CASABLANCA, April 30 – Morocco could generate up to 1.7 million additional jobs by 2035 and expand its real GDP by nearly 20% above baseline projections if it implements structural reforms, according to a new report by the World Bank Group.
The “Morocco Growth and Jobs Report,” developed in partnership with the government, outlines a reform agenda aimed at accelerating economic growth, boosting private investment, and expanding employment opportunities, particularly for women and young people.
Despite significant economic progress over recent decades, the report highlights a persistent gap between growth and job creation. Between 2000 and 2024, Morocco’s working-age population grew nearly 2.5 times faster than employment levels, underscoring structural challenges in the labor market.
The study also points to limited competition across much of the economy, with around 40% of industries operating under weak competitive pressure. This has constrained productivity and limited the ability of firms to scale. At the same time, female labor force participation remains among the lowest globally, despite relatively strong educational attainment.
To address these issues, the report identifies four priority reform areas: improving market competition, supporting more dynamic and productive firms, enhancing the efficiency of public investment, and building more inclusive labor markets.
If implemented effectively, these measures could generate up to 2.5 million jobs by 2050 while significantly strengthening long-term economic output.
Ahmadou Moustapha Ndiaye said Morocco has already built a strong economic foundation but has the potential to go further by deepening private investment and creating broader opportunities across society.
A separate analysis by the World Bank Group highlights key sectors with strong investment potential, including decentralized solar energy, low-carbon textiles, argan-based cosmetics, and marine aquaculture. These sectors align with Morocco’s broader goals around green growth, industrial development, and regional expansion.
However, the report notes that the main barrier is not a lack of opportunity but regulatory and policy constraints. Complex administrative procedures, unclear regulations, and skills gaps continue to deter investors.
To unlock this potential, the World Bank recommends streamlining and digitalizing administrative processes, improving regulatory clarity, strengthening traceability systems, and expanding access to infrastructure and renewable energy.
If these reforms are implemented, Morocco could attract around $7.4 billion in private investment and create more than 166,000 jobs in key sectors over the next five to ten years.
Cheick-Oumar Sylla added that Morocco is well-positioned to scale up private sector engagement, with opportunities that could mobilize investment equivalent to about 4% of GDP.
Overall, the report suggests that with the right policy adjustments, Morocco can transition from steady growth to a more inclusive and job-rich economic model.
