01
9 September 2009
Israeli tour company opens office in Morocco
Travel company Yambateva, which specializes in organized tours to exotic locations, has announced a merger with Maroc Tours and will open local offices in Marrakesh. The office, which is staffed by local personnel but managed by Maroc Tours owner David Edri from Israel, offers Israeli tourists the convenience of dealing with on-the-spot service and a quick response to any issues that may arise during their visit.
English
http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?cid=1251804531074&pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull
8 September 2009
Morocco's phosphate company sees $ 1.5 billion in revenues in Jan-Aug 2009
Morocco's state-owned phosphate producer Office Cherifien Des Phosphates (OCP) achieved a turnover of 11.6 billion dirhams ($ 1.5 billion) in Jan-Aug 2009, that is 75% of the year's projected turnover, OCP reported Tuesday.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/home/morocco_s_phosphate/view
3 September 2009
Morocco 'the magical spot of Northern Africa', US paper
Enchanting with its energetic and ancient cities, rugged deserts and mountains, spices and music and creativity, "Morocco is the magical spot of Northern Africa", the American newspaper, the Baltimore examiner, said.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/home/morocco__the_magical/view
2 September 2009
Etisalat still sees Morocco as a vital growth market
Emirates Telecommunications Corp (etisalat), which lost a bid to take a stake in Morocco’s Meditel telecom’s firm, is still interested in the country’s sector, a spokesman said yesterday.
English
http://www.business24-7.ae/Articles/2009/9/Pages/EtisalatstillseesMoroccoasavitalgrowthmarket.aspx
2 September 2009
Korea and Morocco join together on IT services
The Korean government co-hosted an annual event in Morocco, northern Africa, to link Korean IT firms and African countries in the export of Korea’s e-Government system.
English
http://joongangdaily.joins.com/article/view.asp?aid=2909576
1 September 2009
Sahara dispute undermines regional economic integration, Chinese official
The dispute over the Sahara issue undermines the regional economic integration and its persistence threatens security and stability in sub-Saharan Africa, Zhang Ming, Director General of African Department at the Chinese Foreign Ministry, said on Friday in Rabat
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/politics/sahara_dispute_under2132/view
1 September 2009
Maya Announces New Gold Discoveries at its Amizmiz Project in Morocco
MAYA GOLD & SILVER (TSX VENTURE:MYA) is pleased to announce the discovery of two additional zones of mineralization (TRNC and TRND) on its Amizmiz project in Morocco.
English
31 August 2009
Marrakech regains its former cachet
Next month La Mamounia is reopening again after three years of extensive refurbishment, an extra dollop of glamour to match the recent ascent of Marrakech as a cultural and tourist hotspot.
English
http://www.thenational.ae/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090831/FOREIGN/708309819/1011
31 August 2009
New 'Automotive City' to create 15,000 Moroccan jobs
A new Moroccan "free trade zone" for the automotive industry is expected to create up to 15,000 jobs by 2015.
English
31 August 2009
New irrigation techniques yield gains in Morocco
Modified irrigation practices have decreased water usage for crops by 40% in the Beni Mellal region of Morocco, while increasing wheat crop yields by 50% to 80% since 2004.
English
http://www.bizcommunity.com/Article/145/87/39410.html
28 August 2009
Tensions between RAM and pilots' association subside as talks resume
After several strikes and continued sparring between Royal Air Maroc (RAM) pilots and management, both sides returned to the negotiating table eager to resolve the dispute.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2009/08/26/feature-01
28 August 2009
Etisalat has Ample Funds for Meditel Acquisition
Bankers are working on financing to back bids for a potential 64.4 per cent stake in Morocco’s second-largest telecoms company Meditel, bankers close to the deal said on Friday.
English
http://www.khaleejtimes.com/biz/inside.asp?xfile16 March 2010=/data/business/2009/August/business_August608.xml§ion=business
27 August 2009
Moroccan fixed, mobile internet users up 15 percent in Q2
Morocco added 128,222 internet subscribers in the second quarter, for 15 percent quarterly growth to 834,463 at the end of June and 47.29 percent growth versus June 2008, according to telecommunications regulator ANRT.
English
http://www.telecompaper.com/news/article.aspx?cid=688028
26 August 2009
Tangier Med: An ambitious construction program in Morocco
Tangier Med is a new passenger and cargo port located on the Straits of Gibraltar about 40 km east of Tangier in Morocco and 15 km from Spain at the shortest distance between Africa and Europe. The ambitious construction program was officially inaugurated in July 2007 by King Mohammed VI and the government body Tangier Mediterranean Special Agency (TMSA) is overseeing the whole project.
