On the second day of the British-Moroccan Business Forum, the dynamic shifted to Casablanca, the economic capital and financial hub of Morocco. This significant move aims to deepen and solidify bilateral cooperation while supporting the national development program in preparation for the 2030 FIFA World Cup. The event will see a delegation of fifty active British companies and business leaders from diverse sectors meet with officials from the General Confederation of Moroccan Enterprises (CGEM) this Wednesday afternoon. This follows a formal commitment made by the British trade envoy to the Moroccan capital, Ben Coleman, who announced a clear intention to double trade between the United Kingdom and Morocco over the next five years.
This notable economic event, jointly organized by the Moroccan government, the CGEM, and the UK Department for Business and Trade, reflects the growing momentum in relations between the two countries and their shared ambition to translate strategic cooperation into tangible economic outcomes. The initial phase of the forum kicked off yesterday in Rabat, where promising partnerships were discussed in sectors such as infrastructure, transportation, security, investment, and the sports economy, according to information provided to the online news outlet Hespress.
Exploring Infrastructure Partnerships
The forum commenced with introductory remarks from Mehdi Tazi, Vice President of the CGEM, and Ben Coleman, the British trade envoy to Morocco. In his speech, Tazi addressed the trajectory of the growing strategic partnership between the two nations and Morocco's economic attractiveness. He emphasized that the relations between Morocco and the United Kingdom are becoming stronger, deeper, and more ambitious year by year, driven by mutual trust and British expertise in areas such as infrastructure, clean energy, and technology.
Discussing the 2030 World Cup, which Morocco will co-host with Spain and Portugal, Tazi remarked that it transcends being merely a sporting event; it represents a comprehensive national transformation project. He stated that this endeavor will involve substantial investments in transportation, airports, logistics, water infrastructure, and smart cities, thereby creating enormous and sustainable investment opportunities for British companies and technology providers beyond 2030.
The head of the Moroccan employers’ federation reiterated the readiness and ambition of the Moroccan private sector to forge deep and close partnerships with their British counterparts, aiming to turn available opportunities into shared and sustainable success stories. He also highlighted the continuous growth of bilateral trade since the partnership agreement took effect in 2019, now exceeding £4.6 billion annually. Tazi noted the significant positive impact of the UK’s support for Morocco's autonomy plan, considering it a strong signal that provides investors with clarity, stability, and long-term certainty.
In addressing British business leaders, Tazi summarized Morocco's current economic appeal in three main elements: vision, stability, and execution, thanks to the comprehensive and qualitative transformation the kingdom has undergone over the past 26 years under King Mohammed VI. He pointed out that Morocco has successfully transitioned into the most industrialized nation on the African continent, with the automotive sector expected to export over one million vehicles this year, while the aviation sector now hosts more than 140 global companies supplying major international manufacturers. He also highlighted new economic reforms such as the Investment Charter, which enhances competitiveness, and the Mohammed VI Investment Fund, which plays a vital role in mobilizing capital and supporting vital future sectors.
Sectoral Workshops and Future Discussions
The forum is also set to include specialized and intensive sectoral sessions aimed at facilitating dialogue and the direct exchange of experiences while identifying collaboration opportunities. Open and direct discussions are anticipated with the British delegation (comprising around 50 companies) and solution providers in fields such as security, infrastructure, fan experience, and event management. Discussions will focus on financing solutions and future projects, with Maryam Benani, Director of UK Export Finance in Morocco, set to present an overview of the agency and detail plans and projects from major companies like CMS Contractors and Morocco’s SGTM Group.
The Business Forum will particularly emphasize showcasing emerging technologies and security tactics in crowded places, featuring international experts like Sean Hibgrave, Andy Cox, and William Weber, as well as a session to engage with registered security service providers in Morocco. It is noteworthy that the official British delegation, led by Chris Bryant, Minister of State for Trade, comprises around 50 British companies representing vital sectors such as transportation, security, engineering, design, and professional services.
Additionally, during his visit, the British minister will hold bilateral meetings with Moroccan ministers and co-chair the fourth session of the UK-Morocco Partnership Council alongside Ryad Mezzour, the Minister of Trade and Industry. The day's meetings are expected to conclude with the "Casa Connect" event at the British consulate in Casablanca, aimed at strengthening new business ties and reaffirming the UK's interest in supporting Morocco's long-term development ambitions.
As reported by hespress.com.
