AGP Executive Report

Morocco-EU Power Links: Morocco is pushing ahead with electricity interconnection planning with Spain, Portugal and France, while holding firm in separate talks with Germany’s Sila Atlantik subsea cable project, including demands for a formal intergovernmental deal and two-way power flows. World Cup Infrastructure: Architectural Digest spotlights Morocco’s Grand Stade Hassan II near Casablanca as a 115,000-seat centerpiece for the 2030 co-hosted World Cup, designed by Populous with Moroccan architect Oualalou. Bank Al-Maghrib & Payments: Cash in circulation in Morocco jumped 18.5% in 2025 to 491bn dirhams, with the central bank warning that heavy cash use raises costs and risks tied to the informal economy. Airline Consumer Pressure: Morocco’s Royal Air Maroc faces an NCAA threat of suspension in Nigeria over repeated passenger-rights complaints, especially baggage handling and poor resolution. Industrial & Trade Cooperation: Kazakhstan and Morocco report a 68% trade surge (to about $451mn) and discuss deeper industrial and agricultural cooperation. Politics & Industry: Istiqlal unveiled its first 2026 parliamentary candidate slate, including key ministers tied to industry, trade and transport.

Fertilizer & Industry: Koch Ag & OCP signed a 50:50 JV to expand phosphate fertilizer output at Jorf Lasfar, with combined capacity targeted around 2.5 million metric tons a year—another push to secure global supply chains. Macroeconomy & Jobs: Morocco lifted its 2026 growth forecast to 5.3% on a stronger farm rebound and resilient non-agriculture; Bank Al-Maghrib also flagged public-sector financing crowding out private credit and said 2025 job creation improved but unemployment remains high, especially for youth and women. Energy & Regional Trade: ECOWAS endorsed the Nigeria–Morocco African Atlantic gas pipeline framework, advancing a $25–$27bn project meant to link multiple West African markets to Europe. Agriculture & Food: Morocco’s inflation eased to 0.3% in June as food prices fell, while separate coverage points to ongoing agricultural recovery momentum. Diplomacy for Business: Ghana and Morocco reaffirmed cooperation across energy, mining, agriculture, logistics and digital, including support for Morocco’s Sahara autonomy plan. World Cup Spillover: Morocco’s 2030 hotel expansion plans (60,000 beds) keep tying tourism capacity to industrial and services growth.

Morocco Jobs & Credit: Bank Al-Maghrib says 2025 job creation rebounded (193,000 jobs vs 82,000 in 2024) but unemployment stays stubborn, especially for women and youth, while the central bank also quantified how public financing crowds out private credit (a 1-point-of-GDP rise in bank public assets links to a 0.79-point-of-GDP drop in private lending). Sahara Diplomacy: Ghana backed Morocco’s Western Sahara autonomy plan as “the only realistic and lasting basis,” while Benin reiterated support in a joint statement after talks with Morocco’s foreign minister. Energy & Regional Trade: ECOWAS endorsed the $25bn Nigeria–Morocco Atlantic gas pipeline framework, advancing a corridor meant to move gas through 13 countries toward Morocco and, eventually, Europe—though security and protection across jurisdictions remain key risks. World Cup Afterglow for Morocco: Morocco’s World Cup preparations are back in focus as officials weigh major investment needs ahead of 2030, with the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations starting in Rabat and Morocco also set to host the U-17 Women’s World Cup later. Tourism Signals: OECD-based data shows Morocco’s international arrivals rose 53% from 2019 to 2025, highlighting shifting travel demand beyond traditional hotspots. Industry & Logistics Watch: Police in the Canaries seized 350kg of hashish hidden in vegetable shipments, with investigators pointing to Morocco-linked supply routes via freight networks.

