Latest News (3 March 2008 - 4 September 2008)
For more Morocco related news headlines, please visit Morocco News Line.
4-September-2008
Seasonal work flourishes during Ramadan
Small businesses began to thrive throughout Morocco's working-class districts last week ahead of the start of Ramadan. Each year, many people seize the opportunities offered by this special period of high consumption to take on seasonal work, thereby improving their income and staving off the torment of unemployment.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2008/09/01/feature-02
3-September-2008
Morocco's Logan penetrates Egypt's market
Moroccan-manufactured Logan cars will now be exported into the Egyptian market following an agreement between the two countries. The deal is by virtue of the Agadir Free Trade Agreement, signed in 2004 between Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt and Jordan and came into effect in April 2007.
English
http://www.africanews.com/site/list_messages/20310
3-September-2008
Morocco's ONE, Finnish company sign power plant deal
Morocco's National Electricity Office (ONE) and Finnish company Wartsila signed a contract to increase production capacity at the Central Gas Turbine in Dakhla by 16.5 mega watts.
English
2-September-2008
Moroccan wine industry improves with age
Cellars of Meknes, Morocco's largest wine producer, has steadily improved the quality of Moroccan wine over the last 40 years, while maintaining traditional wine-making methods.
English
http://www.france24.com/en/20080831-morocco-wine-making-quality-improves
2-September-2008
Energy products, capital goods push up Morocco's imports
Purchases of energy products, mainly crude oil, and capital goods have pushed up Morocco's imports of goods, which reached, up to the first seven months of 2008, some $23.7bln, i.e. a 29,9 % rise compared to the same period a year earlier.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/energy_products_cap_1/view
29-August-2008
Morocco upscales Tangier for $320mln
A large-scale development program, requiring MAD 2.46bln (about $320mln) to upgrade the northern city of Tangier was approved Friday under the chairmanship of King Mohammed VI.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box1/morocco_upscales_tan/view
29-August-2008
Morocco - Telecoms Market Overview Statistics & Forecasts
Morocco is one of the most advanced telecommunications markets in Africa, featuring a majority-privatized, highly profitable incumbent telco, three fixed network operators, a mobile penetration in excess of 55%, as well as the highest penetration and some of the lowest prices for broadband access on the continent.
English
http://hardware.itbusinessnet.com/articles/viewarticle.jsp?id=501330
27-August-2008
Circle Oil oil buys 60 pct of Oulad N'zala permit in Morocco
Circle Oil Plc. said it has completed the acquisition of a 60 percent interest in the Oulad N'Zala permit in the Rharb Basin in Morocco and added that production from ONZ4 gas discovery well in the same permit is scheduled to start production on Sept. 15.
English
http://www.forbes.com/afxnewslimited/feeds/afx/2008/08/27/afx5362572.html
26-August-2008
Mortgage Loans, Consumer Credit Climbs to Record in Morocco
Mortgage loans and consumer credits in Morocco surged to a record in the first half helped by lower interest rates.
English
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601116&sid=aQ22mbBBMq2Q&refer=africa
25-August-2008
Dana Petroleum to drill for oil and gas in Morocco
Dana Petroleum will begin drilling an exploration well in Morocco on the Bouanane license, the company said in a press release Wednesday (August 20th). Moroccan state oil and mining company ONHYM has a 25% interest in the project.
English
25-August-2008
Unemployment down in Morocco, but it’s still a long road
Morocco's unemployment rate, long a concern, has dropped steadily so far this year, on the back of services and construction growth. Further reforms to bolster competition and openness will help this trend continue.
English
http://dailystaregypt.com/article.aspx?ArticleID=15931
21-August-2008
Marrakesh for less
Cox & Kings has recently released its new Middle East brochure for 2009, featuring an extended collection of properties in Marrakesh and throughout Morocco.
English
http://www.easier.com/view/Travel/Holidays/article-198125.html
20-August-2008
Morocco to open airwaves to private media
Morocco's Superior Council of Audiovisual Communication will seek proposals for private radio and television services. The decision is part of the country's liberalization of audiovisual space begun two years ago.
French
http://www.apanews.net/apa.php?page=show_article&id_article=72976
19-August-2008
Morocco tops list of 'upcoming' backpacker destinations
The African country of Morocco has topped a list of up and coming backpacker destinations. According to new research from Hostelworld.com, the number of backpackers visiting Morocco has increased by 103 per cent since 2007.
English
http://www.gotravelinsurance.co.uk/public/news.asp?id=18739791
19-August-2008
Public savings in Morocco jump to more than US$2 billion
The Morocco's finance ministry says public finances of Morocco at the end of May saw public savings of US$2 billion and a budget surplus of US$985 million dollars.
English
18-August-2008
Concept of Escape realty development in Ajman goes to Morocco
Equine Management Services (EMS), the concept designers of Escape real estate development in Ajman, is all set to take the same concept to Morocco, according to a top executive.
English
18-August-2008
Morocco biggest market for micro finance in Mediterranean region
Morocco is the largest market for micro finance in the Mediterranean region, with nearly half of clients, reported the Facility for Euro-Mediterranean Investment and Partnership (FEMIP), which is under the European Investment Bank (EIB).
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/last_economy/morocco_biggest_mark/view
14-August-2008
Morocco: export of vegetables and fruit increased
Export of vegetable and fruit increased by 14% this year. Last year 640,000 tons were exported, this year it was 748,000 tons. This increase is the result of the fact, that rival countries, such as Spain, Italy and France are, because of production costs, no longer as interested in early crops as previously.