English
26 August 2009
Report ranks Morocco among top telecom markets
Morocco's telecommunications sector is among the most advanced in Africa, Le Matin reported on Tuesday. A new survey by Fox Business highlighted the performance of Maroc Telecom's profitability and cited the "renaissance" of Morocco's fixed telephony market.
English
13 August 2009
Morocco hosts Afro-Atlantic meeting to explore opportunities, face challenges
Morocco is organizing a conference of Foreign ministers from African nations lapped by the Atlantic Ocean with the aim of exploring opportunities and facing common challenges. The north African country's government hopes this first-ever meeting, which gathers 15 countries, would help reinforce dialogue and elaborate common strategies vis-à-vis complex economic, environmental and security challenges.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/world/morocco_hosts_afro-a/view
12 August 2009
Morocco has the best beaches
For those wanting to move to sunnier climbs, Morocco has some of the best beaches around, according to reports. Essaouira is a small fishing village, and according to the Telegraph "one of the friendliest and most laid-back beach resorts anywhere".
English
http://www.expatriatehealthcare.com/news/Morocco-has-the-best-beaches-630
11 August 2009
Morocco, forging ahead with ambitious Tanger Med II, OBG
The London-based think tank ,Oxford Business Group (OBG), highlighted on Tuesday the importance of the ambitious Tanger Med II Port expansion project which aspires to position the kingdom at the centre of Mediterranean and international trade.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/home/morocco_forging_ahe/view
10 August 2009
Morocco receives 3.5 mln tourists in 1st semester
As many as 3.5 million tourists have visited Morocco during the first semester of 2009, registering a 9-percent increase compared to last year's same period, the Moroccan Tourism Department announced.
English
http://mathaba.net/news/?x=621475
10 August 2009
Morocco - Diversified economy keeps the growth up
Morocco's GDP growth has risen by a third over 1998-2008, moving from 3.3% over 1990-1998 to 4.3% between 1998 and 2008, High Planning Commission has said. HCP said in its latest report on growth and human development that services and building and public works have enhanced Morocco's economic growth over the reporting period, with growth less and less dependent on agriculture.
English
10 August 2009
Morocco's eco growth at 5 pct for past 10 years
Morocco's economic growth over the past 10 years registered an increase of 4.8 percent, compared to 3.0 percent in the preceding decade.
English
6 August 2009
Vocational school graduates eager to join Moroccan labour market
In an effort to find a job in a difficult labour market, many young Moroccans have recently chosen vocational training after completing their baccalaureate degrees.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2009/08/06/feature-04
5 August 2009
Morocco's trade with Africa up 460% in 10 years, magazine
Morocco's trade with the African countries has jumped from $533 million in 1998 to around $3 billion in 2008, up 460%, the pan African weekly "Jeune Afrique" has said.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/morocco_s_trade_with/view
4 August 2009
Morocco's economy has become sounder, more diversified in a decade, IMF managing director
Achievements made by Morocco in the economic field over the past decade show the gradual progress of the country's economy that has become sounder and more diversified, Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund said on Tuesday.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/morocco_s_economy_ha/view
4 August 2009
Horizon to open oil terminal in Morocco
A new oil and bunker terminal in Tangiers, on the Moroccan side of the Gibraltar Strait, is scheduled to be operational in Q2 2010. The terminal has been in construction since 2008 by Horizon Tangiers Terminal (HTTSA) a subsidiary of the UAE-based Horizon group formed specifically to construct and develop the Tangiers oil terminal.
English
http://www.tankstoragemag.com/industry_news.php?item_id=1113
3 August 2009
Moroccans dream of a 'green country' on National Day
Moroccans in the capital share the dream of a "green Morocco" on Moroccan National Day.
English
http://www.gulfnews.com/nation/Society/10336929.html
31 July 2009
Morocco: Farmers Overcome Water Scarcity
Researchers in the central Moroccan region Beni Mellal are introducing new agricultural techniques that increase production while reducing water usage.