Tourism Push for 2030 World Cup: Morocco plans to add about 60,000 hotel beds by 2030, lifting capacity by roughly a fifth, as the kingdom frames the tournament as an “accelerator” for long-term hospitality growth. Aerospace Industrial Expansion: Curtiss-Wright says it will build a new advanced surface treatment facility in Morocco, aiming for operations by mid-2027 to serve a growing aeronautics supply chain. Road Safety Leadership: In New York, Morocco’s transport minister highlighted the King’s road-safety vision and an Integrated National Strategy for 2030, stressing governance, enforcement, infrastructure, education and AI-enabled innovation. Energy Corridor Momentum: ECOWAS leaders backed the Nigeria–Morocco African Atlantic Gas Pipeline framework, a roughly $25bn project aimed at moving up to 30 bcm of gas annually across West Africa toward Morocco and beyond. Real Estate Watch: Bank Al-Maghrib reports property prices rose moderately in 2025, with Rabat leading gains and Marrakech driving a surge in transactions. Digital & AI Governance: Morocco’s cyber maturity and AI adoption are rising faster than governance controls, according to recent national reporting. Maritime Security Cooperation: Morocco and the US convened the African Maritime Forces Summit in Rabat, focusing on innovation and partnerships to protect commercial shipping and counter threats at sea.

Real Estate Watch: Bank Al-Maghrib reports Morocco’s property prices rose 0.6% in 2025, led by Rabat (+3.6%) while Fez saw the smallest gain (+0.2%); transactions also accelerated, with Marrakech up 29.9% in 2025. Aerospace & Industry: Curtiss-Wright plans a state-of-the-art aerospace surface treatment facility in Morocco, targeting full operations by mid-2027 to serve a growing export-driven aeronautics supply chain. Tourism Capacity Push: Morocco plans to add about 60,000 hotel beds by 2030 for the World Cup, framing the tournament as an “accelerator” for a sector employing nearly 1 million people. Maritime Security: US and African naval leaders met in Rabat to expand partnerships and innovation to tackle threats to commercial shipping, illegal fishing and smuggling. Energy Infrastructure: ECOWAS-backed momentum grows for the Nigeria–Morocco African Atlantic Gas Pipeline, with an intergovernmental agreement signed in Sierra Leone to move from vision to implementation. Cyber Governance: Morocco’s AUSIM/PwC barometer shows cyber maturity rising to 56% in 2026, but talent shortages remain a major bottleneck for companies.

Energy Interconnection: Portugal and Morocco discussed a new EU-backed electricity connection in Lisbon, aiming to add resilience after the Iberian blackout and create a fresh route between Europe and North Africa. Tourism Demand Shift: A study links geopolitical uncertainty to changing travel flows, with Morocco and Spain seeing hotel occupancy gains (including Tangier and Agadir), as travellers delay bookings but still travel. World Cup Afterglow for Industry: Morocco plans to add about 60,000 hotel beds for the 2030 World Cup and invest over 190bn dirhams in rail, roads, airports and urban infrastructure to turn tourism into a long-term growth engine. Aerospace Push: Morocco showcased its aerospace ecosystem at Farnborough, bringing together industry players, startups and training bodies to underline skills and investment momentum. Regional Energy Mega-Project: ECOWAS leaders signed the Intergovernmental Agreement for the $25bn Nigeria–Morocco African Atlantic Gas Pipeline, targeting up to 30 bcm/year and setting the legal path toward construction. Finance & Macro: Bank Al-Maghrib’s governor told King Mohammed VI that 2025 growth hit 4.9% with moderate inflation and an accommodative policy stance, while unemployment remains elevated. Jobs Pressure: Coverage highlights Morocco’s youth jobs crisis as part of a wider global pattern, with protests and policy debate intensifying.

