Morocco, US discuss closer trade ties

An official Moroccan trade delegation held talks in Washington with top officials at the he U.S. Department of Commerce on building on their existing Free Trade Agreement to further boost ties.

The Moroccan delegation was led by industry and trade minister Ryad Mezzour, while the US delegation was chaired by the US Assistant Trade Representative for Europe and the Middle East.

Talks focused on boosting trade in farming and textile goods as well as the opportunities offered in Morocco to investors, in growing areas such as the automotive industry.

Speaking at the event, Mezzour said the full potential of the free trade agreement is yet to be unlocked, noting the need to address non-tariff barriers to bilateral trade.

At least 150 US firms are currently operating in Morocco, which has significantly improved its business climate and attractiveness to foreign investors, the minister said.

He added that Morocco has a key role to play in the US Inflation Reduction Act, adding that “The Kingdom could provide a gateway for the United States to the African market.”

Morocco is also poised to help the US in the development of resilient and sustainable supply chains in strategic sectors, including renewable energy, he said.