A U.S. trade mission will visit Morocco in May to explore collaborative business and investment opportunities in the agri-food export industry. Morocco’s ambassador to the United States, Youssef Amrani, shared the update on his X.
The Western U.S. Agricultural Trade Association (WUSATA), along with the 15 Western Region Departments of Agriculture, confirmed participation in the trade mission, providing U.S. exporters with the chance to access the Moroccan market and expand export opportunities.
WUSATA emphasized the trade mission presents a valuable opportunity for companies aiming to grow exports to North Africa, especially in crucial industries.
Morocco has recently welcomed multiple trade delegations and American business leaders, reflecting heightened interest from U.S. economic players in strengthening trade and investment ties with the country. The development is supported by the strategic partnership between Rabat and Washington and the free trade agreement facilitating commerce between the two nations.
The Moroccan government recognizes the agri-food sector as a vital economic driver, generating over $17 billion annually and creating more than 161,000 jobs.
As stated by Morocco’s industry ministry, the sector substantially aids the nation’s economy, employing 21% of the industrial workforce, contributing 24% to industrial added value, and accounting for 23% of total industry turnover.
Morocco and the United States boast strong diplomatic relations, which extend to sectors like agriculture. The two countries signed the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) on June 15, 2004, and it officially came into effect on January 1, 2006. The agreement removed tariffs on more than 90% of industrial and consumer goods, granting U.S. wheat exports favorable access to the Moroccan market.
Last year, U.S. exports to Morocco amounted to $5.3 billion, reflecting a 37% growth compared to the previous year. Meanwhile, imports from Morocco reached nearly $2 billion, showing a 12% increase from 2023. Morocco has become the 46th largest export market for U.S. goods.
TRADE WORLD | Lula Visits Japan to Boost Trade Ties and Tackle Tariffs