Energy Interconnection: Portugal and Morocco agreed in Lisbon to pursue a cross-border electricity link, aiming to seek EU funding and private co-investment, with a possible IPCEI status and next steps via Brussels talks and a Portugal-Morocco summit in early 2027. West Africa Gas Pipeline: ECOWAS heads of state signed the intergovernmental agreement backing the US$27bn Nigeria–Morocco African Atlantic Gas Pipeline, moving the project from planning to implementation; the deal targets up to 30 bcm/year across nearly 6,900 km, with 15 bcm earmarked for Morocco and Europe via existing links. Morocco Macro & Finance: Bank Al-Maghrib presented its 2025 annual report to King Mohammed VI, highlighting 4.9% growth, 0.8% average inflation, a policy rate cut to 2.25%, and a 3.5% budget deficit. Cybersecurity for Finance: Bank Al-Maghrib and the National Financial Intelligence Authority ran a Rabat workshop on phishing-type fraud ahead of Morocco’s GAFIMOAN evaluation. Agri-Trade Logistics: Morocco reopened onion exports to Africa, while tomato and potato limits remain in place amid congestion at the Rosso border crossing.

West Africa Energy Integration: ECOWAS leaders in Freetown signed the intergovernmental agreement backing the Nigeria–Morocco African Atlantic Gas Pipeline, a roughly 6,000–6,800 km project estimated at about $25–$27bn. The deal sets up the next steps: creating a project company in Casablanca, a pipeline higher authority in Abuja, and moving toward investor mobilization and a Final Investment Decision, with construction targeted for 2028 and first gas deliveries around 2031. Regional Governance & Reform: ECOWAS also appointed Senegal’s Birame Diop to drive reforms at the bloc after approving the long-term plan for security, democracy and economic integration. Tourism & Infrastructure Push: Morocco plans to add about 60,000 hotel beds (around a fifth of current capacity) ahead of the 2030 World Cup, as the country leverages World Cup momentum to sustain tourism growth, alongside major transport and urban infrastructure investment. Legal/Investment Risk: A tribunal in the Khemisset litigation process rejected Morocco’s bid to split jurisdictional objections from the merits, meaning the objections will be handled together with the case substance.

Atlantic Energy Deal: ECOWAS leaders signed an intergovernmental framework for the Nigeria–Morocco Atlantic gas pipeline, a ~6,800-km project led by ONHYM and NNPC that would run across 13 Atlantic-coast countries and feed into Maghreb–Europe gas links, with a Casablanca project company and an Abuja-based Pipeline Higher Authority now set to move the plan toward investors and a final investment decision. Phosphate & Industry Outlook: The IEA says Morocco could reach about 5% of global purified phosphoric acid capacity by 2035 despite holding ~70% of known phosphate reserves, highlighting the kingdom’s growing role in battery supply chains and sulfuric acid production. Food Security Tech: Nigeria launched an AI- and satellite-powered national crop monitoring system (NAPS) via an MoU signed in Ben Guerir with Morocco’s OCP Africa and Ground Truth Analytics, starting with 15 priority states to improve in-season farm data and food-security planning. Fertilizer Support: Morocco donated 500 metric tonnes of fertilizer to Malawi for vulnerable smallholder farmers, aimed at boosting dry-season irrigation output. Security & Governance: A new investigation alleges Morocco used Pegasus spyware (2017–2021), including targeting over 200 Spanish numbers, while Morocco’s security services are also cited in reports about thwarting a Daesh-linked cell.

Food Tech & Security: Morocco-linked OCP Africa and Ground Truth Analytics are behind a satellite/AI crop monitoring push, with Nigeria signing an MoU to launch its National Agro-Productivity System in 15 priority states, aiming for real-time data on land, crops and food-security risks. Fertilizer Supply: St Vincent and the Grenadines has started receiving Moroccan-donated fertilizer, reaching nearly 2,000 farmers across nine districts, with tailored blends for vegetables and root crops. Phosphate Industry: Koch Ag & Energy Solutions and OCP Nutricrops plan a 50/50 joint venture to expand phosphate fertilizer output at Jorf Lasfar, targeting more reliable global supply for North American agriculture. Water & Resilience: Morocco’s dam reservoirs remain high at 71.63% capacity (12.19bn m³), with key basins above 80%, signaling recovery after last year’s stress. Sports Infrastructure & Trade: Morocco and Spain are locked in a behind-the-scenes race for the 2030 World Cup final, as Morocco pushes its new Hassan II Stadium near Casablanca against Spain’s Bernabéu and Camp Nou.

