Latest News (3 March 2008 - 28 August 2009)
For more Morocco related news headlines, please visit Morocco News Line.
8/28/2009
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?xfile=/data/business/2009/August/business_August608.xml§ion=business8/27/2009
Moroccan fixed, mobile internet users up 15 percent in Q2Morocco 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
http://www.menafn.com/qn_news_story_s.asp?StoryId=1093244096
Morocco's OCP profit soars 9 times on prices rise
Morocco's Office Cherifien de Phosphate (OCP), the world's leading phosphate exporter, posted a 9 times net profit increase to 23.4 billion Moroccan Dirham ($2.8 billion) last year mainly on higher prices, its chief executive said on Wednesday.
English
http://www.forbes.com/feeds/afx/2009/04/15/afx6294509.html
$2.6mln projects in Morocco under way
Some 32 investment projects, worth 22 billion dirhams (2.6 million dollars), are currently scheduled in various sectors following their approval during the latest meeting of the ministerial commission of investments, Prime minister, Abbas El Fassi, said on Wednesday.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/2.6mln_projects_in/view
15 April 2009
MoneyGram Introduces Cash to Card Money Transfers in Morocco
MoneyGram International a leading provider of global payment services, announced today it has expanded its money transfer services in Morocco with the introduction of a cash-to-card program offered by the company's agent Credit du Maroc.
English
http://www.tradingmarkets.com/.site/news/Stock%20News/2272955/
Engineers begin work on Moroccan high-speed rail link
Morocco is moving forward with plans to expand its rail network by building a high-speed rail service linking Tangier to Casablanca. A new TGV line will cut travel times between the two cities from more than five hours to a bit more than two.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2009/04/15/feature-02
US consulate general launches new visa programme for Moroccan businessmen
The US general consulate in Casablanca, in partnership with the US chamber of commerce in Morocco, launched, Tuesday, a new visa programme for Moroccan businessmen.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/last_general/us_consulate_general/view
Morocco's Cosumar eyes sugar assets abroad
Moroccan sugar producer Cosumar, which posted an 89.6 percent net-profit increase last year, is looking to acquire sugar assets in Brazil and Africa, its chief executive officer said on Tuesday.
English
http://af.reuters.com/article/investingNews/idAFJOE53E01E20090415
Moroccan banks did well in 2008
Moroccan banks did well in 2008, despite the international financial crisis. They provided an overall amount of credits reaching MAD 512 billion and received up to MAD 564 billion of deposits.
English
http://www.menafn.com/qn_news_story_s.asp?StoryId=1093243927
14 April 2009
Morocco takes measures to promote agriculture, water, environment sectors
Several partnership agreements on agriculture, water and environment were signed, on Tuesday, under the chairmanship of King Mohammed VI. The agreements are part of the agricultural strategy "Green Morocco Plan" and the national water strategy.
French
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box1/morocco_takes_measur/view
13 April 2009
Financial data Processing Unit created in Morocco to fight money laundering
Prime Minister, Abbas El Fassi, on Friday, presided over the installation ceremony of the chairman and members of the Financial Data Processing Unit (UTRF). Besides collecting, processing and disseminating financial data, this new body is meant to ensure coordination among administrations, public institutions and artificial persons to fight money laundering.
French
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/financial_data_proce/view
9 April 2009
RAM signs ten-year distribution agreement with Amadeus
Morocco's flag carrier, Royal Air Maroc (RAM), signed on Tuesday a 10-year distribution agreement with Amadeus, a global leader in technology and distribution solutions for the travel and tourism industry, RAM said in a press release.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/ram_signs_ten-year_d/view
8 April 2009
Moroccan elected vice-chairman of Arab businessmen group
Morocco's Chafik Rachadi has been elected vice-Chairman of the Arab Business Group at the ongoing 36th Arab Labor conference, held in the Jordanian capital, Amman.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box5/moroccan_elected_vic/view
7 April 2009
Morocco, Tunisia open high joint commission
Moroccan Prime Minister Abbas El Fassi welcomed his Tunisian counterpart Mohammed Ghannouchi Monday (April 6th) in Rabat for the 15th session of the Moroccan-Tunisian high joint commission. Discussions will focus on bilateral co-operation in trade, technology, customs and finance.
English
Fourth international Agriculture Fair in Morocco will be a success, event commissioner
General Commissioner of the International Agriculture fair in Morocco (SIAGRIM), Jaouad Chami voiced confidence in the success of the fourth edition of this event, due on April 22-27 in the central city of Meknes.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/last_social/fourth_international/view
6 April 2009
Morocco's economic growth up 5.4% in 2008, HCP
The High Planning Commission (HCP) said the national economy growth rate has reached 5.4 % in 2008, on good agricultural performance, up from 2.7 a year earlier.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/morocco_s_economic_g/view
3 April 2009
'Morocco has opportunity to offer high-quality goods at lower cost', OBG
The London-based Oxford Business Group (OBG) pointed on Thursday to the kingdom's economic achievements, saying that "at a time when European economies are contracting, Morocco has the opportunity to offer high-quality goods at a lower cost."
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box5/morocco_has_opportu/view
Morocco: Natural gas discovery to ease strain on budget
The finding of the two natural gas reserves comes only a few weeks after three onshore wells were dug in the Gharb as part of efforts by the Moroccan government to develop its energy resources.
English
http://en.afrik.com/article15533.html
23 March 2009
Public boarding schools help Moroccan girls continue education
An innovative boarding school programme in Morocco is reducing the delinquency rate for female students.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/reportage/2009/03/2/reportage-01
International NGO calls for investigation into Polisario's embezzlement of aid
The International Democratic Centre (IDC), an international rights NGO, called on Monday for setting up a fact-finding commission to look into the Polisario's embezzlement of humanitarian aid sent to the population held in the Tindouf camps, south west of Algeria.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/social/international_ngo_ca/view
20 March 2009
Morocco:WB Approves the First Development Policy Loan in Support of the Solid Waste Sector
The World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors on March 19 approved a Municipal Solid Waste Sector Development Policy Loan in the amount of US 132.7 million.
English
http://finchannel.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=32352&Itemid=9
Morocco: Royal Air Maroc to increase aircraft fleet
Official sources from Royal Air Maroc (RAM) have revealed that the company will order six new aircraft before the end of March. RAM is among the African companies that are highly profitable and aims at strengthening its Boeing fleet to reach 50 aircraft.
English
http://en.afrik.com/news12676.html
Moukawalati generated over 5,100 jobs by end January
Some 5,167 jobs have been created by January 2009 within the framework of the Mukawalati (my enterprise) program, devised to prop up young people's businesses.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/moukawalati_generate/view
China grants Morocco $1.5m to rev up technological cooperation
China has granted Morocco 10 million yuan (about $1.5 million) to fund bilateral cooperation projects in the field of technology, local MAP news agency reported late Thursday.
English
http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/bizchina/2009-03/20/content_7601803.htm
Moroccan developer CGI 2008 net profit up 38 pct
Moroccan real estate developer Cie. Generale Immobiliere reported 38 percent growth in 2008 net profit as new projects came to fruition and said the global economic crisis would not disrupt its plans.
English
http://www.moneybiz.co.za/business_in_africa/Moroccan_developer_CGI_2008_net_profit_up_38_pct.asp
17 March 2009
Supermarket business flourishing in Morocco
Dominated for a long time by traditional small shops, the retail business in Morocco is witnessing a significant transformation with the opening of national supermarkets and the recent coming of new international ones.
English
http://www.menafn.com/qn_news_story_s.asp?StoryId=1093238522
13 March 2009
Africa Conference Debates Way Forward Amid Crisis
Africa’s banking sector has not yet suffered as much as financial sectors in other parts of the world. In Morocco, for example, net profits in the banking sector are expected to grow at around 15 percent this year, said Mohamed Benchaaboun, CEO of Morocco’s Banque Centrale Populaire.
English
http://www.imf.org/external/pubs/ft/survey/so/2009/CAR031309A.htm
11 March 2009
King launches new urban zone in Fez for $ 93.8 mln
King Mohammed VI launched Wednesday a new urban pole in the province of Moulay Yakoub in the northern city of Fez for a sum amounting to 812 million dirhams (93.8 million dollars).
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box1/king_launches_new_ur/view
10-March 2009
Manufacturing: The Rise of the Maghreb
The Maghreb's appeal is obvious. It's in the Continent's backyard: Tangier lies just eight miles from Spain across the Strait of Gibraltar. The region's governments are relatively stable and business-friendly. And it's cheap, with factory wages averaging $195 to $325 a month. Compare that with the average $671 monthly paid by French automaker Renault at its Dacia Logan factory in Romania.
English
http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/09_11/b4123038640646.htm
9-March-2009
Morocco posted budget surplus for two consecutive years, official
The Moroccan economy made progress in several fields in recent years, as a budget surplus was posted for two consecutive years, the international weekly, Jeune Afrique said, quoting High Commissioner for Planning Ahmed Lahlimi in its latest edition, adding that the 2009 budget is expected be expansionist.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box5/morocco_posted_budge/view
6-March-2009
Troon Golf to manage golf resort in Morocco
The $350 million Mazagan Resort will be completed by autumn 2009 and will consist of an 18-hole golf course, a 500-room hotel, 12 restaurants, a luxurious spa, casino, nightclub and a conference centre.
