Morocco's Publishing Industry Transforms with Digital Focus

Morocco's publishing industry is experiencing a transformative shift, significantly influenced by the rise of digital publications, particularly in literature, humanities, and social sciences. Despite facing challenges in production, distribution, and circulation, the industry is revitalizing through the concerted efforts of public institutions, universities, and cultural associations.

These initiatives are diversifying Morocco's literary and academic landscape, with digital formats becoming essential for disseminating knowledge and cultural content.

A recent report from King Abdulaziz Al Saud, published in April 2025, outlines the state of publishing in Morocco for the 2023-2024 period. It reveals that approximately 8.97% of the country's total publishing output consists of digital works, with 6.3% being exclusive to digital formats. A significant portion of these publications focuses on academic and scholarly content, particularly in the humanities and social sciences.

One notable finding of the report is the role of academic theses in Morocco’s publishing sphere. During the reporting period, academic theses constituted 1.18% of all publications, including 37 doctoral theses and one master’s thesis, highlighting the substantial academic contribution to the country's literary and scholarly output.

The report also emphasizes the contributions of public institutions, ministries, and cultural associations, which collectively published 95 works, while universities produced 31 publications. Cultural and professional associations were responsible for 59 works. This collaboration between various sectors demonstrates a collective commitment to advancing the publishing industry in Morocco.

Language distribution remains a crucial aspect, with French-language titles dominating digital publications. The report indicates 89 works published in French, followed by 72 titles in Arabic and 41 in English. Arabic-language digital publications accounted for about 35.64% of the total, with public institutions and research entities being the primary contributors.

In the realm of digital publishing, economic and social studies have emerged as the leading focus areas. The Center for Policies for New Southern Africa contributed 48.51% of digital publications in economic studies, while social studies represented approximately 25% of the digital output. Noteworthy contributions in social studies stemmed from institutions like the High Council for Education, Training, and Scientific Research, underscoring the significance of academic and policy-driven research in this evolving landscape.

Despite ongoing challenges, individual initiatives continue to foster growth in Morocco's publishing industry. These efforts are crucial in shaping a vibrant and evolving literary and academic environment, with digital publications playing an integral role in broadening access to knowledge and research. The report offers valuable insights into the industry’s development, emphasizing the critical importance of academic theses and the increasing prominence of digital formats in Morocco's publishing scene.