English
http://www.freshplaza.com/news_detail.asp?id=26631
14-August-2008
Morocco tops Maghreb region in remittances
Moroccan officials have heralded a significant increase in the amount of money Moroccan expatriates are sending home. Government efforts are underway to encourage Moroccans living abroad to increase their investments at home, and to allay concerns about bureaucracy and corruption.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2008/08/13/feature-02
13-August-2008
EU to review Morocco-Spain tunnel project
Morocco and Spain are working to finalize plans for a tunnel under the Strait of Gibraltar, to present to a joint EU-Moroccan commission in October. If successful, the tunnel would link Africa to Europe by rail.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2008/08/12/feature-02
13-August-2008
Morocco Property enters the Premier League with Moroccan Sands
Leading property magazine Homes Overseas today announced that Morocco had entered the Premier League of overseas destinations and is now amongst the elite destinations to buy a property abroad.
English
http://www.prleap.com/pr/124428/
13-August-2008
Morocco's public savings exceed $2 billion in five months
Morocco achieved $2.2 billion in public savings and a budgetary surplus of $900 million in the first five months of the year.
English
12-August-2008
Financial leaders say a closed Moroccan-Algerian border is bad for business
Since the Morocco-Algeria border closure in 1994, any potential resolution of the issue has been slowed by politics. Bankers and business leaders, however, argue that shared economic interests should soften hardened political positions.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/reportage/2008/08/04/reportage-01
12-August-2008
Foreign movie productions totaled $ 111 mln during 1st half of 2008
Some 17 foreign movies were shot in Morocco during the first half of 2008, worth some $ 111 mln, which is "a record that has never been achieved before," according to the Moroccan Cinematographic Center (CCM).
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box3/foreign_movie_produc/view
8-August-2008
Over 7 million passengers passed through Moroccan airports up to July
Some 7,480,838 passengers passed through the Moroccan airports during the past seven months, against 6,852,456 in the same period of 2007 , i.e. a 9.2% increase.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/last_general/over_7_million_passe/view
8-August-2008
Off the beaten track in Morocco
Off-Road-Destinations.com launches this week with a series of high adrenaline trips across the deserts and mountains of Morocco by self-driven quad, motorbike or 4x4.
English
http://www.easier.com/view/Travel/Holidays/article-195674.html
7-August-2008
Morocco second-quarter jobless drops to 9.1 pct
Moroccan unemployment fell to 9.1 percent in the second quarter from 9.6 percent in the first as construction and services soaked up more available labor, the state High Planning Commission said on Thursday.
English
http://www.moneybiz.co.za/business_in_africa/Morocco_second_quarter_jobless_drops_to_9_1_pct.asp
6-August-2008
Moroccan expatriates' remittances up 5% in 2008 H1
The remittances of the Moroccan expatriates living abroad jumped 5% in the first half of 2008, while travel earnings remained stable, reaching $ 3.2 bln, the "Office des Changes" (exchange rate monitoring department) said.
French
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box5/moroccan_expatriates6062/view
5-August-2008
Moratinos discusses new tunnel link during Morocco visit
Spanish Foreign Minister Miguel Angel Moratinos and his Moroccan counterpart Taieb Fassi Fihri met Monday (August 4th) in Tangier to discuss bilateral relations, including the project for the tunnel link between Morocco and Spain.
English
4-August-2008
Morocco beach resort launched
Diar’s Al Houara coastal resort project near Tangier in Morocco has been launched in London at a sales event attended by numerous international investors.
English
4-August-2008
Over 3M tourists visited Morocco in 1st half of 2008
Around 3.2 million tourists visited Morocco in the first half of 2008, a 12% rise compared with the same period of last year, revealed figures of the Department of Tourism.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box5/over_3m_tourists_vis/view
4-August-2008
Moroccans hail new plan for direct financial aid
Since oil and food subsidies may fail to reach the country's poorest citizens, Morocco is overhauling the Caisse de Compensation to provide eligible families with direct aid to pay for necessities.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2008/08/04/feature-02
31-July-2008
International Monetary Fund Praises Morocco's Economic Performance and Reforms; Continued Growth Anticipated
In a statement released this morning, International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Dominique Strauss-Kahn called Morocco "a pillar of development in the region" and congratulated King Mohammed VI and the Central Bank on Morocco's continued strong economic progress and effective management of monetary policy.
English
31-July-2008
Conference on Trade and Investment in Morocco
The Middle East Association MEA in partnership with the Moroccan British Business Council is organizing a major Tourism, Trade & Investment Conference in Tangier on 16 October, to be followed by site visits to major projects in Northern Morocco on 17 October.
English
30-July-2008
easyJet to add new Morocco routes in October
easyJet will be adding two new flights to Morocco in time for the winter season. The new cheap flights will depart from Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris and will be launched on October 27th 2008.
English
http://news.skyscanner.net/articles/2008/07/000493-easyjet-to-add-new-morocco-routes-in-october.html
30-July-2008
Morocco has been able to cope with the difficult international environment
Morocco has been able to cope with the difficult international environment marked by deep changes in the global economy, unprecedented increases in energy and staple food prices, as well as sluggish economic activity in many countries, especially in developed nations, the King said on Wednesday.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box5/morocco_has_been_abl/view
30-July-2008
Maroc Telecom first half net income up 18%; raises outlook
Maroc Telecom has posted a 17.6% year-on-year rise in first half net profit to MAD4.5 billion (USD618 million), on revenues that increased by 10% to MAD14.3 billion.
English
http://www.telegeography.com/cu/article.php?article_id=24311&email=html
29-July-2008
Essaouira named as a Moroccan property hotspot
Buyers looking to purchase an investment property in Morocco should consider Essaouira as it is likely to prove a draw to tourists, fleewinter.com has advised.
English
http://www.knightfrank.com/news/directnews/Essaouira_named_as_a_Moroccan_property_hotspot_01215.aspx
29-July-2008
IMF Executive Board Concludes 2008 Article IV Consultation with Morocco
Executive Directors welcomed Morocco's continued good economic performance, and concurred that, owing to an increasingly diversified economy, stronger public finances, and a sound financial sector, the outlook remains favorable in spite of the more difficult global environment.