English
Morocco to invest $10 bln in energy projects
Morocco, the only North African state without oil of its own, plans to invest 90 billion dirhams ($10.29 billion) in projects across the energy spectrum, its energy minister said on Friday.
English
http://www.iii.co.uk/news/?type=afxnews&articleid=7205706&action=article
5-March-2009
Pilot programme trains female entrepreneurs in Morocco
To help women start small businesses and achieve financial independence, the Chorouk Centre for Social Development recently launched a two-part training programme in Fez.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2009/03/05/feature-02
4-March-2009
Experts highlight need for efficient competition policy to protect national economy
Setting up an efficient competition policy is a guarantee for protecting the national economy from monopolization, international experts underlined at a meeting held Tuesday in Rabat.
French
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/experts_highlight_ne/view
3-March-2009
Morocco, guest of honour at Ecorismo 2009 fair
Morocco will be the guest of honour at the Ecorismo 2009 Fair, an event dedicated to environment-friendly tourism, slated for March 17-18 in Arles (southern France).
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/morocco_guest_of_ho/view
2-March-2009
France looks to its neighbors in the south
Morocco represents an economic opportunity that some European companies and educational establishments have been pursuing energetically, the daily says in its Monday issue, noting that the ambitions project Union for the Mediterranean (UPM), seeks an institutional framework for such a burgeoning reality.
English
http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/47e49910-06cb-11de-ab0f-000077b07658.html?nclick_check=1
27-February-2009
ColonyCapita/Satocan consortium maintains commitment to Taghazout resort project
ColonyCapita/Satocan consortium, in charge of developing the Taghazout luxury resort at the eastern end of Morocco's north Mediterranean coast at the borders with Algeria, said it maintains its commitment to carry out this project, whose "works proceed according to the planning set out initially."
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/last_economy/colonycapita_satocan/view
26-February-2009
Morocco embarks on financial aid project to poor families
An unprecedented financial aid scheme to encourage mass education under the framework of the “Tayssir” proposal has been initiated in Morocco. Some 38,000 families with children enrolled in primary schools have already received financial aid ranging between 60 and 100 Dirham per month per pupil.
English
http://en.afrik.com/article15349.html
Morocco is leader in MENA region in human rights, US diplomat
Morocco's achievements in the area of human rights put it in a leading position in the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region, said, on Thursday, Robert P. Jackson, acting chargé d'affaires at the US Embassy in Rabat.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box3/morocco_is_leader_in/view
25-Feburary-2009
Maroc Telecom to stay on growth track in 09-chairman
Maroc Telecom, Morocco's leading telecoms group, will stay on a strong track of growth this year despite greater competition, company chairman said on Tuesday.
English
http://www.forbes.com/feeds/afx/2009/02/24/afx6089130.html
24-February-2009
Depa subsidiary wins $50m contract in Morocco
Depa Limited, one of the largest providers of interior contracting services worldwide, has announced that its Moroccan subsidiary DepaMar has been awarded a $50-million (Dh183 million) order by Kerzner International Developments at the Maz-agan Resort villas in El Jadida, on Morocco's Atlantic coast.
English
http://www.gulfnews.com/business/Industry/10289151.html
Moroccan microloan sector revises strategy
The National Federation of Microcredit Associations (FNAM) is hoping to give a new impetus to its work fighting poverty in Morocco. Microcredit has so far helped over 1,250,000 beneficiaries, for a total outlay of 5.69 billion dirhams.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2009/02/24/feature-02
20-February-2009
Over one million benefited from micro credits in 2008, FNAM
Over 1.2 million people benefited from micro-credits in 2008 in Morocco, Chairman of the national federation of micro-credit associations (FNAM), Tariq Sijilmassi said Thursday.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/last_economy/over_one_million_ben/view
Morocco hosts first cross-Maghreb road safety workshop
Maghreb road safety officials meet in Rabat to tackle the issue of traffic accidents. "Practical solutions to bring an end to this problem exist," said the president of Prévention Routière Internationale.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2009/02/20/feature-02
19-February-2009
Maghreb highway safety forum presses for region-wide initiatives
Moroccan Transport Minister Karim Ghellab opened the seminar by telling participants that he hoped the gathering would foster a real partnership among the five Maghreb countries to guarantee the safety of the region's citizens.
English
Movie magic in Morocco
Naturally, now that the King of Morocco’s ambitious plans for economic diversification are coming to fruition as laid out and detailed in Vision 2010, the film industry is one to benefit even more from the new policies and legislation that have brought about greater business transparency in a successful bid to attract significant and sustainable levels of foreign direct investment.
English
http://www.themovechannel.com/news/88810ce9-4877/
Industrial pact to create 220,000 jobs in Morocco by 2015
King Mohammed VI presided over the signing Friday (February 13th) in Fez of the National Pact for Industrial Emergence, a collaborative agreement between the public and private sectors for industrial development in Morocco.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2009/02/19/feature-02
18-February-2009
Morocco announces re-launch of Moukawalati programme
In the hopes of easing the bureaucratic hurdles involved in setting up small businesses, Morocco re-launched a more accessible Moukawalati programme.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2009/02/18/feature-02
Morocco's energy strategy to be presented at conference early March in Rabat
The conference, the first of its kind, will ponder on a set of energy-related issues and highlight the need to implement the national energy strategy, which is devised to ensure energy supply, guarantee access to low cost energy and reduce energy dependency by diversifying energy resources and developing national energy potentials, Minister of Energy, Amina Benkhadra, said at a press briefing.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/morocco_s_energy_str_2/view
Second Luxury Resort for Raffles in Morocco
Raffles Hotels & Resorts announced today that it will manage a new resort in Taghazout, Morocco. The resort, owned by global real estate investment firm Colony Capital, will be located along the pristine Atlantic coast north of Agadir.
English
http://www.earthtimes.org/articles/show/second-luxury-resort-for-raffles-in-morocco,719783.shtml
17-February-2009
Public and Private Sectors Unite to Advance Industry in Morocco
King Mohamed VI, ministers and leaders from the private sector assembled in Fes on Friday to inaugurate the country’s new National Industrial Emergence Pact.
English
Circle Oil makes third Moroccan gas discovery
AIM-listed oil and gas exploration company Circle Oil (COPU.L: Quote) has made its third successful gas discovery in Morocco, the company said on Sunday.
English
http://www.yourindustrynews.com/circle+oil+makes+third+moroccan+gas+discovery_24212.html
13-February-2009
Morocco seeks to raise renewable energies share in power generation
Morocco seeks to raise by 20% the share of renewable energies in power generation by 2012, as it has much potential in wind, solar and hydroelectric energies, an official of energy ministry, said on Thursday.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/morocco_seeks_to_rai_1/view
11-February-2009
Morocco signs framework convention for sustainable development of coastline
A framework convention on the sustainable development of the coastline of the Mediterranean intercontinental biosphere reserve was signed Tuesday in Rabat between the Mohammed VI Foundation for the Protection of Environment and six local bodies.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/last_social/morocco_signs_framew/view
10-February-2009
Morocco moves closer to creating 80,000 new tourist beds
Morocco has finished building a tourism complex that includes nine hotels with 17,000 beds, as part of its plan to create 80,000 new tourist beds by 2010, Tourism Minister Mohamed Boussaid said.
English
http://af.reuters.com/article/investingNews/idAFJOE5190E920090210
CEN-SAD countries mull creation of FTZ, FM
The member States of the Sahel-Sahara community (CEN-SAD) are moving towards the establishment of a free trade zone, Moroccan Foreign Minister, Taib Fassi Fhiri announced on Monday.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/cen-sad_countries_mu/view
09-February-2009
Morocco jobless rate eases to 9.6 pct in 2008
Morocco's 2008 jobless rate fell to 9.6 percent last year from 9.8 percent in the previous year on growth in urban job creation which offset weakness in the farming sector, official figures showed on Monday.
English
http://af.reuters.com/article/investingNews/idAFJOE5180DJ20090209
Best for high-level hiking: Morocco
From high-level trekking in Morocco's Atlas Mountains to rubbing shoulders with A-listers on Hollywood Boulevard, and from rural retreats off Tuscany's beaten track to jet-set hang outs for Moscow's super-rich, our writers have been to the ends of the earth to find a world of inspiration
English
http://www.independent.co.uk/travel/africa/best-for-highlevel-hiking-morocco-1545860.html
Morocco attracted 80% of Arab investments in 2008,
Morocco attracted 80% of Arab investments in 2008, writes the Paris-based monthly "Afrique Magazine" in its latest issue.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/morocco_attracted_80/view
06-February-2009
Morocco banks on budgetary surplus of $348 mln
Morocco is expected to close the year 2008 with a budgetary surplus ranging between MAD 3-bln and MAD3.5bln ($348mln to $407mln), despite a difficult international context marked by a severe economic crisis.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/last_economy/morocco_banks_on_bud/view
05-February-2009
Morocco to reduce unemployment to 7% by 2012
The Moroccan government is set to bring the unemployment rate under 7% by 2012, Moroccan prime minister, Abbas El Fassi, said on Wednesday.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box3/morocco_to_reduce_un/view
Moroccan valley branded next big thing in investment property
An idyllic part of Morocco south of Marrakech could become “the next big place” in new homes and holiday investment property, experts have said.