Morocco–Spain 2030 World Cup Final Bid: Morocco is pushing hard for the 2030 final, banking on its new $12bn, 115,000-seat Hassan II stadium near Casablanca as Spain lobbies for the match at Madrid’s Bernabéu or Barcelona’s Camp Nou. Phosphate & Agribusiness: OCP Nutricrops and Koch Ag & Energy Solutions signed to create a 50/50 joint venture at Jorf Fertilizers Company I in Lasfar, adding up to 1.2m tons/year capacity and targeting global—especially North American—fertilizer reliability. AI for Agriculture: Morocco-based OCP Africa and Ground Truth Analytics are linked to a Nigeria MoU for satellite- and AI-driven crop monitoring, aiming to strengthen food security planning. Logistics & Trade: Casablanca port congestion is reported to be driving delays and higher transport costs for firms. Western Sahara Legal Pressure: A Sahrawi working group condemned filming parts of Nolan’s “The Odyssey” in occupied Dakhla, saying it risks normalizing Morocco’s occupation under international law. World Cup Spillover for Morocco’s Food Service: Moroccan cafés and restaurants saw a short-term World Cup boost, but owners warn it won’t fix structural cost and tax pressures.

Morocco-France Strategic Reset: Rabat and Paris used their 15th high-level meeting in Rabat to deepen cooperation across politics, infrastructure and energy, with France reiterating support for Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara and both sides framing Africa as a shared priority. Digital & AI Skills: Morocco’s Ministry of Digital Transition and Capgemini Maroc signed an AI development MoU to boost public-sector and academic AI skills, support startups via the Jazari Institute, and accelerate AI use cases under Digital Morocco 2030. Maritime & Logistics Ambition: A new look at Morocco’s Atlantic gateway argues Tanger Med’s role is expanding beyond transshipment into a broader global logistics platform, with the Strait of Gibraltar’s chokepoint dynamics underscoring the stakes for trade. Agriculture & Rural Health: Coverage highlights how “invisible infrastructure” in rural Morocco—sanitation, cooperatives and access to services—directly shapes public health outcomes, tying farming to wellbeing. Gaza Reconstruction Update: Reports say the US-backed “Board of Peace” scaled Gaza rebuilding to a limited Rafah pilot, with Moroccan officers discussed for an International Stabilisation Force and logistics work near Kerem Shalom. Industry Watch: Morocco’s apparel growth is reported alongside a persistent textile gap, while other regional manufacturing stories underline how Chinese imports are pressuring producers.

AI for Public Services: Morocco’s Ministry of Digital Transition and Administration Reform signed an MoU with Capgemini Maroc to build AI skills and identify concrete AI use cases for faster adoption in public administration, aligned with Digital Morocco 2030 and the “AI Made in Morocco” roadmap. Digital Trust & Media Safety: A Moroccan Observatory report says World Cup 2026 boosted Morocco’s visibility but also intensified hostile digital campaigns, with AI-generated fake content and manipulated posts spreading faster during the tournament. Payments Push: Morocco will cut card payment interchange fees from Oct. 1 (with a lower cap for domestic payments and preferential treatment for some merchants), though experts warn the fee cut alone may not shift merchants away from cash. Energy & Infrastructure: Morocco’s $25B Atlantic gas pipeline segment linking West Africa to Europe moves forward after engineering studies and pre-construction preparations, including compressor and receiving stations along the Moroccan route. Morocco-France Partnership: The 15th Morocco-France High-Level Meeting in Rabat signed multiple cooperation agreements and reaffirmed France’s support for Morocco’s Sahara position, while also prioritizing Africa-focused collaboration. Sahara Film Backlash: Calls for boycotts and renewed debate followed reports that Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey” filmed scenes in Moroccan-occupied Western Sahara, drawing criticism over legitimacy and consent. Industrial Outlook: Morocco’s apparel boom is reported alongside a persistent textile gap, highlighting pressure to close upstream capacity for sustained manufacturing growth.