English
http://www.imf.org/external/np/sec/pn/2008/pn0891.htm
29-July-2008
Morocco expects 6000 jobs from new investment projects
The Moroccan government approved 16 investment projects totaling $2.8m. Moroccan Prime Minster Abbas El Fassi said the projects in six regions of the country are expected to generate about 6,000 jobs.
English
28-July-2008
Regional NGOs unveil Maghreb Peoples' Charter
The first Maghreb Social Forum, which gathered some 2000 representatives of regional NGOs, ended Sunday (July 27th) in El Jadida, Morocco, with calls for opening borders between Maghreb countries.
English
28-July-2008
Morocco sees trade opportunity in global downturn
Slowing European Union economies could damage the exports Morocco needs to offset a soaring fuel import bill, but the north African country sees opportunities as well as risks, a government minister said on Monday.
English
http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/feedarticle/7683929
28-July-2008
Morocco to shift tourist focus away from the beaches
As part of the Vision 2010 tourist plan, Morocco hopes to bolster its tourism industry by encouraging visits not only to beaches, but also to rural mountainous and desert destinations such as Chefchaouen, Ifrane and Ouarzazate.
English
http://www.agoravox.com/article.php3?id_article=8538
25-July-2008
Morocco bans tobacco smoking in public places
Morocco's House of Representatives, the kingdom's lower House, Wednesday passed a bill banning smoking in public places, tobacco advertising and selling to minors, a statement by the legislative institution said Thursday.
English
http://www.afriquenligne.fr/morocco-bans-tobacco-smoking-in-public-places-200807249522.html
25-July-2008
Morocco promotes rural tourism
Morocco is co-operating with France and the EU to enhance tourist access to rural villages in the Kingdom, as part of Morocco's "Vision 2010" tourism initiative.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/reportage/2008/07/21/reportage-01
25-July-2008
Morocco financial market opening on track
Turbulence in the global banking system has not disrupted Morocco's plan to integrate further into financial markets by opening capital accounts and adopting a more flexible exchange rate, central bank officials said.
English
http://africa.reuters.com/business/news/usnBAN552942.html
24-July-2008
Kempinski to manage US$660 million Moroccan resort
Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company is developing a signature 18-hole golf course as part of a US$660 million luxury resort project on the Moroccan coast in Tangier.
English
http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?id=22873&t=1&c=33&cg=4&mset=
24-July-2008
Credit crunch 'not affecting Morocco'
According to Dominic Farrell, editor of Jet-to-Let magazine, the ongoing credit crisis is mainly affecting countries such as the UK, the US and Ireland. By contrast, many financial institutions in Morocco are still apparently lending money to customers.
English
24-July-2008
Govt. unveils 2008-2012 strategy to face global economic situation
Economy and Finance minister, Salaheddine Mezouar, unveiled, here Tuesday, the main aspects of the 2008-2012 strategy for socio-economic development to cope with the current global economic situation.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box3/govt._unveils_2008-2/view
24-July-2008
GAF AG Starts Geological Mapping and GIS Project for the Moroccan Ministry of Energy and Mines
GAF AG, an internationally active geo-information technology and consulting company, announces contract signature with the Ministry of Energy, Mines, Water and Environment in the Kingdom of Morocco and the beginning of work for the geological mapping of 7 map sheets in the Anti-Atlas area.
English
http://spatialnews.geocomm.com/dailynews/2008/jul/24/news1.html
23-July-2008
Morocco Likely To Boost Currency Flexibility By End-09
Morocco should be close to making its currency more flexible by the end of next year, Minister of Industry, Commerce and New Technologies Ahmed Chami said Wednesday.
English
http://www.fxstreet.com/news/forex-news/article.aspx?StoryId=182dfd22-7a10-4805-92d4-313ebb5a9d13
22-July-2008
Maroc Telecom revenues rise 10% in first half
Maroc Telecom has reported a 10% year-on-year rise in first half consolidated group revenues to MAD14.308 billion (USD1.985 billion), thanks to the continuing growth of its domestic and foreign mobile operations.
English
http://www.telegeography.com/cu/article.php?article_id=24151&email=html
21-July-2008
Worcester Firm Works To Strengthen Ties To Morocco
In order to work on better ways to attack cancer and other illnesses, Mostafa Abdelouahed has found ways to reach back to his Moroccan homeland to help build a cutting-edge research and development laboratory and pharmaceutical manufacturing plant.
English
http://www.wbjournal.com/news41230.html
21-July-2008
New oil exploration contract in Morocco
Morocco signed an oil exploration contract covering 19.951 km2 in the southeast region of the country with Petro-Canada and the German company RWE Dea based in Hamburg.
English
17-July-2008
Moroccan property firm sees big demand after IPO
Moroccan property firm Alliances Developpement Immobilier ADI.CS failed to trade after listing on Thursday as bids came in above a stock market trading limit and traders talked up the company's earnings prospects.
English
http://in.reuters.com/article/rbssIndustryMaterialsUtilitiesNews/idINL1783103620080717
17-July-2008
King launches industrial park for small businesses
King Mohammed VI launched on Thursday the construction of an industrial park aimed to encourage the creation of small and medium scale businesses in the northeastern region of Nador.
French
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box1/king_kicks_off_works/view
17-July-2008
New $26m housing project planned for Morocco's Nador province
King Mohammed VI inaugurated a $26.5m integrated housing programme in the Zaio urban commune in Morocco's Nador province on Wednesday (July 16th).