English
04-February-2009
P&G: Get that 'Moroccan Bazaar' smell
Cincinnati-based Procter & Gamble Co. on Wednesday launched a Febreze Destinations Collection, fragrances from around the world in three scents -- Hawaiian Aloha, Brazilian Carnaval and Moroccan Bazaar.
English
http://news.cincinnati.com/article/20090204/BIZ01/302040015
ONA's Wana wins Morocco's third mobile licence
Wana, the telecoms arm of Morocco's biggest conglomerate, ONA, said on Wednesday it had won the country's third wireless phone network, part of a government drive to liberalise the telecoms sector and cut prices.
English
http://in.reuters.com/article/rbssTechMediaTelecomNews/idINL475650020090204
King chairs signing of hydro-agricultural development agreement in Ifrane
Ifrane (center), Feb. 4, 2009 (MAP)- King Mohammed VI on Wednesday chaired the signing ceremony of a $ 4.8 mln agreement relating to hydro-agricultural development and the construction of several water supply points in the province of Ifrane.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box1/king_chairs_signing1634/view
French company, Auvergne Aeronautics, opens second plant in Morocco
The French company, Auvergne Aeronautics, in partnership with Casablanca Aeronautics, will this year open another plant in Morocco to manufacture aircraft parts.
English
http://www.africanmanager.com/site_eng/detail_article.php?art_id=12759
03-February-2009
Fit for a king: Morocco's Royal Dar es Salam Golf Club
Morocco's capital city, Rabat, has just one golf club, though it's grand enough to host all of the city's players and plenty more visitors from Europe: Royal Dar es Salam Golf Club, complete with 45 holes of golf, including the heralded Red Course that stages the King Hassan II Trophy each fall.
English
http://www.worldgolf.com/course-reviews/africa/royal-dar-es-salam-golf-club-rabat-morocco-9625.htm
Morocco works to shield industries from financial crisis fallout
The Moroccan government announced its intention to help the industries hit by the global economic crisis. During a cabinet meeting held in Rabat on Thursday (January 29th), Economy and Finance Minister Salah Eddine Mezouar said that the crisis has been worse than expected and that the government will devise a strategy to assist the worst affected sectors, particularly the clothing and auto industries.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2009/02/03/feature-01
OFID provides US$118.8 million to boost development efforts
The OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID) granted Morocco an $8mln loan to co-finance the building of a dam in the northern province of Chefchaouen.
English
http://www.opecfund.org/news_press/2009/pr06_2009.aspx
02-February-2009
KFC comes back on the fast-food scene in Morocco
With only 2 locations in Morocco, the fast-food chain, Kentucky Fried Chicken, was a little slow to adapt its American favorites to Moroccan tastes. However, this year, the chain is redoubing its efforts and opening new location in Casablanca and Marrakesh.
French
Phosphates and derivatives driving Morocco's exports up
Phosphates and derivatives continue to drive Morocco's exports up, standing at MAD 51.4 bln ($5.9 bln) in 2008, that is 33.4% of the overall commodity exports which reached MAD 154 bln ($17.8 bln), according to Morocco's exchange rate monitoring body (the Office des Changes).
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box4/phosphates_and_deriv2909/view
30-January-2009
M'sian Firm Completes Phase One Of Housing Project In Morocco
A Malaysian company, Al-Hidayah Development Sarl, has successfully completed the construction of townhouses for sale in Tamesna City, a new township project outside the capital city, and is now going on to the second phase of the housing project, said Datuk Othman Samin, Malaysian Ambassador to Morocco.
English
http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v5/news_lite.php?id=386734
Morocco in $1.8 bln building deal with Arab group
The planned project would involve building a resort of healthcare and leisure facilities over 270 hectares in Essaouira, one of Morocco's main coastal tourism sites.
English
http://uk.reuters.com/article/rbssFinancialServicesAndRealEstateNews/idUKLU70991520090130
Morocco's aeronautics industry continues to grow
Zodiac Aerospace Maroc is investing 135 million dirhams towards a new aeronautical project in Aïn Johra, confirming Morocco's advances in attracting investors and promoting the aeronautical sector.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2009/01/30/feature-02
29-January-2009
Seminar addresses youth participation in politics and public affairs
A seminar held Saturday (January 24th) in Rabat by the Forum of Moroccan Youth for the Third Millennium examined ways to encourage young people's constructive and effective involvement in politics and local affairs.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2009/01/29/feature-02
European deputies applaud Morocco's achievements in democracy, human rights
Members of the European Parliament delegation, on a visit to Morocco, hailed the remarkable breakthroughs achieved by the kingdom in upholding democracy and human rights.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box2/european_deputies_ap/view
28-January-2009
Morocco expects record grain crop — farm leader
We are looking to harvest 100 million quintals (10 million tons) of cereals this season as the amount of rain that fell on Morocco was the highest in more than 20 years," said Ahmed Ouayach, chairman of the Moroccan Agriculture and Rural Development Confederation (COMADER).
English
http://www.bworldonline.com/BW012909/content.php?id=124
Morocco: Aeronautics in Morocco will generate 1 billion euros in 2012
The aeronautics sector in Morocco, which is made up of about 50 companies employing more than 2,000 workers, intends to triple its turnover to one billion euros by 2012.
English
27-January-2009
Moroccan King: Information Is New Economy's Productive Sector
Information should be perceived as a productive sector in the new knowledge and communications-based economy and not just another of the common place consumer goods, said King Mohammed VI of Morocco.
English
http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v5/newsindex.php?id=386172
Morocco's energy strategy combines availability, environment-friendliness
Morocco has founded its energy strategy on a four-fold vision that combines securing and providing energy with the respect of the environment and the enhancement of regional integration.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/last_economy/morocco_s_energy_str/view
22-January-2009
Morocco Telecom raked in 2.6 billion euros in 2008
Moroccan Communications giant, Maroc Telecom, a subsidiary of Vivendi International, earned a turnover of 2.6 billion euros in 2008, representing an increase of 7% from the earnings of 2007.
English
http://www.africanmanager.com/site_eng/detail_article.php?art_id=12699
17-January-2009
Moroccan king renews call to open Algerian-Moroccan border
In a message to the Arab leaders' economic summit in Kuwait, King Mohammed VI said that the "Maghreb Union has stumbled due to artificial obstacles, including such excessive measures as the prolonged, unreasonable, unilateral closure of the border between two neighbouring countries."
English
http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?id=30210&t=1&c=33&cg=4&mset=
Banque Centrale Populaire chooses Algorithmics integrated risk solutions for its enterprise-wide strategic risk management platform
Algorithmics has announced that, after an extensive selection process, involving a number of risk system vendors, Banque Centrale Populaire (BCP), one of the largest banks in North Africa, has selected Algorithmics’ software as the basis of its enterprise-wide risk management platform.
English
http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?id=30220&t=1&c=33&cg=4&mset=
Morocco sees 6.6 pct growth in Q1 on farm rebound
Morocco's economy is likely to grow by 6.6 percent in the first quarter as improved farm incomes offset the effect of the global economic slowdown on tourism and exports, the government said on Tuesday.
English
http://af.reuters.com/article/investingNews/idAFJOE50K03U20090121
16-January-2009
Tanger-Med industrial park to promote off-shoring in Morocco
Minister of Industry, Trade, and New Technologies, Ahmed Reda Chami, said the Tanger-Med industrial park will help "promote offshoring in Morocco".
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/tanger-med_industria/view
15-January-2009
Morocco emerges on the property forums as one of the best places to consider in 2009
The advantage that Morocco has over other emerging real estate markets is that is it close to Europe. Some of the seaside resorts are predicted to be extremely popular, especially those with marinas and cities are growing in popularity as short break destinations and therefore year round rental yields.
English
http://www.propertywire.com/news/property-forum-watch/morocco-best-places-2009-200901152368.html
14-January-2009
Moroccan Car Sales Up
Auto sales in Morocco jumped 17% in 2008 over the previous year, even as the economic downturn sent sales slumping almost everywhere else, the auto importers association announced on Jan. 13.
English
http://www.industryweek.com/ReadArticle.aspx?ArticleID=18235&SectionID=3
13-January-2009
Jorf Phosphate Hub: OCP eyes world leadership
Morocco's state-run, Office chérifien des phosphates (OCP), has devised a major investment program to turn Jorf Lasfar site into a major hub of phosphate fertilizer production and marketing, said executive vice-president of OCP sales division, Mhamed Ibnabdeljalil.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/jorf_phosphate_hub_1/view
13-January-2009
EU donates millions for Moroccan energy sector reform
The EU donated 76.6m euros to Morocco on Monday (January 12th) to help the country diversify energy sources, develop renewable energies, and improve energy monitoring and efficiency.
English
12-January-2009
SIAMA to build $85m polo resort in Morocco
Construction will begin this year on a US$85 million (Dh312.2m) polo resort and hotel in Morocco developed by Saudi-based SIAMA, a subsidiary of Azmi Abdelhadi Group in Marrakech.