English
http://allafrica.com/stories/200907310791.html
30 July 2009
H.M. King: Moroccan economy relatively spared from global crisis thanks to reform programs
H.M. King Mohammed VI said Morocco has, to a certain extent, managed to alleviate the effects of a severe global financial crisis thanks to the efficiency of its reform programs, calling for an all-level vigilance facing the economic challenges.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/main2/h.m._king__moroccan/view
29 July 2009
Maroc Telecom achieves modest growth, good sub-Saharan performance
Moroccan incumbent Maroc Telecom has reported its consolidated group results for the first half of 2009. Revenues were up 1.9% year-on-year to MAD14.6 billion (USD1.84 billion) in the six months ended 30 June, whilst EBITDA rose 1.0% to MAD8.6 billion and net income attributable to the group climbed 2.6% to MAD 4.6 billion.
English
http://www.telegeography.com/cu/article.php?article_id=29477&email=html
29 July 2009
Morocco exhibit at World Fruit and Vegetable Show 2009
There is a to be big and very significant participation from Morocco at the World Fruit & Vegetable Show 2009. The country has shown a great deal of interest this year in the British fruit and vegetable market. Morocco is one of the most important suppliers of fresh produce in the Mediterranean.
English
http://www.freshplaza.com/news_detail.asp?id=48225
29 July 2009
'We're better off in Morocco'
Tong Wei is happy right where he is, comfortably established since 2003 in the Casablanca mercantile quarter of Derb Omar, part of a wave of Chinese traders and companies that have flooded Africa in recent years. . . .
English
http://www.thenational.ae/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090730/FOREIGN/707299844/-1/ART
28 July 2009
Morocco Q2 jobless rate drops to 8 pct on farm boom
Growth in farm incomes helped boost rural job creation in Morocco in the second quarter, offsetting a drop in industrial employment as the global economy slowed, the state High Planning Commission said on Tuesday.
English
http://af.reuters.com/article/investingNews/idAFJOE56R0SQ20090728
28 July 2009
Gulf businessmen look to Morocco for investment opportunities
GulfInvest 2009, a private initiative launched by businessmen from Morocco and Gulf countries, will be taking place at the Mohamed VI International Conference Palace in Skhirat, Morocco on 19-20 November 2009. This second meeting of Gulf investors in Morocco has been organized by Moroccan communication agency AGA Com.
English
http://www.zawya.com/story.cfm/sidZAWYA20090728081255
28 July 2009
First African Green University held in Morocco
Organized by the Moroccan Greens and the Maghreb Forum for Environment and Development, the three-day conference featured workshops on topics from climate change, good governance and democracy, to the effect of the global financial crisis on Africa.
English
http://www.independentpoliticalreport.com/2009/07/first-african-green-university-held-in-morocco/
23 July 2009
Morocco's information technology market expands
The main information technology indicators in the information technology market continue to increase in Morocco, as demonstrated by the latest report from the monitoring centre at the National Telecoms Regulation Agency (ANRT), which pointed to sustained growth in the mobile, landline and internet segments.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2009/07/23/feature-03
23 July 2009
Moroccan banks not affected by global downturn
The global downturn has not affected the Moroccan banking sector due to its limited exposure to the foreign markets and the low risks facing foreign counterparts, Governor of Morocco's central bank, Bank Al Maghrib, said on Thursday.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/moroccan_banks_not_a/view
22 July 2009
Morocco eying business tourists
Since classical tourism continues its decline, Morocco has started to shift its focus towards business tourists, who, it seems, are more spend-happy.
English
http://www.menafn.com/qn_news_story_s.asp?StoryId=1093260729
22 July 2009
Moroccan government, filmmakers unite to quell artistic piracy
Morocco is in the process of finalizing a contract to ensure greater '"synergy" in the fight against counterfeiting and piracy, MAP quoted Communications Khalid Naciri as saying Sunday (July 19th) in Khouribga.
English
20 July 2009
Moroccan Government to Promote Tourism
The Moroccan government recently set aside US$37.3 million to invest in the tourism sector. The government and the National Tourism Federation signed an agreement to promote the North African country as a tourist destination. The plans are to spend the money to increase the number of travelers to Morocco as well as to invest in new resorts and transportation links.
English
http://www.homesgofast.com/view_news/1655/
20 July 2009
New "business incubator" in Rabat encourages female entrepreneurs
To boost women's role in the economy, Morocco is offering young female innovators financial and technical support at a new business development centre.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2009/07/19/feature-01
20 July 2009
Rabat upgrades Zag permit
In a statement, San Leon and partners Island Oil & Gas and Longreach Oil & Gas said the move comes after a deal was signed on 18 June in Rabat and approved for release by Morocco's Office National des Hydrocarbures et des Mines (ONHYM) on 17 July.