English
16-July-2008
Morocco seeks energy security
Morocco, a country where 96% of energy is imported, has announced a plan to reduce dependence on foreign supplies by encouraging increased efficiency and the use of sustainable alternative energy sources.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2008/07/16/feature-01
15-July-2008
Royal Air Maroc Awards Engineering Support Contract to Snecma Services
Royal Air Maroc, the national flag carrier of Morocco, based at the Casablanca international aircraft, announced today that it has signed an engineering support contract with Snecma Services (SAFRAN Group), a leading CFM56 OEM shop.
English
http://www.amtonline.com/article/article.jsp?siteSection=1&id=5979
15-July-2008
Morocco's economy 'will keep growing'
A government official in Morocco has predicted that the country will continue to see strong economic growth in the next four years.
English
15-July-2008
Moroccan Inflation Slowed to 4.7% in June on Lower Food Prices
Moroccan inflation slowed in June for the first time in five months as the cost of food in the North African country declined.
English
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601116&sid=aeZiAEUah7hw&refer=africa
14-July-2008
Remarkable Nine-Year Rental Guarantee at Salama Valley 3, Morocco
Villas at Salama Valley 3 are considered by the International Property Investment Network (IPIN) to be one of the most promising investment opportunities in Morocco.
English
http://www.pr-usa.net/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=118990&Itemid=34
14-July-2008
Egypt's Pioneers wants Gulf money to go to Morocco
Egypt's investment bank Pioneers Holding wants to attract excess liquidity from the oil-rich Gulf region and Egypt to Morocco and North Africa where it has recently expanded, its vice president said on Monday.
English
http://africa.reuters.com/business/news/usnBAN453274.html
14-July-2008
Cooperation, Med Union shape Zapatero's visit to Morocco
The issues of illegal immigration, planned launch of the Union for the Mediterranean (UPM) and economic cooperation have broadly dominated talks of Spanish Prime Minister Luis Rodriguez Zapatero with Moroccan officials.
English
http://english.people.com.cn/90001/90777/90853/6449044.html
14-July-2008
Royal Moroccan Air Force Selects Goodrich DB-110 Airborne Reconnaissance System
Goodrich Corporation has received a contract from the U.S. Air Force to provide its advanced DB-110 airborne reconnaissance system for the Royal Moroccan Air Force's new Block 52+ F-16 fighters.
English
http://www.tradingmarkets.com/.site/news/Stock%20News/1755317/
14-July-2008
Addoha seeks approval for $411 mln bond issues
Moroccan property firm Addoha ADH.CS will ask shareholders next month to approve bond issues worth 3 billion dirhams ($410.6 million) over the next five years and a 10-for-1 share split, it said on Monday.
English
http://in.reuters.com/article/rbssFinancialServicesAndRealEstateNews/idINL1455466920080714
11-July-2008
Morocco sees 6.3 pct annual growth until 2012
Morocco's economy is likely to grow by 6.3 percent annually over the next four years as investor-friendly reforms kick in and the kingdom pushes into new export industries and services, the finance minister said.
English
http://in.reuters.com/article/oilRpt/idINL1133262320080711
11-July-2008
Mediterranean Union dominates Zapatero's talks in Morocco
Spanish Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero arrived in Morocco Friday for talks that were dominated by economic issues and this weekend's planned launch of the new Union for the Mediterranean (UPM).
English
http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5hpQLFI6LU-QOZb2X8gKs7OoTWWvg
10-July-2008
Morocco to host new USD 100Mn medical complex in Casablanca
Abu Dhabi municipality and French Jacob France Engineering Consultancy Group, on Wednesday, signed a USD 100Mn contract for building the Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed specialized medical complex in Casablanca, Morocco's economic capital.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/last_social/morocco_to_host_new/view
10-July-2008
TransAtlantic announces farm-in to seven blocks in Morocco
TransAtlantic Petroleum Corp., an oil company engaged in the exploration, development and production of crude oil and natural gas in Morocco, Turkey and Romania, along with partner Longe Energy, Ltd., have agreed to farm-in to the Ouezzane-Tissa and Asilah exploration permits held by Direct Petroleum Morocco, Inc. and Anschutz Morocco Corporation in northern Morocco.
English
http://www.oilmarketer.co.uk/2008/07/10/transatlantic-farms-in-to-seven-blocks-in-morocco/
10-July-2008
Morocco's long-term IDR affirmed at 'BBB-'; outlook stable
Fitch Ratings affirmed the Kingdom of Morocco's long-term foreign and local currency issuer default ratings (IDR) at 'BBB-' and 'BBB', respectively, citing the country's resilient net external creditor position
English
http://www.forbes.com/afxnewslimited/feeds/afx/2008/07/10/afx5201386.html
9-July-2008
Morocco sees subsidies slowing 2008 inflation to 3.1%
Moroccan consumer prices are likely to rise 3.1 percent this year, compared with 3.8 percent in 2007, as subsidies on fuel and basic foods offset soaring world commodity prices, the High Planning Commission (HCP) said.
English
http://africa.reuters.com/business/news/usnBAN954534.html
8-July-2008
Damas to Open Stores in Morocco, Tunisia
Damas International, the international integrated jewelery and watch retailer the UAE-based jeweler, is to open stores in Morocco and Tunisia before the end of the year.
English
8-July-2008
Morocco grants Maersk, PSA container licenses
Morocco's main port state agency said on Tuesday it has awarded licenses to two consortiums led by Danish shipping and oil group A. P. Moller-Maersk and Singapore's state-owned PSA International.
English
http://africa.reuters.com/business/news/usnBAN855360.html
8-July-2008
House price growth continues strong in Morocco
The VIPs arrived long ago, including Sting, Mick Jagger, Princess Alexandra, David Bowie, Vanessa Branson, Alain Delon. Many occupy luxurious palaces around Marrakech. The tradition of Western interest goes back to Winston Churchill’s famous patronage of Marrakech’s beautiful Mamounia Hotel.
