Economy

The Moroccan economy experienced several setbacks in 2012 due to a combination of unfavourable global economic trends, a volatile exchange rate and a drought that caused a drop in revenues from its primary sector, agriculture. However, the government is committed to addressing the most pressing concerns for the economy, having laid out development plans for the agriculture and tourism sectors. A strategy to expand emerging industries and exports is also placing emphasis on public-private partnerships, which will likely be key to growth in the coming years. Additional reforms are being implemented to address unemployment, attract foreign investment and create a better business environment. This chapter includes interviews with Nizar Baraka, Minister of Economy and Finance; Chakib Benmoussa, President, Economic, Social and Environmental Council; and Ahmed Fassi-Fihri, Investment Promotion Manager, Moroccan Investment Development Agency.