English
http://www.thenational.ae/article/20090112/BUSINESS/982797431/-1/ART
12-January-2009
Morocco's BCP bank buys stake in OCP for $600 mln
Banques Populaires Group (BCP.CS), Morocco's biggest banking group, is to pay 5 billion dirhams ($600 million) for a 5.88 percent stake in the Office Cherifien de Phosphate (OCP), the world's leading phosphate exporter.
English
http://uk.reuters.com/article/rbssFinancialServicesAndRealEstateNews/idUKLC30817120090112
12-January-2009
Wall Street Institute Expands Global Footprint with Opening of First Center in Africa
Wall Street Institute, the world's premier provider of English language instruction, announced today the grand opening of its first learning center on the African continent. The center is located in Casablanca, Morocco.
English
http://www.istockanalyst.com/article/viewiStockNews/articleid/2945892
8-January-2009
Morocco to create 137 jobs for unemployed blind and visually impaired
The government devoted 137 jobs for unemployed blind and visually impaired people, announced Minister of Social Development, Family and Solidarity, Nouzha Skalli, on Thursday.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/social/morocco_to_create_13/view
8-January-2009
Construction begins on Tangier port industrial parks
King Mohammed VI launched construction on Wednesday (January 7th) for new business parks near Morocco's Tanger-Med port complex, local and international press reported.
English
7-January-2009
Morocco among the top ten countries in offshoring sector
Offshoring is relatively new to the Moroccan economy, but it is already boosting the job market. Experts expect to see gains over the next 10 years.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2009/01/07/feature-03
7-January-2009
Morocco unveils plan for business park chains
Morocco on Wednesday launched a network of business parks in its underdeveloped north to lure hundreds of companies and create much needed jobs, officials said.
English
http://www.forbes.com/afxnewslimited/feeds/afx/2009/01/07/afx5890755.html
6-January-2009
Princess Lalla Hasna chairs signing ceremony of eco-epidemiology and green enterprises agreements
Princess Lalla Hasna, chairwoman of the Mohammed VI Foundation for Environmental Protection, chaired, here Sunday, the signing ceremony of two agreements to launch an eco-epidemiological study in Casablanca and setting up "green enterprises" program.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/social/princess_lalla_hasna3848/view
5-January-2009
Morocco to benefit from 'family-friendly' holidays
The Moroccan tourism industry is set to receive a boost with the launch of a new service aimed at families with small children. According to the Guardian, the niche market of "toddler tourism" will continue to grow this year as more operators look to cater for family groups containing children under five.
English
5-January-2009
Cleaner diesel available to Moroccans
A new type of diesel with a sulphur content of no more than 50 parts-per-million was released on the Moroccan market on Thursday (January 1st). According to the Ministry of Energy, 50 ppm diesel will be phased in gradually and will be widely available in April 2009. The cleaner fuel is replacing 350 diesel and will gradually replace standard diesel, as new facilities are able to accommodate the new type.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2009/01/05/feature-01
29-December-2008
Morocco's real estate sector could escape global crisis
Moroccan officials have announced that their country has been spared the effects of the global real estate crisis, according to Ahmed Taoufik Hjira, the minister of housing, urban planning and land management.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2008/12/26/feature-01
29-December-2008
Morocco says Tourism Strong Despite Global Downturn
Morocco's tourism industry "is in good health" despite the global economic crisis, with tourist arrivals expected to reach a record 7.9 million this year, a government minister said on Tuesday.
English
http://aawsat.com/english/news.asp?section=6&id=15169
19-December-2008
A Fabled City of the Dissolute Gets a New Shine
DUSK was falling on Tangier and small cliques of nattily dressed expats were sipping mint tea and socializing on the top floor of the Hôtel Nord-Pinus, a sumptuous riad-style guesthouse in the Casbah. A gentle sea breeze wafted through the arched doorways and filled the stylish lounge, decorated with embroidered Moroccan pillows and modern photography, with an air of exclusivity.
English
http://travel.nytimes.com/2008/12/21/travel/21next.html?ref=travel
18-December-2008
Low cost property projects set to help developers in Morocco
The country's leading real estate developer, Addoha, has acquired two Moroccan units from failed Spanish developer Fadesa and is completing projects on time. It is also moving into affordable housing, a change that is regarded as being the best way forward in the current economic climate as sales of luxury property decline.
English
17-December-2008
Egypt/Morocco: Financial aid for poor youth
A $5 million five-year program that will create inclusive financial services and education for youth between the ages of 15 and 24 in Morocco and Egypt have been announced by the MasterCard Foundation and Mennonite Economic Development Associates (MEDA), a Canadian Christian organization.
English
http://www.africanews.com/site/list_messages/22215
17-December-2008
Morocco property firm Addoha says sales on track
Moroccan real estate developer Addoha's sales are in line with expectations and the north African kingdom is able to absorb the impact of recession in the world's major economies, its chairman said.
English
http://www.forbes.com/afxnewslimited/feeds/afx/2008/12/17/afx5831457.html
17-December-2008
Canamens to explore offshore Morocco
Canamens has signed a suite of agreements, including an association contract, a petroleum agreement, a reconnaissance contract, along with associated permits, and a license with Morocco's Office National Hydrocarbures et des Mines (ONHYM).
English
17-December-2008
Tele Atlas and CADTECH Deliver First Navigable Digital Maps of Morocco
Tele Atlas, a leading global provider of digital maps and dynamic content for navigation and location based solutions (LBS), and CADTECH, a Moroccan company specializing in geographical information systems and geolocalization applications, announced the availability of the first fully navigable digital databases of Morocco for personal navigation, wireless, Internet, automotive and enterprise navigation solutions companies worldwide.
English
http://www.directionsmag.com/press.releases/index.php?duty=Show&id=27219&trv=1
16-December-2008
Historic Morocco: A budding golf destination
Morocco is a dynamic country on the north coast of Africa full of diversity and rich history, not to mention warm sunshine and even a little golf.
English
http://www.worldgolf.com/golf-destinations/morocco-golf-destination-courses-9349.htm
16-December-2008
Morocco's banking group AWB buys into Gabon's UGB
Maghreb's leading banking and financial group, Attija riwafa Bank (AWB), will in 2006 hold 59% of the share capital of the Union Gabon a ise de Banques (UGB) which recently acquired Crédit Agricole (CA).
English
http://www.africanmanager.com/site_eng/detail_article.php?art_id=12465
16-December-2008
Egypt and Morocco enter offshoring nations' list
Egypt and Morocco are among the new entrants in the top 30 countries for offshoring services, according to industry tracker Gartner.
English
http://www.business24-7.ae/articles/2008/12/pages/12162008_857883aa107340619bf1d642341b8343.aspx
11-December-2008
Hotel review: Palmeraie Golf Palace Marrakech, Morocco
The five-star Palmeraie Golf Palace is a well-established 312-room hotel just outside the city, about 30 minutes from the airport. It offers space and tranquility rather than the buzz of central Marrakech, which is a 15-minute taxi ride away.
English
11-December-2008
Morocco popular with second home buyers
The Times recently included Marrakesh in its list of up-and-coming cities for property purchases, claiming that the availability of cheap flights and the government's recent tourism drive is creating many opportunities for investment in the city.
English
11-December-2008
Eyelit's MES chosen for Nemotek's Moroccan wafer fab
Eyelit, Inc., a manufacturing software provider for visibility, control, and coordination of manufacturing operations for the aerospace & defense, discrete electronics, semiconductor, and photovoltaic (solar) industries, announced today that Nemotek Technologie, a company that offers manufacturing and design services of wafer-level cameras, wafer-level Packaging and Wafer-Level Optics for many applications, selected Eyelit's manufacturing software suite to support production in its new wafer fab, located in Rabat, Morocco.
English
10-December-2008
Golf in Morocco creates investment opportunity
With the popularity of golf on the rise in Morocco, now might be the time for enthusiasts to invest in property in the country.
English
10-December-2008
Morocco sets up carbon trading fund
Morocco's state-run pension fund Caisee de Depot et de Gestion (CDG) has set up a carbon trading fund with capital of MD300m ($35m). CDG will hold 50 per cent of the capital of Fonds Capital Carbone Maroc (FCCM). The European Investment Bank will hold a 25 per stake.
English
http://www.yourrenewablenews.com/morocco+sets+up+carbon+trading+fund_18030.html
10-December-2008
European FMs praise the adoption of advanced status for Morocco
Foreign ministers of the European Union (EU), praised, here Monday, the adoption of the advanced status for Morocco during the EU-Morocco Association Council, held in Luxembourg on 13 October.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/regional/european_fms_praise/view
9-December-2008
Morocco prepared for tourism boom despite global economic slowdown
Morocco's tourism minister is confident that the global economic turmoil will not impact negatively on perceptions of the north African country as a viable holiday location.
English
9-December-2008
IFC to hold seminar on 'commercial mediation' in Marrakech
International Finance Corporation (IFC), an offshoot of the World Bank (WB) will hold, on December 16 in the central city of Marrakech, an international confab on "commercial mediation in developing countries".