English
http://www.upstreamonline.com/live/article183792.ece
20July 2009
Royal Mansour, Marrakech to open in November 2009 in Morocco
Royal Mansour, Marrakech will redefine the gold standard of luxury hotel properties when it opens its doors for the first time in November 2009 in Morocco. The distinctive and ingenious hotel design is exemplified by a labyrinthine series of underground tunnels to each of the 53 riads.
English
17 July 2009
Moroccan-German group to build two wind farms in southern Morocco
A Moroccan-German investment group plans to carry out two 672MW wind farms for a total sum of 15 billion dirhams (1.8 billion dollars) in the southern city of Dakhla.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/moroccan-german_grou/view
17 July 2009
Morocco seeks major role in 400 billion-euro solar power project
Morocco's Renewable Energy Development Centre wants a leading role in a recently announced 400 billion-euro solar power project in North Africa and the Middle East, according to the country's Renewable Energy Development Centre chief Said Mouline.
English
16 July 2009
MCA allocates $2.4mln to plant trees in northern Morocco
The Millenium Challenge Account (MCA) has allocated 19.6 million dirhams (2.4 million dollars) to plant 1,400 ha of olives in the northeastern province of Taza for the 2008-2009 crop year.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/mca_allocates_2.4m/view
15 July 2009
Moroccan banks provide MAD519.3b in loans in 2008
Moroccan banks provided an overall amount of MAD 519.3 billion (about USD 65 million) of loans in 2008, registering an increase of 23%.
English
http://www.menafn.com/qn_news_story_s.asp?StoryId=1093259391
6 July 2009
AFD lends Morocco €155mln
Morocco and the French Development Agency (AFD) signed on Monday three loan agreements worth 155 million euros (1.7 billion dirhams) to fund the educational system reform, the rural roads program and the infrastructure works of the Rabat-salé tramway project.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box4/afd_lends_morocco_1/view
Morocco seeks energy autonomy
The Moroccan government wants to reduce its reliance on energy from other countries. After the launch of a strategy dedicated to the sector in 2008, followed by the first energy board meetings last March, an energy efficiency agreement was signed on June 23rd, binding the public and private sectors to better energy consumption.
English
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20090704061621/Morocco%20seeks%20energy%20autonomy
2 July 2009
King appoints director of investment promotion agency
King Mohammed VI, on Thursday, appointed Fathallah Sijilmassi, former ambassador to France, as Director of the Moroccan investment promotion agency (AMDI).
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box2/king_appoints_direct/view
1 July 2009
Popular Bank to mobilize $2.4bn for Morocco's Green Plan
The Popular Bank will mobilize 20 billion dirhams (2.4 billion dollars) for the Filahi program that backs Morocco's Green Plan, the Bank's president, announced on Tuesday.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/popular_bank_to_mobi/view
29 June 2009
Morocco achieved 'significant' progress in implementing economic reforms, USAID
Morocco achieved a "steady, significant and substantial" progress in implementing reforms for economy liberalization, democratization and good governance, Director of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in Morocco said on Monday.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box4/morocco_achieved__si/view
UNCTAD hails Morocco's economic ties with African countries
The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) has hailed Morocco's efforts to strengthen economic ties with African countries.
English
http://www.menafn.com/qn_news_story_s.asp?StoryId=1093255480
26 June 2009
Morocco urges international community to strengthen support to developing countries
Minister of Economy and Finance, Salaheddine Mezouar, urged Thursday the international community to strengthen its support to developing countries, notably Africa and, initiate an urgent reform of the international financial architecture.
English
http://www.isria.com/pages/26_June_2009_35.htm
25 June 2009
Europe to get Electricity from Sahara
A 400-billion euro ($554 billion) project linking solar power produced in the Sahara to energy users in Europe and North Africa is a "win-win" for both continents and could also promote integration around the Mediterranean.
English
http://www.reuters.com/article/GCA-GreenBusiness/idUSTRE55N2WV20090624
23 June 2009
Morocco tourism sector to create 60,000 new jobs
Morocco plans to create 60,000 new jobs in the hotel sector by the end of 2012, Tourism Minister Mohamed Boussaid said at a national tourism conference Sunday (June 21st) in Saidia.
