Under the high patronage of King Mohammed VI, Morocco’s Minister of Industry and Trade, Ryad Mezzour, chaired the National Trade Forum “Trade Morocco 2030” in Marrakech, with the participation of investors and institutional partners.
The opening session saw the signing of two key framework agreements. The first, focused on training, employment, and structuring the sector, was signed between the ministry, ANAPEC (National Agency for Employment and Skills Promotion), and OneRetail. It aims to create structured job opportunities and develop tailored training programs.
The second agreement targets the digital transformation of small retailers. It was signed between the ministry, Al Barid Bank, Barid Cash, and Chari, with the goal of integrating 100,000 traders into the digital financial system.
In his speech, Mezzour stressed that the trade sector receives strong royal support, highlighting that small shop owners remain essential to both the social and economic fabric of the country. He also praised their early participation in Morocco’s social protection initiative.
The minister noted that the 2019 edition of the forum produced 1,500 recommendations in collaboration with professional chambers and institutional partners, about 80% of which have already been implemented.
He added that Morocco currently has around 1,200 markets, with 289 more under development, aiming to create modern marketplaces in both rural and urban areas as part of a unified national development vision.
On digitalization, Mezzour announced the creation of an incubator for Moroccan digital solutions tailored to local traders. He also revealed that electronic payment fees have been reduced from 1.7% to 0.8% thanks to cooperation with Al Barid Bank and Chari, with the government committed to supporting the first 100,000 traders who join this initiative.
Regarding administrative simplification, he said some business activities may soon require only a declaration instead of a license, with ongoing discussions involving the Ministry of Interior.
He concluded by emphasizing that collective engagement is key to building “Morocco 2030” and the future of trade, especially in light of upcoming major national milestones.
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