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/general/ifc_to_hold_seminar/view
8-December-2008
Businessmen in Maghreb to meet more often, boost integration process
Representatives of businessmen's and trade associations in Arab Maghreb Union countries decided recently to meet every three months to discuss co-ordination and consultation on Maghreb economic integration and the Maghreb market.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2008/12/08/feature-01
8-December-2008
Morocco invests more than 56 million euros in oil prospecting
The Moroccan government has invested more than 56 million euros in oil prospecting this year through contracts signed with several foreign companies, the Ministry of Energy and Mines said on Friday.
English
http://www.africanmanager.com/site_eng/detail_article.php?art_id=12429
8-December-2008
EIB loans Morocco 230 million euros
The European Investment Bank (EIB) has loaned Morocco 230 million euros earmarked for the electricity and feeder road sectors, official sources in Rabat said on Friday.
English
http://www.africanmanager.com/site_eng/detail_article.php?art_id=12430
4-December-2008
Govt. tightens watch on tourist guide centers
The Moroccan government will be monitoring the creation of tourist guide training centers so that they respond to the needs being documented in the field, Tourism Minister, Mohamed Boussaid, said on Wednesday.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/govt._tightens_watch/view
3-December-2008
Fez, Morocco Real Estate: An Ancient City Gets Attention
Many people have never heard of Fez, Morocco's fourth largest city after Casablanca, Rabat, and Marrakesh. The medieval town attracts discerning travelers who come looking for a cultural experience found nowhere else.
English
3-December-2008
Gas discovery in Morocco
CIRCLE OIL PLC confirms a discovery in the Lower Guebbas Formation (Rabat) with the well testing gas at a sustained rate of 8.86MMscfd. The well has been completed as a potential producer.
English
http://www.euro-petrole.com/ne_03_actualite_i_details.php?idNews=2957
2-December-2008
Alcatel-Lucent, Moroccan Education Ministry launch ICT collaboration
The Moroccan Education Ministry and Alcatel-Lucent France inked a partnership agreement for an educational program entitled "Dynamic Knowledge for Education".
English
2-December-2008
Advanced status: recognition by the EU of Morocco's political, economic reforms, EU official
The advanced Status granted recently to Morocco represents a recognition by the European Union of the bulk of political and economic reforms initiated by the kingdom, said on Monday ambassador and head of the European Commission delegation in Morocco, Bruno Dethomas.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/regional/advanced_status__rec/view
1-December-2008
Dakhla in Morocco: Excitements and Nature
Dakhla is a superb white city, approximately 300 km from the famous border wall which separates Morocco and Mauritania, a quiet and serene site which is eying tourism development and expansion.
English
1-December-2008
Despite setbacks, Morocco making headway towards millennium goals
In a recent government report, Morocco is shown to have made considerable progress towards the UN Millennium Development Goals, although there is still work to be done.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2008/12/01/feature-01
24-November-2008
ADIH launches Morocco project
Abu Dhabi Investment House (ADIH) yesterday launched its $400,000 Porta Moda Marrakech project in Morocco.
English
http://www.gulf-daily-news.com/Story.asp?Article=235459&Sn=BUSI&IssueID=31248
24-November-2008
Morocco issues the millionth biometric contactless national identity card with Thales's e-ID secure solution
Just seven months after the production of the first document, the Kingdom of Morocco's national security service has already issued its millionth biometric contactless ID cards.
English
http://www.morerfid.com/details.php?subdetail=Report&action=details&report_id=5225&display=RFID
24-November-2008
Morocco’s Central Depository deploys TCS BaNCS
TCS Financial Solutions has announced that Maroclear, the Central Depository of Morocco, has selected TCS BαNCS Market Infrastructure to modernize its legacy systems, automate processing and enhance employee productivity.
English
http://www.varindia.com/searchdetails_title.aspx?id=1aefff328342491faae7e1aaacd20cd8
21-November-2008
Property market in Morocco tipped to thrive despite global economic downturn
According to Ahmad Al-Ameer, vice-chairman and CEO of Kuwaiti Gulf Holding Company (GHC), Morocco has managed to remain insulated from the global economic turmoil and may therefore be more conducive than other countries to property growth.
English
21-November-2008
Belgium grants Morocco $6.3m to boost job training
Belgium granted Morocco $6.3m to improve vocational training in the north of the country, promote rural micro-enterprises and create new jobs in Tétouan.
English
20-November-2008
Russian firm eyes mega-tourism project in southern Morocco
‘Kudla group’, one of the most important Russian tourism developers, is among the groups interested in a US$ 400 million mega-project in Dakhla, in southern Morocco.
English
http://www.apanews.net/apa.php?page=show_article_eng&id_article=81054
20-November-2008
AfDB lends Morocco US$97m
The African Development Bank (AfDB) has granted Morocco a US$97-million loan to fund a safe drinking water supply and sanitation project in various regions across the country.
English
http://www.afriquenligne.fr/news/africa-news/afdb-lends-morocco-us$97m-2008112016420.html
20-November-2008
Moroccans to modernise civil registry
Morocco is integrating more technology in the day-to-day life of its citizens, starting with computerised civil records across the country. It is a long and complicated process, but it’s on track.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2008/11/20/feature-02
20-November-2008
"Galeries Lafayette" injects US$17m in Morocco
The famous French sign "Galeries Lafayette" has decided to relocate in Morocco for an investment of 130 million dirhams (US$17 million) aimed at opening a store in Casablanca.
English
http://www.apanews.net/apa.php?page=show_article_eng&id_article=81060
19-November-2008
The Moroccan government has earmarked $95m for tourism development in 2009, Tourism and Handicraft Minister, Mohammed Boussaid said on Monday
The Moroccan government has earmarked $95m for tourism development in 2009, Tourism and Handicraft Minister, Mohammed Boussaid said on Monday.
English
19-November-2008
Real estate project worth $1.3bn unveiled in Tangiers
GHC's project spreads over 1.13 million square meters in the prestigious Gulf Finance House (GFH) promoted Royal Resort Cap Malabata Project.
English
http://www.menafn.com/qn_news_story_s.asp?StoryId=1093221218
18-November-2008
Morocco to inject 28.9 bln dirhams to boost purchasing power
The Moroccan government will inject 28.9 billion dirhams (3.3 billion U.S. dollars) under the 2009 financial act to boost the purchasing power of the country's population.
English
http://english.people.com.cn/90001/90778/90858/90866/6534263.html
18-November-2008
Moroccan-US meeting on cooperation in nuclear energy field
Moroccan Secretary General of the Foreign Affairs Ministry, Youssef Amrani, held talks, on Monday, with Special Envoy of the US Secretary of State for Nuclear Nonproliferation, Jackie Wolcott.
English
http://www.isria.info/RESTRICTED/D/2008/NOVEMBER_20/diplo_18november2008_52.htm
14-November-2008
Morocco to spend $31m for reforestation in 2008-2009
Morocco has allotted $31m for its 2008-2009 reforestation campaign.
English
14-November-2008
France agrees 625 mln eur loan to fund Morocco TGV
Alstom and French rail operator SNCF moved a step closer to contracts for a high-speed train link between Tangiers and Casablanca, after France agreed on a loan to Morocco to help finance the project.
English
http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/feedarticle/8021746
13-November-2008
Moroccan public broadcasting company acquires stake in euronews
Morocco’s public broadcasting company SNRT (Société Nationale de Radiodiffusion et Télévision) has acquired a 0.33 per cent stake in European news channel euronews’ holding company, SECEMIE (Société Editrice de la Chaîne Européenne Multilingue d’Information euronews), to join the 22 existing shareholders from Europe.
English
http://www.indiantelevision.com/headlines/y2k8/nov/nov147.php
12-November-2008
Over a million passengers transited on Moroccan airports in September
Some 1,020,257 passengers have transited from Moroccan airports during the month of September 2008, the Moroccan office of airports (ONDA) has said.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/over_a_million_passe/view
11-November-2008
Morocco: larger citrus production
The citrus culture in Morocco promises to be good this year. The rain, which fell during the last few months had a positive effect on the total production and the sizes.
English
http://www.freshplaza.com/news_detail.asp?id=32839
11-November-2008
First Gas Discovery in Morocco
UK-based independent hydrocarbons exploration firm Circle Oil Plc confirms that it has found natural gas in the north-east of the Moroccan capital Rabat.
English
http://www.north-africa.com/opensource/story1-Nov1108.htm
11-November-2008
Morocco's Third 2G License Highlights Opportunities in the Mid-East and Nth Africa
A third 2G license in Morocco - expected to be issued in the coming months, following the commencement of the bidding process in October - is among the many opportunities still available in the region, says report author and analyst at Analysys Mason, Daniel Jones.
English
http://www.cellular-news.com/story/34583.php
10-November-2008
Moroccan expats return as economy grows
Employment ministers from 43 European and Mediterranean countries are meeting this week in Marrakech to talk about boosting jobs across a region increasingly tied together by the forces of globalization.
English
http://www.thenational.ae/article/20081109/FOREIGN/529946388/1011/ART
10-November-2008
"Morocco has developed into trendy economic, tourist destination," Forbes
Morocco has turned into a trendy economic and tourist destination, said Forbes Magazine, noting that Morocco's program of economic, political and social liberalization has had a "remarkable effect."