English
EIU highlights Morocco's efforts to counter effects of world economic crisis
British group, the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), has highlighted the efforts made by the Moroccan government to support the economic activity during the global economic crisis.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box2/eiu_highlights_moroc/view
22 June 2009
Morocco posts budget surplus of $4.5mln up to April
The implementation of the Finance Act showed a state budget surplus of 3.7 billion dirhams (457 million U.S. dollars) up to April 2009, down from 12.7 billion dirhams a year earlier, Morocco's Finance Ministry said.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/last_economy/morocco_posts_budget/view
Moroccan tourism professionals optimistic despite crisis
Moroccan officials and tourism professionals concluded a meeting of the tourism board in Saïda on Saturday (June 20th), agreeing to undertake new measures to protect the vital sector from the worst effects of the global economic crisis.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2009/06/22/feature-03
17 June 2009
Morocco plans port expansion with eye to recovery
Morocco is pressing ahead with a 9.25 billion dirham ($1.14 billion) port expansion near Tangier to ensure it is well placed to benefit from a future recovery in world trade, government ministers said.
English
http://www.forexpros.com/news/general-news/morocco-plans-port-expansion-with-eye-to-recovery-63745
16 June 2009
The Moroccan economy really is a shining beacon in a world of gloom
The main reason for Morocco's excellent economic performance is the record levels of rainfall in the country since last year, which is leading to massive growth in food production and agricultural exports. But even taking food out of the equation Moroccan economic growth was still recorded at 1.9% across all other sectors in the first quarter of this year.
English
http://www.live-pr.com/en/the-moroccan-economy-really-is-a-r1048286006.htm
15 June 2009
Renault says on track to build plant in Morocco-CEO
France's No.2 carmaker Renault is going ahead with plans to build a factory to produce low-cost vehicles in Morocco despite the global downturn, the company's chief said on Monday.
English
http://www.forbes.com/feeds/afx/2009/06/15/afx6545212.html
Emirati group Al Futtaim to build Moroccan residential community
Bouzinka, Morocco will be the site of a new multi-billion dollar planned community for 40,000 residents, Dubai-based Al Futtaim Group announced on Sunday (June 14th). The site will also include retail and leisure facilities.
English
12 June 2009
Alcoa expands fastening systems into Morocco
Alcoa Inc's Alcoa Fastening Systems business unit said Thursday that it completed the acquisition of Demicron SNC, which it will integrate into Alcoa Fixations Maroc of Morocco, for undisclosed terms.
English
http://in.reuters.com/article/governmentFilingsNews/idINN1133773420090611
11 June 2009
Morocco among top ten competitive countries in Africa, report
Morocco is in the 5th place with a score of 4.1 points after Tunisia (4.6 points), South Africa (4.4 points), Botswana (4.2 points) and Mauritius (4.2), said the report released in Cape town on the sidelines of the 19th World Economic Forum (WEF), held from on June 10-12.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/last_economy/morocco_among_top_te/view
10 June 2009
Morocco well resilient amid global crisis, AEO
Morocco has shown resilience amidst the global crisis and the country's climate of business continues to modernise, said the 8th African Economic Outlook (AEO), to be presented Friday in Rabat.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/last_economy/morocco_well_resilie/view
Morocco- Consumer credits increase 15.7% in Q1
Consumer credits increased 15.7% in the first quarter of the year, reaching MAD 36.2 billion, said the professional association of financing companies (APSF).
English
http://www.menafn.com/qn_news_story_s.asp?StoryId=1093252898
9 June 2009
Marrakech's Iconic Hotel La Mamounia To Re-Open
Mamounia, Marrakech's iconic hotel will re-open its doors on September 29, 2009 following an extensive restoration project led by internationally acclaimed interior designer, Jacques Garcia.
English
Morocco to host World Economic Forum
The 2010 World Economic Forum will be held in Marrakech next October, Moroccan Prime Minister Abbas El Fassi announced Monday (June 8th) in Rabat, after signing a memorandum of understanding with the WEF. Over 12,000 businessmen, government officials and civil society activists are expected to discuss Euro-Mediterranean co-operation.
English
6 June 2009
U.S. grants Morocco $280 thousand to develop port traffic
The United States Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) has granted Morocco's port agency (ANP) 280 thousand U.S. dollars to fund the technical development of the Vessel Traffic System (VTS).
English
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2009-06/09/content_11510461.htm
Casablanca tram project manager appointed
Casablanca tram development company Casa Transports has appointed a consortium of Systra and Moroccan firm CID Engineering & Development Consultants as project manager for the city's light rail scheme.