English
http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?id=22239&t=1&c=62&cg=4&mset=
7-July-2008
Morocco telecom company Meditel to invest US$577 million
Moroccan telecommunications service provider Meditel plans to invest MAD 4.2 billion (US$577.1 million) over the next two years to keep pace with market growth and develop new services, the company said on Wednesday.
English
http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?id=22229&t=1&c=129&cg=4&mset=1011
7-July-2008
Gazprom's real estate subsidiary to invest one bln euros in Morocco
The real estate subsidiary of Russian gas giant Gazprom is to invest nearly one billion euros in northern Morocco.
English
http://www.forbes.com/afxnewslimited/feeds/afx/2008/07/04/afx5184742.html
7-July-2008
Al Johara – Marrakech’s First Family Development
Al Johara – meaning simply ‘the Jewel’ - is a residential masterpiece set on 156 acres of land just 20 minutes from Marrakech. Whilst unashamedly five star marrying high qualities with extensive facilities and property designs inspired directly from the ancient walled city, Al Johara is also the first resort to cater to family living.
English
http://www.nubricks.com/archives/879/al-johara-marrakechs-first-family-development/
3-July-2008
Morocco's telecommunications sector soars to US$4.1 billion
Although the increase in Internet use falls behind that in telephony, Morocco's telecommunications sector is growing full throttle.
English
http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?id=22100&t=1&c=33&cg=4&mset=
3-July-2008
Algeria, Morocco sign power export accord
Algerian state electricity company Sonelgaz and Moroccan power utility ONE on Thursday signed a power transit agreement to allow Algeria to export up to 1 000 MW to Spain.
English
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article.php?a_id=137271
3-July-2008
Morocco's telecommunications sector booming
Ten years after the beginning of liberalization in Morocco's telecommunications sector, indicators for the industry are all green.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2008/07/02/feature-02
2-July-2008
Improving community access to ICT in Morocco
One-day training of trainers on community access to ICT, jointly organized by UNESCO and the Department of Post, Telecommunication and New Technologies (Moroccan Ministry of Industry, Trade and New Technologies), took place today in Rabat.
English
http://portal.unesco.org/ci/en/ev.php-URL_ID=27301&URL_DO=DO_TOPIC&URL_SECTION=201.html
2-July-2008
Contract for Khalifa medical complex in Morocco signed
A contract for building the Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed specialized medical complex in Casablanca, Morocco, was signed Wednesday between Abu Dhabi Municipality and French Jacob France Engineering Consultancy Group.
English
http://insidethegulf.com/central.php?o=1&s=832&d=3&i=758
2-July-2008
Morocco define Broadband Strategy with Cisco assistance
Internet Business Solutions Group (IBSG), the consulting arm of Cisco has entered into a partnership with the Moroccan government to boost economic development and accelerate digital transformation.
English
http://www.developingtelecoms.com/content/view/1294/26/
1-July-2008
Maghreb agriculture ministers: free trade zone enhances food security
Agricultural ministers from Algeria, Mauritania, Morocco, Tunisia and Libya gathered Monday (June 30th) in Fez for a conference on Maghreb agriculture.
English
1-July-2008
Morocco Q1 growth up 7 pct on farming recovery
Morocco's gross domestic product expanded 7 percent in the first quarter compared with 3 percent in the same period a year ago as the country's key farming sector recovered from drought, the High Planning Commission said on Monday.
English
http://africa.reuters.com/business/news/usnBAN123819.html
30-June-2008
Morocco calls for speeding up creation free zone in Maghreb
Moroccan Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Aziz Akhannouch called on Monday for stepping up efforts in order to create a free trade zone among Maghreb countries.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box4/morocco_calls_for_sp/view
30-June-2008
Property Logic wins CNBC awards in Morocco
Property Logic announced that it had won three of this year's CNBC Arabian Property Awards for the categories of Best Architecture, Best Development and Best Golf Development for its flagship project, Le Jardin de Fleur located in Mediterrania-Saïdia, Morocco.
English
27-June-2008
U.S. Grains Council Helps Promote Increase in U.S. Corn Exports to Morocco
The U.S. Grains Council identified Morocco as an emerging market for U.S. feed grains in 1994 and since then has mobilized the country’s poultry and livestock sectors to incorporate modern production practices.
English
27-June-2008
Indiana State-Moroccan group collaboration a winning prospect
For the first time in its history, a local public university was openly challenged by a capable and financially solid private group to help it start a not-for-profit university and come up with a plan within six months. The parties involved are Indiana State University and the Chaabi Group of Morocco.
English
http://www.tribstar.com/flashpoint/local_story_178235842.html
27-June-2008
Morocco praised for developing tourism sector
The Moroccan government has been praised for its efforts in boosting the country's tourism industry.
English
26-June-2008
DuPont Offerings Showcased at Crop Exhibition in Morocco
DuPont Crop Protection recently collaborated with DuPont business Pioneer Hi-Bred, DuPont Qualicon, and DuPont/Bunge joint venture Solae to present a "one-stop shop" at an international fruit and vegetable exhibition in Morocco.
English
http://www.webwire.com/ViewPressRel.asp?aId=68810
26-June-2008
Morocco Wants to Make Ethanol with Brazilian Help
Morocco is interested in producing ethanol and wants help from Brazil in the area. The subject was discussed Tuesday, June 24, in Rabat, by the Brazilian minister of Foreign Relations, Celso Amorim, and the Moroccan minister of Energy, Mines, Water and Environment, Amina Benkhadra.
English
http://www.brazzilmag.com/content/view/9494/1/
25-June-2008
Morocco - AfDB Approves 66 Million Euros for Public Administration Support Programme
The African Development Bank (AfDB) will support the third phase of Morocco's Public Administration Reform Support Programme (PARAP III) with a € 66 million loan approved on Wednesday in Tunis, by the Bank's Board of Directors.