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box2/morocco_has_develope/view
10-November-2008
Moroccan City Hailed As 'Beautiful' Destination
"Morocco has been associated with trading and history for a long time but it is popular for walking activities and fishing and it is something that remains popular within Rabat to this day," said Peter Sheard, a senior associate at Gensler.
English
http://news.holidayhypermarket.co.uk/Moroccan-City-Hailed-As-Beautiful-Destination-18866347.html
10-November-2008
Circle Oil Provides Update on Gas Discovery in Morocco
Circle Oil Plc, the AIM listed international oil and gas exploration and development company, is pleased to announce that the exploration well ONZ6 has been drilled, logged and successfully tested in the Ouled N’Zala Permit, Morocco.
English
http://www.oilvoice.com/n/Circle_Oil_Provides_Update_on_Gas_Discovery_in_Morocco/fcb1df2c.aspx
7-November-2008
Construction to begin next year on Casablanca tram project
The Moroccan government approved a 28-km tram system as part of a Casablanca development plan. Officials said this is only the start, with more public transportation developments planned for the future.
French
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2008/11/07/feature-02
6-November-2008
Maroc Telecom reports nine-month growth
Maroc TelecomMaroc Telecom, the Moroccan telecoms operator majority-owned by France's Vivendi Universal, announced Wednesday a 9.6 percent increase in profits for the nine months to September 30.
English
6-November-2008
Land of opportunity. The Moroccan economic boom
Since the succession of Mohammed VI to the throne, Morocco has been transformed from what had been previously perceived as a rigid monarchy, to a progressive west-facing land of opportunities and fiscal reforms, designed to stimulate foreign investment and development.
English
http://www.euroweeklynews.com/news/12281.html
6-November-2008
Morocco announces multi-billion dollar renewables plan
The five year initiative, reported as being worth US$2.9 billion to US$3.2 billion, aims to spur rapid development of renewable energy in the country. Two smaller programmes, Energie Pro and Chourouk focused on wind and solar energy respectively, make up the initiative.
English
6-November-2008
Third wireless phone license for Morocco
Morocco's National Telecommunications Regulatory Agency is to launch a third wireless phone network license. Its part of the country's telecom liberalization in order to boost competition and bring down prices, the country's cellular sector has been booming since the end of Maroc Telecom's monopoly in 1999.
English
http://www.africanews.com/site/list_messages/21428
4-November-2008
Opennet invites reseller partners to Middle East & North Africa leg of Red Hat Virtualisation tour
Opennet Middle East & Africa, the Master Distributor and authorized Certified Training Centre of Red Hat Linux products for GCC, Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt, Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia, announced the Middle East and North Africa leg of Red Hat's Virtualization tour.
English
4-November-2008
Air Arabia Maroc" to begin operations in early 2009
Air Arabia, the first and largest low-cost carrier (LCC) in the Middle East and North Africa, announced today that it will commence operations from its second hub in Morocco in early 2009, subject to government approvals.
English
http://www.indiaprwire.com/pressrelease/aviation/2008110415000.htm
3 November 2008
Conference to Focus on Urban Planning in Fez, Morocco
An international conference focusing on contemporary urban planning and preservation issues in the historic city of Fez, Morocco, will begin at UC Riverside on Friday, Nov. 14, and conclude at UCLA on Saturday, Nov. 15.
English
http://newsroom.ucr.edu/cgi-bin/display.cgi?id=1963
3 November 2008
A tale of two cities becoming one
Eight centuries ago, a Moroccan king raised a tower on the banks of the river Bouregreg, commencing a grandiose project that is finally on the point of completion.
English
http://www.thenational.ae/article/20081102/FOREIGN/947238937/1011/NEW
31-October-2008
King chairs signing ceremony of program-contract on financing 'Green Morocco Plan'
King Mohammed VI chaired, Friday in the rural commune of Bni Hlal (province of El Jadida), the signing ceremony of a program contract on financing the "Green Morocco Plan" for the period 2009-2013.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/royal_activities/king_chairs_signing_10/view
31-October-2008
Morocco's PCP bank to buy 50.1 pct of Upline
Morocco's Banques Populaires Group, one of Morocco's biggest banking groups, said on Friday it will buy a 50.1 percent stake in Upline Group, the country's second largest independent investment bank.
English
http://africa.reuters.com/business/news/usnJOE49U0L5.html
30-October-2008
OIC environment ministers attend conference in Morocco
The third conference of environment ministers of the Organisation of the Islamic Conference (OIC) opened on Wednesday in the Moroccan capital, Rabat to discuss several projects and reports on the environment in the Muslim world.
English
http://www.apanews.net/apa.php?page=show_article_eng&id_article=79094
30-October-2008
Morocco invests US$3.2 billion in renewable energy
Morocco has announced plans for a new campus providing knowledge-based services to strengthen research and training in clean technology.
English
30-October-2008
Morocco to offer third mobile phone licence
Morocco plans to sell a third wireless phone network licence to boost competition and bring down prices, the country's telecom regulator said on Thursday.
English
http://africa.reuters.com/business/news/usnJOE49T0IC.html
29-October-2008
Foreign investors show interest in Bouregreg Valley development project
Several foreign investors have expressed will to contribute to the projects underway to upgrade the Valley of Bouregreg, said on Tuesday, General Director of the Agency to develop the Bouregreg Valley (AAVB), Lamghari Essakl.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/foreign_investors_sh/view
28-October-2008
Morocco signs declaration to fight counterfeiting
Morocco was among nine Mediterranean countries that signed, Monday in Cannes (South Eastern France) a declaration aiming to reinforce the fight against counterfeiting.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/morocco_signs_declar/view
27-October-2008
Morocco tipped as future hotspot
Morocco could become a property hotspot as a result of its growth in popularity as a tourist destination.
English
http://www.propertyshowrooms.com/morocco/property/news/morocco-tipped-future-hotspot_67448.html
27-October-2008
Morocco creates new fund to promote technological innovation
Morocco has set up the first fund in the country to support innovation in information technology, with an initial budget of 100 million dirhams. The fund is part of a plan to create more than 30,000 new direct job opportunities in ICT industries.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2008/10/26/feature-01
24-October-2008
Morocco to spur investments in 2009
Morocco plans to increase investments next year to 135 billion dirhams, Finance Minister Salaheddine Mezouar said on Thursday (October 23rd).
English
24-October-2008
IFC Organizes Workshop on Corporate Governance for Microfinance Institutions in the Maghreb Region
IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, is today holding a one-day workshop to provide comprehensive corporate governance training to microfinance institutions in the Maghreb region. The workshop, being held in Rabat, is designed to help microfinance institutions improve corporate governance practices to strengthen their operational and financial performance and enable them to increase access to microfinance in the region.
English
http://media-newswire.com/release_1076843.html
23-October-2008
Morocco elected to UN economic council
Morocco was elected on Wednesday (October 22nd) to the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).
French
23-October-2008
Morocco achieved remarkable progress in corporate governance practices
Moroccan Minister in charge of Economic and General Affairs, Nizar Baraka, said, on Wednesday, that Morocco has achieved remarkable progress in the field of corporate governance practices and is the first country in the Maghreb region to have a Corporate Governance Code.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/morocco_achieved_rem/view
22-October-2008
Morocco's Wana telecoms' 1st half revenue soars
Wana, the telecommunications arm of Morocco's biggest conglomerate, ONA ONA.CS, saw its revenue jumping almost three times in the first half of the year amid efforts to turnaround the ailing venture, its chief executive officer said on Tuesday.
English
http://www.reuters.com/article/rbssFinancialServicesAndRealEstateNews/idUSLL59001120081021
22-October-2008
Casablanca Market Adds Spice to Corporate and Private Event Planning
Since 2004, Casablanca Market in Silicon Valley, Calif., has been offering Moroccan imports and gifts. As she talked to clients, the company founder Katia Essyad noticed that there is a demand for the "hidden nostalgia of Arabian theme events that reflect exotic beauty, mystery and intrigue." Consequently, she expanded Casablanca's services to include event planning.
English
22-October-2008
Morocco's BMCE bank to buy back up to 15 million shares
Moroccan bank BMCE said on Wednesday it is planning to buy back up to 15 million of its own shares in a bid to shore up its faltering stock price.
English
http://africa.reuters.com/business/news/usnJOE49L0O5.html
21-October-2008
Moroccan tourism sector seeks to counter effect of global financial crisis
A new Moroccan task force will work to mitigate the impact of the global financial and economic downturn on the country's tourism sector, Tourism Minister Mohamed Boussaïd announced on Monday.
English
21-October-2008
Gender responsive budgeting, 'efficient tool' for public administration reform
Gender Responsive Budgeting (GRB) can be "an efficient tool" for reforming the Public administration, head of the World Bank office in Morocco said on Tuesday. In an address at the opening ceremony of a workshop on "Building Capacities", Françoise Clottes noted that the GRB favors "a more efficient, effective and participative" budget management.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/last_social/gender_responsive_bu6921/view
20-October-2008
Addoha buys Fadesa's Moroccan units
Moroccan property developer Addoha ADH.CS took control of Spanish construction firm Fadesa's FAD.MC two Moroccan arms after buying additional 50 percent stakes in the two units, Addoha said on Monday.
