The General Confederation of Moroccan Enterprises (CGEM) reaffirmed its commitment to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) at the Marrakech Business Forum, underscoring the Kingdom’s central and growing role in the continent’s economic integration.
Speaking at the second edition of the AfCFTA Business Forum, CGEM Vice-President Mehdi Tazi, alongside Moroccan Minister of Industry and Trade Ryad Mezzour, highlighted the transformative potential of the agreement. Tazi emphasized the need to build a more competitive and sovereign Africa in light of unprecedented demographic and urban transformation, which is driving up demand for infrastructure, industrial products, and modern services.
Tazi noted that persistent challenges—such as limited industrialization and low intra-African trade (less than 15 percent)—must be addressed. He argued that the AfCFTA represents a historic opportunity to correct these imbalances and build a genuine “Made in Africa” brand based on local resources and strengthened regional value chains.
To achieve this ambition, the CGEM has identified several core priorities: Developing logistics and energy infrastructure. Improving financing mechanisms for SMEs. Bridging the digital divide. Facilitating the free movement of people. Strengthening targeted training and communication regarding the AfCFTA’s benefits.
Welcoming the “strategic vision” of King Mohammed VI for regional integration, Mr. Tazi stated that Morocco is now firmly establishing itself as a pillar of the AfCFTA.
He pointed to several of Morocco’s competitive advantages that solidify its position as a platform for “Made in Africa” production: Advanced infrastructure and extensive air connectivity. The presence of Moroccan financial institutions in 26 African countries. A well-established continental investment ecosystem.
The CGEM concluded by reaffirming its commitment to deploying high-impact industrial and economic projects with African economic stakeholders and development partners, pursuing a co-development vision aimed at building a more self-reliant and competitive Africa.
MK/Ak/Sf/fss/abj/APA