English
http://allafrica.com/stories/200806250954.html
25-June-2008
Morocco seeks to raise renewable energies' contribution to energy production to 10% by 2020
Morocco has devised a national plan aimed at raising the contribution of renewable energies to the production of energy from 4% to 10% by 2020, Energy, Mining, Water and Environment Minister said on Tuesday.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box2/morocco_seeks_to_rai/view
24-June-2008
World Bank loan supports administrative reform in Morocco
The World Bank granted Morocco two loans totaling $250m to support the government's public administration reform and help the state electricity company improve its performance.
English
24-June-2008
Unemployment rates fall in Morocco
Morocco's urban unemployment has decreased 6.6% over the last nine years, while unemployment in rural areas fell from 5.4% to 3.8% over the same period, Minister of Employment and Vocational Training Jamal Rhmani said during a press briefing on Monday (June 23rd).
English
23-June-2008
Marrakech road-map adopted by African and South American states
African and Latin American trade ministers adopted the Marrakech road map which aims at the consolidation of a strategic South-South trade, during a meeting in Marrakech, Morocco.
English
http://en.afrik.com/article13922.html
23-June-2008
Morocco hosts international youth environmental conference
Young people from across the Mediterranean gathered in Ahfir, Morocco on Saturday (June 21st) to begin a nine-day conference on the environment.
English
23-June-2008
Morocco property firm Alliances plans $271 mln IPO
Moroccan property company Alliances Developpement Immobilier aims to raise 2 billion dirhams next month via an initial public offering on the Casablanca stock exchange, the company said on Monday.
English
http://africa.reuters.com/business/news/usnBAN356527.html
23-June-2008
Moroccan Furniture and Tiles: New Shipment Offers A Selection of Handmade Pieces
Star of Morocco announces the arrival of its newest container of exquisitely handmade Moroccan furniture. This latest shipment includes a vast array of Moroccan buffets and cabinets, small hand-painted Moroccan tables, hand-decorated tea glasses, as well as intricately decorated Moroccan doors.
English
http://www.24-7pressrelease.com/view_press_release_printer_friendly.php?rID=54193
20-June-2008
Africa, Latin America pledged to contribute to Doha Cycle conclusion
Trade ministers from Africa and Latin America have committed to actively contribute to the conclusion of the Doha cycle as soon as possible in order to reach a universal, functional, open, non-discriminatory and fair multilateral trade system, which promotes development.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box5/africa_latin_americ/view
19-June-2008
FTA exchanges constitute 90% of Morocco's foreign trade
Exchanges carried out as part of free trade agreements (FTA) constitute 90% of Moroccan foreign trade, most of which with the European Union, Finance minister, Mr. Salaheddine Mezouar, said on Wednesday.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box2/fta_exchanges_consti9554/view
19-June-2008
Moroccan finance minister forecasts up to 6.5% economic growth
Moroccan Finance Minister Salaheddine Mezouar said Wednesday (June 19th) that the country's economic growth could reach 6.2-6.5% in the coming years despite an "unstable international economic situation."
English
19-June-2008
Hubbard Technical Seminar in Morocco: A Confirmation of Success
The Hubbard technical seminar organized for the Moroccan hatcheries and producers held in April 2008 used the theme: "Better production to gain more". The seminar gathered the vast majority of the hatcheries and producers resulting in many fruitful discussions.
English
19-June-2008
African nations abolish visas for business travelers
Morocco and 24 other countries spanning half of Africa have agreed to abolish visas for their business travelers and some other professionals in what could potentially be a major relaxation of migration rules.
English
http://in.reuters.com/article/oilRpt/idINL1980716620080619
18-June-2008
IFC breaks new ground in MENA financing
The International Finance Corporation has signed a risk-sharing agreement with a group of four Moroccan financial institutions, enabling them to extend the tenor of a recently signed MAD300 million (USD40 million) loan to RADEEJ, the water and electricity utility of El Jadida.
English
http://www.globalwaterintel.com/index.php?page=articleView&articleId=2735
17-June-2008
Morocco-U.S. FTA hoists trade volume to $2.3 bln in 2007
Trade volume between Morocco and the United States totaled 2.3 billion U.S. dollars in 2007, up from 1.4 billion dollars a year earlier, due to the entry into force of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in 2006, a Moroccan official said Tuesday.
English
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-06/18/content_8388675.htm
17-June-2008
Altitude Software Customers Lead Morocco s Global Contact Center Outsourcing Market Drive
At the 5th Edition of the Siccam contact center trade show, the Altitude Software supported Morocco contact centers of Atento, b2s and Atlas Online win Siccam Awards for its performance and industry leadership.
English
http://www.tmcnet.com/usubmit/2008/06/17/3502861.htm
16-June-2008
Taqa forays into Morocco renewable energy sector
Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (Taqa), a global energy company, has signed a strategic partnership agreement with Theolia, a leader in the production of electricity from wind energy, thus marking its foray into renewable energy sector in Morocco.
English
http://www.tradearabia.com/news/OGN_145129.html
16-June-2008
New Radisson Resort in Saïdia/Morocco
The Rezidor Hotel Group announces the Radisson Resort & Spa Saïdia in Morocco – the property featuring 384 rooms and 97 villas is scheduled to open in Q3 2010. - With this signing we are adding a new and emerging country to our pipeline and are now present in 53 countries across EMEA”, comments Kurt Ritter, President & CEO of Rezidor.
English
http://www.boarding.no/art.asp?id=31948
16-June-2008
Morocco to build high-yield mobile phone camera factory
The U.S. firm Tessera Technologies, one of the world's leading providers of miniaturization technologies for the electronics industry, has announced it will build a factory in Morocco that will provide 10 percent of the world's needs for mobile phone cameras.