English
http://www.reuters.com/article/rbssFinancialServicesAndRealEstateNews/idUSLK29871820081020
20-October-2008
Giving birth to Gazelles in Morocco
The Moroccan small companies, contrary to the generally accepted ideas, are not so underprivileged in the access to the credit; only 15% of them are denied. Morocco is very well placed compared to the comparable countries of the Mediterranean basin like Egypt, Turkey or Tunisia.
English
17-October-2008
Morocco September inflation eases to 3.9 percent yr
Moroccan consumer price inflation eased to 3.9 percent year-on-year in September from 4.8 percent in August and 5.1 percent in July, official figures showed on Friday.
English
http://africa.reuters.com/business/news/usnJOE49G0KR.html
17-October-2008
Morocco: Means to bolster Moroccan-Australian Trade Exchanges Discussed in Rabat
Means to bolster Moroccan-Australian trade exchanges were at the center of talks held on Wednesday between Moroccan Foreign Trade Minister, Abdellatif Maazouzi, and visiting Australian High Commissioner for Trade in charge of North Africa, Duncan Cole.
English
http://www.isria.info/RESTRICTED/D/2008/OCTOBER_23/diplo_18october2008_17.htm
17-October-2008
New contract obtained by Gamesa in Morocco
Gamesa Corporación Tecnológica has entered into a new agreement with the cement manufacturer Lafarge Ciments, a subsidiary of the French company Lafarge, for the supply of six Gamesa G80-2.0MW wind turbines
English
http://www.windtech-international.com/content/view/2029/1/
17-October-2008
Morocco Infrastructure Report 2008
In BMI’s Morocco 2008 Infrastructure Report, we forecast that the construction sector – and by extension infrastructure sector – will register annual real growth of 5.42%.
English
17-October-2008
Optimistic outlook for telecom in North Africa
The financial crisis is spreading skepticism across the world, yet spirits and attendance were high at the North Africa Com Conference, the largest conference on telecommunication in the region, held Oct. 14-15 in Cairo.
English
http://www.itnewsafrica.com/?p=1479
16-October-2008
Morocco hosts Euromed summit on economic, social cooperation
The European Union and Mediterranean states (Euromed) on Wednesday opened a two-day summit of Economic and Social Councils and similar institutions in Morocco.
English
http://www.apanews.net/apa.php?page=show_article_eng&id_article=77941
16-October-2008
King inaugurates 1st stage of Casablanca offshoring zone
King Mohammed VI inaugurated, here Thursday, the first stage of the offshoring zone project dubbed "Casanearshore," at a global cost of $ 4 bln.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box1/king_inaugurates_1st/view
16-October-2008
Morocco confident amid financial crisis
Morocco wants to capitalize on the international financial meltdown by luring European companies and tourists to its cheaper shores, the country's central bank chief said Thursday.
English
http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2008/10/16/business/AF-Morocco-Weathering-The-Crisis.php
15-October-2008
Morocco's OCP plans $1.9 bln chemical purchases
Morocco's Office Cherifien de Phosphate (OCP), the world's leading phosphate exporter, said on Wednesday it plans to spend 16 billion Moroccan Dirhams on chemicals as part of five-year, 22 billion dirhams development scheme.
English
http://www.moneybiz.co.za/business_in_africa/Morocco's_OCP_plans_$1_9_bln_chemical_purchases.asp
15-October-2008
Morocco to privatise Royal Air Maroc
Morocco plans to privatise flag carrier Royal Air Maroc and two subsidiaries, according to a government document listing eight state companies slated for sale to private investors.
English
http://www.reuters.com/article/rbssTechMediaTelecomNews/idUSLF21094720081015
15-October-2008
Golden Tulip Launches its New Brand in Morocco
Golden Tulip Hospitality Group signs management contract with Property Logic for upcoming Tulip Residence in Saïdia (Morocco) and is proud to announce the signing of the management contract for its second Tulip Residence worldwide.
English
http://www.ftnnews.com/content/view/3602/26/lang,english/
14-October-2008
Moroccan tourism sector seeks to counter effect of global financial crisis
A new Moroccan task force will work to mitigate the impact of the global financial and economic downturn on the country's tourism sector, Tourism Minister Mohamed Boussaïd announced on Monday (October 13th).
English
14-October-2008
EU, Morocco eye farm trade deal
The European Union (EU) hopes to reach a deal with Morocco on the liberalization of agricultural trade this year and on services next year, the bloc said in a statement.
English
http://www.tradearabia.com/news/newsdetails.asp?Sn=&artid=150793
14-October-2008
WB Vice-President commends good performance of Moroccan economy
Vice President of the World Bank in charge of MENA region, Daniela Gressan, commended the good performances and resilience of Moroccan economy face to exogenous shocks, notably the financial crisis ravaging world economy.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box3/wb_vice-president_co/view
10-October-2008
EU foreign ministers to offer special status to Morocco
European Union foreign ministers will on Monday offer an "advanced status" to Morocco, which has for years been seeking deeper relations with the bloc, sources in Brussels said Friday.
English
http://www.eubusiness.com/news-eu/1223668021.78
10-October-2008
G.A.P Adventures Announces New Trips to Morocco
G.A.P Adventures, the world’s leading adventure travel company, is inviting travellers to experience the wonders of Morocco with 10 brand new trips for 2009.
English
http://www.pr.com/press-release/110049
10-October-2008
Moroccan solar partnership to expand business interest to N/Africa
Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide, Inc. (NASDAQ:QTWW) has today announced that its German solar photovoltaic partner, Asola, has signed an exclusive pact to establish a joint venture in Morocco, to supply solar modules in support of growing demand for renewable energy in northern African countries.
English
http://www.afrol.com/articles/31177
8-October-2008
Rapid economic growth in Morocco due to structural reforms
King Mohammed VI underlined that the rapid and steady economic growth that Morocco has enjoyed, since the start of this century, results from the structural reforms and the sound economic policies the kingdom has laid down and implemented.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box1/rapid_economic_growt/view
6-October-2008
BMCE netted over USD 99.2 in first half of 2008
The Banque Marocaine du Commerce Exterieur (BMCE) achieved $ 99.2 mln net profits during the first quarter of 2008, that is a 90.4% increase compared with the same period of 2007 ($ 52 mln), the Bank's CEO announced on Monday.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box5/bmce_netted_over_usd/view
6-October-2008
Moroccan tech market enjoying 3G internet boom
Growth in information and communications technology (ICT) in Morocco has been dominated by a boom in 3G Internet and the sustained growth of mobile telephone subscriptions, with a current market of more than 21.5 million customers. The number of fixed-line telephone customers has also grown, recently surpassing 2.7 million.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2008/10/06/feature-01
6-October-2008
Thrifty Morocco Expands Fleet Catering to Increase Demand for Car Rentals
Thrifty Morocco Car Rental today announced plans for expanding its fleet to cater to inbound business and leisure travelers, as well as to local population in Morocco's fastest-growing cities.
English
3-October-2008
Morocco economy thrives amid global crisis
The financial crisis across the world does not appear to be inhibiting growth in the Moroccan economy. According to the Financial Times, plentiful rain has ensured that lucrative sectors such as agriculture have performed strongly this year.
English
3-October-2008
Sweden & Morocco. Rezidor announces the Radisson Resort & Spa, Tangier
The Rezidor Hotel Group announces the Radisson Resort & Spa, Tangier in Morocco – the property with 155 rooms is scheduled to open in Q4 2010. It is Rezidor’s second resort in the country: in June this year the company signed the Radisson Resort & Spa, Saïdia (384 rooms and 97 villas; to open in Q3 2010).
English
http://www.bymnews.com/news/newsDetails.php?id=43611
2-October-2008
Morocco retunes to new engines of growth
The only nation in the Maghreb without oil or gas and one beset by income disparities, housing shortages and an inefficient education system, Morocco nonetheless appears to have managed to maintain economic stability in the face of global inflation. The government strategy is to shift the economy away from agriculture to create jobs and find new engines of growth.
English
http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/9da74cd0-901a-11dd-9890-0000779fd18c.html
1-October-2008
Best beaches: Mirhleft, Morocco
For paragliding, surfing and solitude, Mirhleft - a handful of small Moroccan beaches - is hard to beat.
English
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/bestbeaches/3115591/Mirhleft-Morocco-Best-beaches.html
30-September-2008
Morocco property co Addoha's H1 profit up 40 pct
Net profit grew to 319.3 million dirhams while operating profit doubled to 483.9 million dirhams on a 78 percent rise in turnover to 1.301 billion dirhams, the Casablanca-based company said in a statement.
English
http://africa.reuters.com/business/news/usnJOE48T0KC.html
30-September-2008
Moroccan bank BMCE says H1 net profit up 24 pct
Moroccan bank BMCE reported a 24 percent increase in first-half net earnings on Tuesday as deposit and loan growth boosted domestic market share and foreign expansion brought new sources of profit.
English
http://africa.reuters.com/business/news/usnJOE48T0NP.html
29-September-2008
Morocco set to consolidate South-South partnership
"Morocco will continue to work, within competent multilateral and international organizations, to further consolidate South-South cooperation and promote all strategies aimed to implement the internationally agreed commitments, particularly on development and economic and technical cooperation," Morocco's Foreign Minister Fassi Fihri said at a ministerial meeting of the Group of 77 and China.
