Morocco gains recognition for active role in global trade system – WTO
The World Trade Organization has highlighted Morocco’s significant contributions to the multilateral trading system in two major reports published this month, recognizing the kingdom’s active participation and positive influence since the historic 1994 Marrakech Agreement that established the organization.
Morocco’s 2024 trade policy review earned praise from the WTO for the country’s dynamic engagement in critical debates covering plastic pollution, environmental sustainability, investment facilitation, small business support, and services trade. The organization particularly commended Morocco’s practical initiatives that demonstrate how international trade can drive local development and social empowerment.
The WTO’s annual report spotlighted the Doum for Women cooperative in Marrakech as an emblematic Moroccan success story. This initiative employs over 250 rural women, enabling financial independence through the production of eco-friendly artisanal products for international markets. The cooperative exemplifies Morocco’s approach to leveraging trade for women’s empowerment and sustainable development.
Morocco was also selected for a video series titled “Tracing the Spirit of Marrakesh,” showcasing inspiring trade success stories and reinforcing the country’s historical importance to the WTO’s foundation and continued influence. This recognition underscores Morocco’s central role in shaping global trade governance since hosting the organization’s founding agreement.
The reports note that while merchandise trade growth in Africa remained the weakest outside Europe in 2024, Morocco can access various WTO support mechanisms including the Aid for Trade initiative, the Fund for Women Exporters in the Digital Economy, and specialized training programs for government officials.
New digital commerce regulations could reduce global trade costs by over $125 billion annually, while the extension of the moratorium on electronic transmission duties until 2026 benefits Morocco’s growing digital economy. The new Investment Facilitation for Development Agreement, supported by nearly ninety developing countries, aims to attract foreign investment for sustainable development projects.