English
http://insurancenewsnet.com/article.asp?n=1&neID=20080616375.4_7562002bef76c0df
16-June-2008
GAMBLING OVERSEAS: On the road to Morocco
Moroccan developers of a nearly 1,000-acre lakefront site near the city of Ouarzazate have asked Las Vegas-based Global Gaming Group of CB Richard Ellis to help find a casino operator for the location. The development is expected to have multiple uses, including residential, nongaming hotels, shops, entertainment and a golf course with golf course villas.
English
http://www.lvrj.com/business/19954364.html
13-June-2008
Morocco moves to strengthen port co-op with Europe
The authorities of new Moroccan port Tanger-Med and three European ports have entered into a cooperation agreement with the aim of spurring the development of trade and strengthening security.
English
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-06/13/content_8362098.htm
13-June-2008
Summer sunshine awaits in Morocco
Despite skirting the Sahara desert, Morocco has a remarkably consistent climate with average temperatures of 22C in December and 27C in July/August making it an ideal destination for the school summer holidays.
English
http://www.easier.com/view/Travel/Holidays/article-185226.html
13-June-2008
Energy cooperation with African countries, strategic choice for Morocco
Developing energy cooperation with African countries has always been a strategic choice for Morocco, spurred by mutual interests and fruitful complementarity, Energy and Mining Minister, Amina Benkhadra, said, on Thursday.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/last_economy/energy_cooperation_w/view
12-June-2008
Crown to Build Beverage Can Plant in Morocco
Packaging products maker Crown Holdings Inc. said Thursday it will build a new beverage can plant on its existing food can manufacturing site in Casablanca, Morocco.
English
http://www.forbes.com/feeds/ap/2008/06/12/ap5111345.html
12-June-2008
Moroccan govt chooses Cisco to define broadband strategy
Cisco has announced that as part of a strategic agreement, Cisco's global consulting arm, the Internet Business Solutions Group, will work closely with the government of Morocco to analyze and define a set of strategic actions and initiatives to help accelerate the penetration of nation-wide broadband connectivity across the kingdom.
English
http://www.telecom.paper.nl/news/article.aspx?id=218639&nr=
11-June-2008
Morocco: Office National De L’Electricite (ONE) Support Project
The Office National de l' Electricite (ONE) Support Project for Morocco aims to support the Government of Morocco’s efforts to increase the efficiency and reliability of electricity supply.
English
11-June-2008
Morocco Sotheby's International Realty Introduces the Golf Villas and Apartments of Al Houara Resort
Morocco Sotheby's International Realty, the brokerage company for Qatari Diar, the real estate investment and development leader, showcases the most exclusive luxury resort in Tangier, Morocco Al Houara Resort.
English
http://www.emediawire.com/releases/2008/6/prweb1011074.htm
11-June-2008
Rabat hosts Arab economic and finance forum
The Arab Forum on Economic and Finance opened on Tuesday (June 10th) in Rabat with the participation of more than 17 Arab states.
English
11-June-2008
Morocco to back Mediterranean Union
A high-ranking official has revealed that the Moroccan government supports the French plan to launch a Mediterranean Union.
English
10-June-2008
TV channels available on cell phones in Morocco
Personal mobile television (TMP), a service that enables users of cell phones to receive free of charge television programmes, has been officially launched in Morocco, the National Radio and Television Broadcasting Corporation (SNRT) said on Monday.
English
10-June-2008
Statement by an IMF Staff Mission to Morocco
The mission met with senior government officials, the central bank, as well as representatives from the parliament, the private sector, and labor unions. Recent economic developments have been encouraging and demonstrate the resilience of the Moroccan economy.
English
http://www.imf.org/external/np/sec/pr/2008/pr08135.htm
9-June-2008
Third Moroccan mobile operator, Wana, to compete with Maroc Telecom, Meditel
A third Moroccan operator, Wana, said it will launch on the mobile telephony market on Tuesday, a market which is currently shared between Vivendi SA. unit Maroc Telecom and Meditel.
English
http://www.iii.co.uk/news/?type=afxnews&articleid=6753087&subject=general&action=article
9-June-2008
Morocco's growth rate stood at 2.7% in 2007, higher than forecast 2.2%,
Moroccan economy achieved a growth rate of 2.7 % in 2007, that is a 0.5 percentage point higher than the rate predicted (2.2%) last January by the projected economic budget, revealed, on Monday, the High Commissioner for Planning (HCP).
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box4/morocco_s_growth_rat/view
6-June-2008
Moroccan stock market to invite world’s top banks
Morocco’s fast-growing stock market plans to invite the world’s biggest investment banks to apply for membership this year, heralding a shake-up of a close-knit financial community dominated by local players.
English
6-June-2008
Total Telecom Subscribers in Morocco Will Increase from Our Projected 22.9 Million to a Forecasted 26.5 Million over the Forecast Period of 2008 - 2010
Research and Markets has announced the addition of new IE Market Research report 2Q08 Morocco Mobile Forecast, 2008 - 2010: Maroc Telecom will be losing market share to Wana in Morocco's mobile operator space to their offering.
English
http://www.tmcnet.com/usubmit/2008/06/06/3484652.htm
6-june-2008
Jorf Lasfar refinery plan in Morocco moves ahead
Abu-Dhabi's state-owned energy investment firm International Petroleum Investment Co. (IPIC) has approved a plan for construction of a refinery at Jorf Lasfar in Morocco, the latest of several projects announced for the port on the country's Atlantic seaboard.
English
6-June-2008
Pratt & Whitney Selected to Power Royal Moroccan Air Force F-16s
The Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-229 engine has been selected by the Royal Moroccan Air Force to power their new fleet of F-16 Block 52 aircraft.
