How was the Maison de l’Occitanie in Casablanca created?
La Maison de l’Occitanie was created in 2012. It supports Occitan companies in their establishment and export to Morocco. We are organized multi-sectorally, like the other international offices and offices of the Region (New York, London, Shanghai and Tokyo). The Occitanie Region has signed numerous agreements of intent with Moroccan Regions for decentralized cooperation. Our focal point is also to support Moroccan companies who wish to establish themselves in Europe and therefore in Occitania. The agri-food industry is a historic sector with the establishment of several Moroccan companies in the region.
We therefore have three missions: support for the economic development of Occitan businesses in Morocco, the influence of Occitania and a component on the attractiveness of the region in the Kingdom.
We supported 70 companies in 2023
What are the profiles of French companies that want to set up or export to Morocco?
We supported 70 companies in 2023 and their profile is very varied. This ranges from start-ups to large companies. The majority still remain small and medium-sized businesses. We work in particular with companies operating in sectors supported by the Occitanie Region, such as water, the environment, green tech, rail or even health…etc. The subject of green hydrogen is particularly important here in Morocco. We also support companies in agro-tech, digital technology and sustainable cities.
We help them better understand the local market but also we put them in contact with local experts
How do you support these companies?
We have individual and collective actions. We support companies on field missions in Morocco, particularly during trade fairs, and we establish relationships with Moroccan partners. We also offer accommodation for companies or professional associations in the Occitanie region in our premises, for up to two years, but also during a one-off trip to Casablanca to be able to work or organize meetings. We also organize information and awareness workshops. We help them better understand the local market but also put them in touch with local experts on legal, tax and regulatory issues.
Do companies tend to export or establish themselves in Morocco?
It really depends on the sector and the business model. We support companies that wish to export their products but some must set up in Morocco or find a local partner to be able to carry out their activity. This is the case, for example, of those who must provide after-sales service. In certain sectors, it is also necessary to hire a local team.
Can you tell us about the Maroc-Occitanie Club?
The Morocco Occitanie Club is an initiative launched on March 8, 2024 by the Occitanie Region and its economic development agency, AD’OCC. This club aims to support regional companies in their expansion into the Moroccan market by facilitating exchanges and creating synergies between economic players in the two territories. The Club today has 135 members and partner members. This club spirit allows feedback from actors already present in Morocco for those who wish to settle there. We supply this club in partnership with Team France Export.
La Maison de l’Occitanie continues its commitment to serving regional businesses
What actions are planned for 2025?
In 2025, the Maison de l’Occitanie continues its commitment to serving regional businesses by focusing on strategic sectors: rail, green hydrogen, digital (with a particular emphasis on health and water), and agritech.
To support their international development, several flagship actions are planned around major events such as the International Agricultural Show in Morocco, GITEX, World Power to X and the Rail Industry Summit. These initiatives aim to offer businesses in the Occitanie region networking opportunities, partnerships, and increased visibility in growing markets.
The Maison de l’Occitanie thus reaffirms its role in economic cooperation between the region and its Moroccan partners.
