| By David Morgan |
| Wednesday, 19 May 2010 13:35 |
 On 21 June, the Arab-British Chamber of Commerce in cooperation with Maroc Export will present Moroccan-British Trade, an event designed to give an insight into Morocco’s export potential. The event will take place in the presence of H H Princess Lalla Joumala Alaoui, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco to the UK and H E Mr Abdellatif Maazouz, the Moroccan Minister of Foreign Trade. The focus will be on three leading sectors which offer real potential for investment and trade: the garment and textile industry; agriculture and fisheries; and the automotive industry. As a gateway to Europe, Africa and the Middle East, Morocco represents an ideal export platform for access to some huge regional markets. The country operates a successful market economy and has long been noted for its openness to foreign investment. It pursues a policy of gradual reform to improve the business environment. It is open to foreign capital which now plays an important part in the total investment and does not discriminate between national and foreign investors. Agriculture & FisheriesMorocco is modernising its agriculture and agri-business sector in order to diversify production, enhance its added value and supply international markets with its produce. In recognition of the great potential for agricultural development, in 2008 the Ministry of Agriculture launched the Green Morocco Plan (Maroc Vert), which aims to develop a modern, high-performance and competitive agriculture. A related programme involves the upgrading of the fishing industry. There are a range of opportunities emerging in this sector: market gardening of spices and small fruit like strawberries; development of organic farming and pre-cooked dishes; olives, olive oil, fruit juices; modern fishing techniques and seafood processing. Attractions for investors include exemptions from corporate tax and income tax for the agricultural sector until 2013. There are also specific measures to support integrated projects in basic foodstuffs such as milk and wheat, products with high added value like citrus and olive oil and products for mass consumption like confectionery and biscuits. Six agri-parks are currently operational or under development in Meknes, Gharb, Berkane/Madagh, Agadir, Haouz and Tadla. Garments and Textile IndustryTextiles, leather and clothing is the premiere industrial sector in the country and plays a major role in the social and economic development of the regions. Driven by changing consumer behaviour patterns and market globalisation, the industry offers opportunities for development through increased exports. Opportunities in the country’s garments industry today include the production of casual and sportswear; under garments; the production of wool, cotton, synthetic textile and artificial fibres for weaving. Among the market support available to the sector, the Export Free Zone in the Tangier Med offers specific incentives for operators. Automotive IndustryThis industry is characterised by bodywork and trailer manufacturing as well as the vehicle assembly plants. At present the industry is mainly oriented towards the domestic Moroccan market. However, the country is seeking to boost its exports by deriving more benefits from its competitive production costs and proximity to European markets. Following a major deal with French car firm, Renault, to launch a new “family car” in Morocco, the automotive sector is being repositioned. The aim is to integrate national capacity within a global manufacturing strategy and attract more production activities and facilities into the country. It is anticipated that a revamped automotive sector could generate €630mn in additional GDP and create 40,000 new jobs by 2015. Opportunities for investors range from production of components such as wiring harnesses, filters, connectors, exhaust pipes, seats and hoods, tyres and electronics to assembly and carriage works. Automotive cities and dedicated industrial sites have been established in Tangiers and Kenitra, as well as Export Free Zones and zones dedicated to original equipment manufacturing in Melloussa and Tetouan. Source : Global Arab Network |