English
5 June 2009
Morocco, role model in rural electrification in Africa, expert
Morocco stands out as a role model in the field of rural electrification in Africa, expert and consultant MENA/Africa, Belkacem Boutayeb, said on Friday. Morocco's achievements in the area of rural electrification, a key element to reach sustainable development, enabled it to become an example for other African countries, Boutayeb told MAP on the sidelines of the closing session of the 3rd African Forum of Electric Energy held on June 4-5.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/last_social/morocco_role_model/view
Moroccan economy grew 5.6% in 2008, official
Moroccan economy posted a growth rate of 5.6% in 2008 against 2.7% in 2007, according to the High Planning Commissioner (HCP) in its provisional national accounts.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/last_economy/moroccan_economy_gre/view
29 May 2009
World to emerge from crisis in early 2010-IMF chief
"We expect to get out of the crisis early in 2010, especially if a clean-up of certain segments of the financial system is carried out," IMF Managing Director Dominique Strauss-Kahn told a conference in Morocco.
English
http://www.reuters.com/article/GCA-Economy/idUSTRE54S3A820090529
28 May 2009
Morocco encourages further MRE investments
The Moroccan government has drawn up a new anti-crisis plan, but this time to encourage Moroccans living abroad (MRE) to further invest in their country of origin.
English
http://www.menafn.com/qn_news_story_s.asp?StoryId=1093251006
USAID Announces Partnership With RAED on Climate Change and Water Issues
The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Arab Network for Environment and Development (RAED) announced today a strategic partnership working to increase regional capacity and awareness in the Middle East and Northern African (MENA) region.
English
27 May 2009
Morocco Beef Opens Doors for U.S. Grain
The U.S. Grains Council sees a great opportunity for America's corn growers in Morocco. With the announcement of an incentive program to establish 20 to 30 large beef feedlots and ten modern meat processing facilities designed to increase domestic beef production by 80% by 2020.
English
Arab Fund lends Morocco $219 mln for highway, dam
Morocco has received a $219.3 million loan to finance two highway projects and a dam from the Kuwait-based Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development, Moroccan officials said on Tuesday.
English
http://www.iii.co.uk/news/?type=afxnews&articleid=7339482&action=article
UNECA hails Morocco's stimulus measures
The United Nations Economic Committee for Africa (ECA) has hailed the measures that Morocco has taken to alleviate the effects of the international crisis and boost growth.
English
http://www.menafn.com/qn_news_story_s.asp?StoryId=1093250798
12 May 2009
UAE lays foundation for Morocco project
General Shaikh Mohammad Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and Prince Moulay Rachid of Morocco, on Tuesday laid the foundation stone of the $750 million-residential and tourist complex "Bab Al Bahr" in Morocco.
English
http://www.gulfnews.com/nation/Government/10313228.html
Anantara Resorts Announces Development in Morocco
Anantara Resorts, a leading hospitality and leisure organization in the Asia-Pacific region, is set to manage two unique five-star resorts in Morocco. This marks Anantara’s first entry into the African market.
English
http://www.ftnnews.com/content/view/5939/26/lang,english/
Moroccan economy grows despite crisis
Morocco's economy will grow 5.4 per cent this year despite the international economic crisis, Moroccan media Tuesday quoted the African Development Bank (AfDB) as saying.
English
11 May 2009
Morocco unveils Export Plus programme to boost foreign trade
European markets continue to face the global financial crisis and the Moroccan export sector - heavily dependent on customers in Europe - is feeling the fallout. To maximize exports into the region, encourage greater co-operation with foreign partners and counter the anticipated downturn in 2009, Morocco last week launched new strategic plan.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2009/05/11/feature-01
Maroc Telecom first-quarter revenue up 2.4 pct
Moroccan phone company Maroc Telecom reported a 2.4 percent increase in first-quarter revenue on Monday as growth in its customer base offset declining income per user.
English
http://www.forbes.com/feeds/afx/2009/05/11/afx6404691.html
North Africa Holding Reinforces Assoufid
Kuwait based investment company, North Africa Holding Company, announced a new partnership deal with the promoters and developers of the Euro 170 million Assoufid real estate project in Marrakech today.
English
http://www.albawaba.com/en/countries/Kuwait/245590
8 May 2009
Agreement for promoting investments in Morocco
An agreement for promoting investments in Morocco was signed this week-end in Barcelona, on the sidelines of an economic forum themed "investment opportunities in Morocco" by the Club of Foreign Moroccan Investors (CIME) and the Federation of Moroccan Cultural Entities in Catalonia (FECCOM), the agreement aims at the reinforcement of coordination between institutions and economic agents based both in Morocco and in Catalonia.