English
http://www.isria.info/RESTRICTED/D/2008/OCTOBER_3/diplo_29september2008_7.htm
29-September-2008
Morocco remains leading DOI destination in Maghreb
Morocco remains the first destination of the direct over seas investments (DOI) in the Maghreb region, attracting investments worth more than US$ 13.6 billion between 2001 and 2007.
English
http://www.afriquenligne.fr/morocco-remains-leading-doi-destination-in-maghreb-2008092813003.html
29-September-2008
Morocco to invest EUR 2.2 billion in renewable energies
According to Moroccan National Electricity Office, Morocco will invest AED 25 billion in renewable energies over the next five years.
English
26-September-2008
Morocco's Banque Populaire nets over $193m profit in first half of 2008
Morocco's Banque Populaire Group achieved a net profit of $193 million in the first half of 2008, a 22% increase over the same period in 2007, CEO Mohamed Benchaâboun announced on Wednesday (September 24th).
English
26-September-2008
French investments in Morocco ranked first among foreign investments
French investments in Morocco have been at the forefront of foreign direct investment in the Kingdom during the past year.
English
25-September-2008
Moroccan to open higher institute for traditional crafts
Morocco’s government wants to boost the traditional crafts sector by opening the first higher institute to train professional craftsmen. Artisans are excited about the initiative but fear competition.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2008/09/25/feature-02
25-September-2008
Best Western chooses Saidia Morocco resort for first Premier hotel in Middle East
Property Logic, the leading tourism developer of Mediterrania-Saïdia Morocco, has announced the launch of two new resorts in Le Jardin de Fleur Saïdia, the Best Western Premier Le Jardin de Fleur, set to open in 2009, and Hivernage Resort & Spa Saïdia in 2010.
English
http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?id=24827&t=1&c=33&cg=4&mset=
25-September-2008
Moroccan banks not exposed to U.S. crisis: central bank
Morocco's banks are not exposed to the U.S. financial crisis but the economy could be affected by the global economic slowdown triggered by overseas financial turmoil, Morocco's central bank chief said on Thursday.
English
http://africa.reuters.com/business/news/usn84F00F6A-8B0B-11DD-8949-F594A0527F83.html
23-September-2008
Morocco partakes in WIPO member states assemblies
Morocco attaches a special importance to the system of intellectual property and to the role and work of the different committees and organizations of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Moroccan ambassador to the Geneva-based UN office, Mohamed Loulichki said.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/world/morocco_partakes_in/view
22-September-2008
USTDA awards grant for investment promotion in Morocco's oil and gas sector
The promotion of Morocco's upstream oil and gas, and minerals sector is the goal of a USTDA grant that was awarded today to the Office National des Hydrocarbures et des Mines (ONHYM) of Morocco. The grant will be used to fund technical assistance to ONHYM in the preparation of data packages for potential exploration partners and investors, and in arranging promotional industry road shows and meetings in the United States.
English
http://www.ustda.gov/news/pressreleases/2008/MENA/Morocco/MoroccoONHYMInvestmentPromotion_091708.asp
22-September-2008
Morocco plans $12bn to boost phosphate business
Morocco’s Office Cherifien de Phosphate (OCP), the world’s leading phosphate exporter, plans to invest more than $12 billion in the next years to expand output and world market share, its chief executive officer said.
English
http://www.thenews.com.pk/print1.asp?id=137009
22-September-2008
Moroccan government brings in plan to reduce trade imbalance
As imports grow faster than exports, Morocco's trade balance is fast increasing. The government has announced a plan aimed at curbing the growing imbalance.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2008/09/22/feature-02
22-September-2008
Morocco to record 6.8% growth rate despite international financial crisis
The Moroccan government said it was optimistic about the economic growth of the Kingdom, which should record about 6.8% in 2008, despite the international financial crisis.
English
http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?id=24649&t=1&c=33&cg=4&mset=
22-September-2008
Sonasid of Morocco Net Climbs 73% on Steel Demand, Inventories
Societe Nationale de Siderurgie, a Moroccan subsidiary of ArcelorMittal, said first-half Profit rose 73 percent helped by higher demand for steel and gains on inventories.
English
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601116&sid=aIYOn22SiEKc&refer=africa
17-September-2008
World Bank, USDTA highlight Morocco's investment climate
A meeting jointly organized by the World Bank and the U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) on Monday (September 15th) in Washington highlighted investment opportunities in Morocco.
English
17-September-2008
IMF highlights Morocco's 'positive economic' performance in 2008
In a report published on Tuesday, the IMF stressed that with a more diversified economy, stronger public finances, and a sound financial sector, Morocco is well poised to continue its progress.
English
http://www.imf.org/external/pubs/cat/longres.cfm?sk=22361.0
16-September-2008
Morocco's manufacturing production expands by 4.2% in second quarter of 2008
Morocco's industrial production index of manufactured goods rose by 4.2% in the second quarter of 2008 compared to the same period last year, according to the Moroccan Planning Council (HCP)
English
15-September-2008
Air Arabia to launch Morocco hub
Air Arabia announced, at the end of last year, that it would establish a hub in Morocco’s capital Rabat, providing a platform to reach Europe, Africa and those parts of the Middle East beyond it’s reach in Sharjah. Air Arabia operates 15 Airbus A320 with 49 on order.
English
15-September-2008
Morocco Managem to start gold exploration in Sudan
Morocco's Managem signed exploration agreements covering territory in Wadi-Gigiya in Sudan's Red Sea State and Al-Sharif in River Nile State, said the state Suna news agency.
English
http://www.miningweekly.com/article.php?a_id=143158
12-September-2008
Marrakesh: Angsana Riads
Angsana, the Singapore-based sister brand of Banyan Tree hotels, has made a major foray into Morocco with the launch of a terrific family of riads. Run by impeccably trained young hotel professionals, this group of six properties, all located in the medina, have wonderful spa menus that blend indigenous hammam culture with first-rate Thai, Ayurvedic, and Javanese massages.
English
http://www.concierge.com/cntraveler/blogs/80days/2008/09/marrakesh-angsa.html
11-September-2008
Come fly with me: new UK to Morocco flights
Low cost airline Ryanair will add Morocco onto its list of European destinations as of next month, which will help to boost tourism in the North African country.
English
http://www.themovechannel.com/news/FAB7DBF0-EF2E/
11-September-2008
Morocco receives UN help to defeat livestock disease
The Moroccan government is working with the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization to combat an outbreak of the livestock disease PPR, which has been reported in nearly 4,000 animals across the country.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2008/09/11/feature-01
10-September-2008
Doing Business 2009: Reforms speeds up in MENA
Morocco and its Middle East and North African neighbors continue to ease the regulatory burden of doing business, according to Doing Business 2009 — the sixth in an annual series of reports published by IFC and the World Bank.
English
http://www.doingbusiness.org/ExploreEconomies/?economyid=132
10-September-2008
Fairmont Announces Resort In Morocco
Fairmont Hotels & Resorts has announced a new property, Fairmont Marrakech, Morocco, slated to open in 2011. Building on its growing presence in Europe, Africa and the Middle East, the resort will join other hotels in the region including Fairmont Zanzibar, Tanzania; Fairmont Towers Heliopolis, Cairo; Fairmont Mara Safari Club, Kenya and London’s Savoy, reopening in 2009 following an extensive restoration.
English
http://www.hotelsmag.com/article/CA6594881.html?industryid=47562
10-September-2008
Morocco's FOGARIM fund benefits aspiring homeowners
Morocco's housing-assistance fund FOGARIM recorded a 15% increase in the loans given since last year, the Ministry of Housing, Reconstruction and Urban Development said in statement issued last month. In just a few years, the programme has improved living standards for more than 200,000 Moroccans with limited incomes.
English
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2008/09/10/feature-02
9-September-2008
Gulf Holdings Company launches Morocco project
Gulf Holdings Company (GHC)Gulf Holdings Company, a Middle Eastern diversified holding company, yesterday launched a Dh2.9 billion mixed-use project, Villa Royale, in Morocco. The developer also announced it has acquired 600,000 square metres of land in that country. The Villa Royale project marks GHCGHC's entry into the North African market and is part of the company's mid-term strategy and its first venture outside Bahrain.
English
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20080909040843/secIndustries/pagReal%20Estate
8-September-2008
Morocco launches study to upgrade fisheries
Morocco has launched a study to set up a strategy aimed to develop the competitiveness of the field of fisheries in Morocco, according to a press release of the Agriculture and Fisheries Ministry.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/economy/morocco_launches_stu/view
8-September-2008
Morocco 'offers adventure to visitors'
Morocco has been praised for offering visitors the chance to enjoy a number of exciting activities. Tour operator Journey Beyond Travel said holidaymakers are becoming increasingly keen to engage in more adventurous pursuits to make the most of their time abroad.
English
5-September-2008
Morocco's financial sector weathering global storm
Morocco's financial sector is weathering the global storm, said theOxford Business Group (OBG) on Thursday, noting that the country is on track to continue its plan to float.
English
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/box4/morocco_s_financial/view
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