Morocco advances its video game industry with new agreements

Morocco is taking significant strides to enhance its video game industry through two pivotal partnership agreements aimed at fostering sector development in the North African nation.

These agreements represent a crucial milestone in the country's ambition to cultivate this promising sector.

The first agreement, forged between the Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication and the Ministry of Higher Education, Scientific Research, and Innovation, is set to initiate specialized video game development programs within Moroccan public universities. These initiatives are designed to confer technical university diplomas alongside bachelor's and master's degrees, equipping students with the necessary skills for careers in the evolving field of video gaming. Additionally, the agreement includes the establishment of "Game Labs" within university premises.

Universities situated in the Rabat-Sale-Kenitra region are slated to debut these training programs in September 2025, with plans for a nationwide rollout in the 2026-2027 academic year.

In tandem, the second agreement was established between the Ministry of Communication and the Office of Vocational Training and Employment Promotion, focusing on the implementation of vocational training programs. This initiative aims to launch three specialized training tracks tailored to emerging professions, including e-sport caster, e-sport streamer, and video game laboratory specialist.

This collaboration seeks to align educational offerings with the job market's evolving demands, as the video game industry presents over 150 distinct career paths. Currently, the global video game market generates a staggering $300 billion annually, underscoring its vast potential.

Morocco's proactive approach includes attracting foreign investment, fostering the establishment of national companies and startups, and nurturing local talent in the gaming sector. In a recent partnership with the French embassy, the Moroccan government is working to bolster local gaming initiatives and enhance the country's standing in the global gaming landscape. This initiative promises tailored support for Moroccan video game production companies, addressing their specific needs.

In March, the Moroccan government approved a new decree aimed at formulating strategies to expand the video game industry, further solidifying the Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication's commitment to this burgeoning field.