English
http://www.menafn.com/qn_news_story_s.asp?StoryId=1093247695
USTDA grants Morocco $463k to improve fisheries sector
The United States Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) and Morocco's state fisheries office (ONP) signed on Tuesday a financing agreement worth 3.8 million dirhams (462,970 dollars) to improve the fisheries' cold chain.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/last_economy/ustda_grants_morocco/view
Marrakech: a city of contrasts
Marrakech is Morocco’s most popular tourist destination and April its busiest month, but ever since the global financial crisis started to hit the Red City, tourism officials have been forced to think of new ways to keep the travelers coming.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/reportage/2009/05/08/reportage-01
7 May 2009
'Maroc Export plus' plan launched to boost exports
Minister of Foreign Trade Abdellatif Maâzouz announced, Wednesday in Rabat, a ten-year plan to boost exports. Dubbed "Maroc export plus", the plan aims to consolidate the achievements made in the exports sector and at the gradual positioning of the Kingdom in many strategic markets.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box4/maroc_export_plus/view
6 May 2009
Coral Hotels and Resorts signs its biggest project in Morocco with YNNA Holdings
Coral Hotels & Resorts has signed today at the Arabian Travel Market a management contract with YNNA Holdings for a palatial 5-star property in Morocco called Coral Mogador, Agdal - Marrakech.
English
http://www.ameinfo.com/195409.html
Morocco's reforms explain its resistance to economic downturn, UNECA
Reforms undertaken by Morocco partially explain its good resistance to the global economic meltdown, according to a report by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), Office for North Africa.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/last_world/morocco_s_reforms_ex/view
5 May 2009
Rezidor to grow its Moroccan footprint
The Rezidor Hotel Group is expanding its portfolio in Morocco with the Radisson Blu Hotel, Marrakech Carré Eden. The property will feature 204 rooms and be open for operations in 2011.
English
http://www.hospitalitybizindia.com/detailNews.aspx?aid=4622&sid=1
Despite crisis, investments continue to rise in Morocco, Minister
Despite the international crisis, investments continue to rise in all sectors in Morocco, Minister of Industry, Trade and New Technologies, Ahmed Reda Chami said on Monday. Speaking during a programme aired on Morocco's 2M TV, Chami said "investments continue to take place and they posted a rise compared to last year."
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box1/despite_crisis_inve/view
4 May 2009
Growth rate expected to exceed 5% in 2009, Finance Minister
Moroccan Finance Minister, Salaheddine Mezouar, expected the growth rate to exceed 5% this year despite the repercussions of the global economic and financial crisis that hit some sectors.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/growth_rate_expected_3/view
1 May 2009
Profits of listed companies shows distinct improvement in 2008
The profits and gross net output of companies listed on the market showed, in general, a distinct improvement in 2008 compared to 2007, financial analysts said on Tuesday in Casablanca.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/turnover_of_listed_c/view
30 April 2009
Morocco's ONCF, ONE to receive Spanish funds
Morocco's electricity and railway public utilities, ONE and ONCF respectively, will receive funds from the Spanish Institute for Official Credit (ICO) to finance their development projects. For this purpose, the three institutions signed two agreements in the presence of Morocco's Minister of economy and finance, Salaheddine Mezouar, and the Spanish Ambassador in Morocco, Luis Planas.
English
http://www.menafn.com/qn_news_story_s.asp?StoryId=1093246515
29 April 2009
Air Arabia Maroc officially launches
Air Arabia Maroc, Morocco’s new low-cost carrier (LCC), held an official ceremony today at Mohammed V Airport in Casablanca to mark the carrier’s launch.
English
http://www.albawaba.com/en/countries/Morocco/244728
28 April 2009
Town is 'emerging secret' of Morocco
The town of Moulay Idriss is emerging as a new tourism destination in Morocco, it has been suggested. In a feature on the location, the Times suggested that the settlement, which has deep historic and spiritual significance in the country, is becoming progressively more welcoming to outsiders, belying its image as a hostile and inhospitable place.
English
http://www.propertyshowrooms.com/morocco/property/news/town-emerging-secret-morocco_170668.html
IMF lauds good performance of Morocco's economy
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has lauded the Moroccan economy's good performance and "resilience" amid global economic turmoil. This came during meetings in Washington with a Moroccan delegation, held on the sidelines of the spring meetings of the World Bank (WB) and the IMF (April 25-26).
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box1/imf_lauds_good_perfo/view
27 April 2009
Banks in North Africa remain resilient to global market dislocations but face local risks, says S&P
Banks in North Africa appear resilient to the global financial storm that has hit numerous financial institutions around the globe said Standard & Poor's Ratings Services in a new report, 'Banks In North Africa Are Holding Up Under The Global Financial Storm But Face Local Headwinds'.
