Since the FTA came into force, trade has quadrupled, reaching unprecedented levels. The results are established by the magazine Challengewhich indicates that Moroccan exports to the United States, particularly in the textile and agricultural sectors, benefited from preferential access to 98.78% of American tariff positions. At the same time, U.S. agricultural products were integrated with phase-outs spanning several decades, providing a gradual balance of benefits.
«However, the trade balance remains largely in deficit for Morocco. Moroccan imports, consisting mainly of cereals, industrial equipment and advanced technologies, surpass exports to the American market. Strict rules of origin, particularly in the textile sector, have sometimes limited benefits for Moroccan industries, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which struggle to meet the demands of the US market», lit.
From the United States’ point of view, the FTA goes beyond simple trade issues. It represents a key tool to strengthen their economic and strategic presence in Africa. Morocco is seen as a gateway to African markets, particularly since the signing of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA). Thanks to its industrial free zones and modern infrastructure such as the Tangier Med port and the high-speed rail line, the Kingdom has become a strategic hub for exports to Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
Washington also sees the FTA as a catalyst for strengthened bilateral relations. American recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over the Sahara constitutes a major political anchor, consolidating Morocco as a strategic regional ally and a pillar of stability in North Africa.
For Morocco, the FTA offers a platform for economic diversification. The agricultural and textile sectors, although dominant, could be complemented by emerging industries with high added value, such as artificial intelligence, biotechnologies and renewable energies. These opportunities could strengthen Moroccan competitiveness in the American market while attracting more foreign direct investment (FDI).
«However, Moroccan SMEs, often constrained by limited capacities and high compliance requirements, require technical and financial support to better integrate into the American value chain. Additionally, training local talent in digital and industrial technologies becomes crucial to meet the needs of tomorrow’s industries», lit-on encore.