English
http://www.prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/stories.pl?ACCT=104&STORY=/www/story/06-06-2008/0004827899&EDATE=
4-June-2008
Leading Woman Entrepreneur to Serve as Corporate Ambassador in Morocco
Kathleen K. Diamond, President/CEO of LLE(R), a global language interpretation and translation firm headquartered in Washington, DC, will be a participant in the Corporate Ambassadors Program in Casablanca, Morocco to discuss leading business issues focused on the theme "Entrepreneurship and Sustainable Growth".
English
http://www.prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/stories.pl?ACCT=104&STORY=/www/story/06-04-2008/0004826252&EDATE=
4-June-2008
Hyatt signs Marrakech hotel deal
Global Hyatt Corporation and Alliances Group have announced the signing of a management agreement for Park Hyatt Marrakech in Morocco.
English
http://www.tradearabia.com/news/TTN_144581.html
3-June-2008
Moroccan government develops strategy to tackle rising prices
In response to rising prices across a number of goods and materials, the Moroccan government has announced a new initiative to help consumers and stabilise the budget.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2008/06/03/feature-01
3-June-2008
Morocco calls for ISF contribution to development in LDCs
Morocco has called for the contribution of the Islamic Solidarity Fund (ISF) to development in its least developed Member Countries (LDCs).
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/world/morocco_calls_for_is/view
3-June-2008
Modern Morocco working hard on investment image
As emerging markets go, Morocco is an especially interesting case. It's either an open goal waiting to be scored, or a potential investment nightmare. The government is certainly doing its bit, as visitors to the grand new Menara airport in Marrakech cannot fail to notice.
English
http://www.business24-7.ae/Articles/2008/6/Pages/06042008_c7607b52aa7b458781651286db626f26.aspx
2-June-2008
Emaar Morocco launches sale of Aldea townhomes and villas in Dubai
Emaar Morocco, the country’s subsidiary of Emaar Properties PJSC, is launching the sale of exquisite beachfront villas and forest-fringing townhomes located within its Tinja master-planned community at a special sales event in Dubai.
English
http://www.ameinfo.com/158922.html
30-May-2008
King's message to the TICAD conference in Tokyo
Click here for the full text of the message addressed by King Mohammed VI of Morocco to the 4th Tokyo's International Conference on Africa Development (TICAD).
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/royal_activities/king_s_message_to_th_1/view
29-May-2008
First Phase Begins at Tinja, Morocco
The long-awaited project at Tinja is now on official release and is fast attracting attention amongst early investors. According to the International Property Investment Network (IPIN), the winning combination of a fantastic location in an emerging area within close proximity of Tangier, and development by Emaar, world leaders in international real estate development, underlines the great investment potential of the townhouses at Tinja.
English
http://www.emediawire.com/releases/2008/5/prweb974744.htm
28-May-2008
Morocco's economic performance was remarkable in 2007
Morocco's economic performance in 2007 was remarkable due to both favorable international conditions and macroeconomic modernization undertaken by the north African country, according to a joint report by the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/morocco_s_economic_p/view
27-May-2008
Gulf states give $800 million to Morocco
The UAE donated $300 million and Saudi Arabia donated $500 million towards the fund. The fund will be used to generate an income for the government to deal with the rapidly increasing price of oil, the Moroccan Ministry of the Economy and Finance said in a press release.
English
http://www.thenational.ae/article/20080525/OPINION/859806308/-1/ART
27-May-2008
Morocco and Tunisia will be increasing their DDGS imports, according to Dr. David Hutcheson, U.S. Grains Council consultant and ruminant nutritionist.
According to Shultz, U.S. DDGS imports made by Morocco and Tunisia totaled 60,000 metric tons in 2007, compared to 27 metric tons imported in 2006. An increasing amount of these imports will be headed toward new beef feedlots that are being built in these countries.
English
http://www.allaboutfeed.net/news/id102-50503/more_ddgs_to_morocco_and_tunisia.html
27-May-2008
Investors 'can make money in Morocco'
Agadir on the Moroccan coast could be a lucrative market for those looking for property investments or an overseas investment, according to The Daily Telegraph.
English
22-May-2008
Investors advised to consider Moroccan market
Overseas property investors have been advised to enter the Moroccan market sooner rather than later. According to property expert Fouad Akalay, the north African country is currently enjoying considerable growth in its tourism industry.
English
20-May-2008
Morocco plans major transport infrastructure overhaul
Morocco will soon launch a $16.3 billion transport infrastructure program, according to Morocco's Transport Minister Karim Ghellab on Monday (May 19th).
English
20-May-2008
Morocco creates new agency to implement 'Green Morocco plan'
Morocco has created a new agency that will be in charge of implementing Morocco's plan to promote the agriculture sector's competitiveness dubbed "Green Morocco Plan".
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/last_social/morocco_creates_new3581/view
19-May-2008
Morocco's call centres generate over $270m annually
Morocco's call centres generate more than $270.3 million per year, Senior Adviser to King Mohammed VI André Azoulay said on Friday (May 16th) at the opening of the 5th International Exhibition of Call Centres in Morocco (SICCAM).
English
19-May-2008
(World Bank) Morocco: Third Public Administration Reform Development Policy Loan ($100 million)
Morocco's public administration reform program, initiated in 2003, aims at improving government efficiency in the management of budget resources through greater transparency and accountability.
English
19-May-2008
North Africa's leading banks have the potential to make investment grade
The North African banks that Standard & Poor's rates are on a good credit trajectory and the strongest of them have the potential to eventually reach investment grade, said Standard & Poor's Ratings Services in a report published today, and tittled 'North Africa's Leading Banks Are Now On The Path To Investment Grade But Getting There May Take Time'.
English