English
http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?id=35393&t=1&c=33&cg=4&mset=
Morocco launches development study
Morocco launched on Wednesday in Rabat a prospective study to further develop the residential real estate sector by the year 2020. Presented by Housing Minister Taoufik Hejira, this study aims at proposing a strategy for the development of the real estate sector, the preparation of regional and local plans for property investment, and the creation of an observatory.
English
http://www.menafn.com/qn_news_story_s.asp?StoryId=1093245485
24 April 2009
Virginia Gov. hails quality of Moroccan-U.S. relations
Visiting Governor of Virginia State, Timothy M. Kaine, hailed on Friday the quality of Moroccan-American relations, especially in the economic field. Kaine, who was speaking to the press, following a meeting with Moroccan Foreign Minister, Taib Fassi Fihri, expressed the will of the State of Virginia to further consolidate cooperation with the North African country in the port sector.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box2/virginia_gov._hails/view
23 April 2009
Morocco says ready to help Somalia upgrade economic structure
Morocco European Communities ambassador, Menouar Alem told the International Donor Conference for Somalia, gathered in Brussels, that the north African country is ready to help this country through a technical cooperation to recover its economy.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/last_world/morocco_says_ready_t/view
22 April 2009
BMW to debut new look in Morocco
BMW has announced that it will debut the latest version of its 320si during the next round of the World Touring Car Championship in Morocco.
English
http://www.crash.net/wtcc/News/145653/1/bmw_to_debut_new_look_in_morocco.html
Asian carmakers in talks on Morocco plants
Asian carmakers are in talks with the Moroccan government to set up plants with a capacity that could exceed 200,000 cars a year, a local car industry group said on Tuesday.
English
http://news.alibaba.com/article/detail/cars/100088826-1-asian-carmakers-talks-morocco-plants.html
Manpower, EFE to help Mena job-seekers
Manpower, leading employment services provider, has entered into a joint drive with the Education For Employment Foundation (EFE) to provide training and job prospects for first-time job seekers, especially in the Mena region.
English
http://www.tradearabia.com/news/newsdetails.asp?Sn=EDU&artid=160084
Moroccan entrepreneurship initiative shows success
Morocco has financed 1,492 projects, created 1,125 businesses, and generated 5,224 jobs since the 2006 launch of the Moukawalati (My Enterprise) programme, Moroccan Employment Minister Jamal Rhmani said Tuesday (April 21st) in Rabat.
English
21 April 2009
New investment projects to create 10,000 Moroccan jobs
Morocco's Investment Commission approved 16 new tourism, electronics, mines, glass industry and transport projects totaling 21.89 billion dirhams.
English
Morocco: record grain harvest in 2009
The 2009 cereal harvest will be exceptional, with 102 million quintals, or 69% more than a normal year with abundant rainfall, said Tuesday the Minister of Agriculture Aziz Akhenouch.
English
http://www.ennaharonline.com/en/economy/993.html
Research and Markets: Total Wireless Subscribers in Morocco to Reach 32 Million in 2013
Total Wireless Subscribers in Morocco to Reach 32 Million in 2013 with Medi Tel and Wana Taking Market Share Away From Maroc Telecom.
English
Formal trade agreement between Morocco & Canada sought
Keystone Agricultural Producers (KAP), the Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan (APAS), and Wild Rose Agricultural Producers (WRAP) said in a release they are encouraged that the federal government has engaged in discussion with the Kingdom of Morocco on opportunities for a free trade agreement
English
http://www.manitobacooperator.ca/issues/ISArticle.asp?id=99039&PC=FBC&issue=04212009
20 April 2009
On Location: Morocco
DigitalProductionME.com takes a look at filming locations in Morocco and the services the country provides to filmmakers.
English
http://digitalproductionme.com/article-1151-on_location_morocco/
17 April 2009
Morocco, Canada to intensify trade
Morocco and Canada agreed, on Thursday, to intensity bilateral trade and investment during a meeting between Moroccan Foreign Trade Minister, Abdellatif Maâzouz, and visiting Canadian agriculture minister, Gerry Ritz.
English
http://www.isria.info/en/17_April_2009_49.htm
16 April 2009
Morocco- Government signs agreements with 16 regions
It seems that this year's abundant rainfalls have heartened the Moroccan government to further promote the agricultural sector. A number of partnership agreements relating to agriculture, water and the environment were signed on Tuesday.
English