Morocco–France Deal Push: At the 15th High Level Meeting in Rabat, Morocco and France signed multiple cooperation agreements spanning feminist foreign policy, water financing, and the Kenitra–Marrakech high-speed rail, while also advancing a major electricity interconnection plan (“Mediterranean Bridge”) with a call for expressions of interest aimed at exporting renewable power and linking value chains. Defense & Security Ties: Morocco and France also signed a technical arrangement and memorandum on defense industry, alongside fresh commitments to deepen security cooperation against terrorism, organised crime and drug trafficking, with a comprehensive security agreement expected. Trade & Exports: Eurostat data shows Morocco’s exports to the EU rose to €2.5bn in May, while imports from the bloc totaled €2.8bn. Southern Provinces Investment: A new BDO Maroc guide highlights the southern provinces as a fast-growing investment hub for logistics, industry and green energy, driven by infrastructure and improved regulatory conditions. Energy Projects Watch: France’s Engie-linked Western Sahara desalination and farmland expansion drew condemnation from Sahrawi groups, while Reuters reports Trafigura has backed out of an Angola–DRC–Zambia power transmission line.

Franco-Moroccan Defense & Security: Morocco and France signed a technical arrangement and a memorandum on defense industry cooperation in Rabat, as Paris praised “unprecedented operational successes” in joint security efforts and both sides moved toward a comprehensive security agreement. Energy & Infrastructure Deals: The 15th Morocco-France High-Level Meeting also produced a wide package of cooperation agreements, including an electricity interconnection project aimed at exporting renewable power from Morocco to France, plus finance and rail infrastructure support. Southern Provinces as an Investment Hub: A new BDO Maroc guide highlights how Morocco’s southern regions are positioning for logistics and industrial growth toward West Africa, backed by ports, airports, industrial zones, telecom upgrades, and expanding renewable energy and green hydrogen. Rail Upgrade Funding: The AfDB approved €205m to help Morocco complete the Kenitra–Marrakech high-speed rail line and advance its broader rail strategy. Water Security in Khouribga: ONEE launched a 365m dirham program to reinforce drinking-water supply, including new pipelines, reservoir capacity, and expanded demineralization at Ait Massoud. Mining Value-Chain Push: Coverage points to rapid scaling in copper and silver projects, with Tizert copper and Zgounder silver driving output growth and plans for more local processing. Morocco’s Economy: Morocco’s Q2 2026 growth hit 4.8% y/y, led by agriculture, while manufacturing remained weak amid softer textile, chemical, and electrical performance. FIFA Media Infrastructure: Morocco began building the Casablanca International Broadcasting Center for World Cup 2030, designed to route live audio/video feeds globally.

Franco-Moroccan Diplomacy: French PM Sébastien Lecornu landed in Rabat to co-chair the 15th Morocco–France High-Level Meeting with Aziz Akhannouch, signaling a deeper reset after France recognized Morocco’s Western Sahara position. Cyber & Security: A major international investigation alleges Morocco used Pegasus spyware via a local intermediary to target journalists, activists and political figures, renewing scrutiny of surveillance practices. Agriculture & Food Security: Morocco is facing the highest pressure from a desert locust upsurge in Northwest Africa, with large-scale survey and control operations underway. Trade & Shipping: A new weekly merchant shipping route links Spain, Portugal and Morocco, operated by CMA CGM, boosting regional connectivity. Energy & Mining Power: Trafigura has withdrawn from an Angola–DRC–Zambia hydropower transmission plan aimed at powering copper and cobalt mines, leaving the project in limbo. Hospitality Litigation: A British widow is suing a Marrakech five-star hotel over a 2023 spa fire death, seeking over £500,000 in damages. Film & Controversy: Calls to boycott Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey grow over claims it was filmed in occupied Western Sahara, while the production continues to draw global attention. Mobility Deal: Uber announced an acquisition offer for Delivery Hero, expanding its delivery footprint across 99 markets.