First Independent Mena Newspaper
Morocco is redrawing its grain import map as the country grapples with persistent drought and shifting global supply dynamics The government expects cereal imports to reach 7.5 million tons during the 2024–2025 crop year, up from 6.5 million tons the previous year. The increase comes as domestic production continues to suffer from severe rainfall deficits. […]
Airbus Helicopters will provide Morocco ten H225M Caracal multi-role tactical transport helicopters, according to press reports, saying the deal has been finally sealed after marathon negotiations. Morocco’s interest in the H225M dates back to December 2021 as the country seeks to modernize its helicopter fleet and replace its SA330 Puma helicopters. But the negotiations were […]
The Royal Navy and the American Navy conducted lately joint exercises focusing on hydrographic surveys, technical diving and security operations for installations at the port of Casablanca. The joint naval exercises, held from August 17 to 31, seek to enhance interoperability and maritime security and protect ports facilities against terrorist threats targeting global maritime trade. […]
Moroccan mining group Managem said it has officially commenced gold production at its Boto mine in southeastern Senegal, in an investment that totalled 350 million euros. Located in the Kédougou region, the Boto mine is expected to produce an average of 160,000 ounces of gold annually over its first three years, with total reserves estimated […]
As global demand for critical minerals accelerates, Australian mining companies are ramping up their presence across Africa, positioning the country as a key player in the global energy transition. With Africa holding an estimated 30% of the world’s known mineral resources, Australian Securities Exchange (ASX)-listed companies are seizing the opportunity, specialized Australian website mining.com.au said […]
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has appointed Haytham Eissa Head of the Bank’s Office in Morocco, in replacement Antoine Sallé de Chou. Mr Eissa said: “Building on the EBRD’s strong track record in Morocco, I am committed to driving even greater impact in the years ahead. We will continue to invest in […]
Morocco’s household consumption patterns reveal stark regional disparities, with five regions accounting for 74 percent of the nation’s total consumer spending in 2023, according to data released Tuesday by the High Commission for Planning (HCP). The concentration underscores persistent economic imbalances despite ongoing development initiatives. Casablanca-Settat leads overwhelmingly with 25 percent of national household final […]
The long-discussed undersea tunnel that would link Morocco and Spain across the Strait of Gibraltar has gained fresh momentum following the signing of new contracts aimed at reviving the ambitious infrastructure project. Spain’s Ministry of Transport has commissioned public company EniCo to conduct a comprehensive financial feasibility study, backed by €350,000 in funding from the […]
Libya’s Planning Minister Mohamed Al-Zidani has underscored the importance of digital transformation in the country’s banking sector as a driver of investment confidence. Speaking at the Third Forum of Libyan Banks, held Monday, under the theme “A Digital Takeoff for Libyan Banks,” he said digitization is the product of collaboration between banks, regulators, and national […]
Africa is emerging as a key manufacturing hub for Indian companies, as record-high U.S. tariffs — now up to 50% — threaten India’s export competitiveness, particularly in textiles, pharmaceuticals, and gems. The penalties, imposed largely in response to India’s continued oil trade with Russia, have forced Indian firms to pivot strategically toward Africa to maintain […]