• The Moroccan government aims to boost exports by using digital platforms to unlock the untapped potential of its export market.
• A partnership agreement was signed on April 9 to advance the digital transformation of the trade sector.
• Three key digital platforms will provide tailored services, increase visibility, and offer AI-driven insights to help Moroccan exporters succeed internationally.

The Moroccan government is focusing on digital solutions to accelerate the growth of exports in goods and services. With an estimated $10.5 billion worth of untapped potential, this strategy aims to unlock significant economic opportunities for the country.

On April 9, the Ministry of Digital Transition and Public Administration Reform and the Ministry of Industry and Trade signed a partnership agreement to push forward the digitization of the commercial sector. The agreement outlines two main areas of focus: the first is increasing the use of digital tools among local merchants, fostering innovation in trade, and promoting domestic e-commerce. The second is to focus on expanding export efforts, with a specific emphasis on supporting businesses in their export journey through digital platforms.

Three digital platforms lie at the heart of this initiative. "One Shop Store Export" offers personalized services and advice for exporters, helping them navigate the complexities of international trade. "Trade.ma" works to showcase Morocco's exportable products by enhancing their visibility in global markets. Meanwhile, "Tijaria," launched in March, utilizes artificial intelligence to provide accurate, up-to-date information on export procedures and help identify international business opportunities.

This initiative is part of the broader "Go-To-Market" program, launched in July 2023, which aims to solidify Morocco’s position as a key global player and drive the international expansion of Moroccan businesses. Between 2020 and 2024, the country's export revenues grew from 263 billion dirhams to around 455 billion dirhams. However, a government study revealed a substantial gap in export performance, suggesting that there’s still room for improvement.

The strategy aligns with Morocco’s "Digital Morocco 2030" vision, which seeks to make digital technology a catalyst for development across all sectors of the economy. In the field of international trade, digitization can simplify export procedures, reduce processing times, and increase the global visibility of Moroccan products through an optimized online presence. It also provides real-time data on market trends, competition, and potential business opportunities, enhancing market intelligence.

Despite the promising potential, some challenges remain. The successful adoption of these digital platforms may be limited by the digital skills of the target users. Moreover, while digital tools are critical, they alone will not solve the challenges facing Morocco’s exports. The "Go-To-Market" program also emphasizes enhancing the competitiveness of businesses, tapping into new markets, and supporting the export of innovative products.

Isaac K. Kassouwi