The tourism sector is flourishing thanks to government support

The Ministry of Tourism, Craft Industry and Social and Solidarity Economy has demonstrably strengthened the tourism sector over the past thirty months. By injecting 2 billion dirhams into the industry, they have supported almost 800 hotel companies across Morocco and provided monthly compensation to workers in the tourism sector.

This proactive government support came at a critical time. As the tourism sector sought to regain its footing following the global health crisis, the government implemented a new roadmap for 2023-2026. This roadmap aimed to develop Morocco’s tourism brand through initiatives such as attracting more than 30 new airlines and increasing seat capacity by 22% compared to 2022. Collaboration with stakeholders aims to bring Morocco to position the top 15 global tourist destinations.

These efforts have yielded impressive results. 2023 was a record year for the number of tourists, with a staggering 34% increase compared to 2022, reaching 14.5 million visitors. This increase in tourism translated into significant revenue generation, with a 12% increase to 105 billion dirhams compared to 2022. The positive trend continued in 2024, with 2.1 million tourists arriving between January and February, marking a 14% increase year-on-year reflects .

The craft industry and the social-solidarity economy are growing

The ministry has also focused on strengthening the traditional industrial sector. For the first time in 2022, traditional industrial exports exceeded the 1 billion dirham threshold, with the aim of reaching the 2 billion dirham mark in 2026.

The government has taken steps to increase the sector’s competitiveness and support artisans. This includes the establishment of the National Register of Traditional Artisans, which currently covers 395,000 artisans, and the universalization of the AMO’s mandatory health care system for more than 641,000 artisans and their families.

Social and solidarity economy: strengthening communities

The ministry recognizes the importance of the social and solidarity economy in creating jobs. With an ambitious target to create 50,000 jobs annually, the ministry is actively strengthening capacities through training in various areas such as legislation, cooperative management and marketing. In 2023, they provided 480 training courses and supported the creation of 353 new cooperatives.

Marketing initiatives are also not overlooked. The ministry organized national, regional and mobile markets, facilitating the participation of cooperatives in international exhibitions. In addition, efforts are being made to protect Moroccan products as UNESCO heritage. In 2023, six crafts received this award, with more planned for 2024.

These initiatives by the Ministry of Tourism, Traditional Industry and Social and Solidarity Economy demonstrate a commitment to advancing various sectors. The positive results in tourism and the focus on traditional industries and social programs bode well for Morocco’s future.