Ryad Mezzour: Morocco remains committed to the AfCFTA

Morocco remains steadfast in its support for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), reaffirmed by Minister of Industry and Trade, Ryad Mezzour, during the 57th session of the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) and the Conference of African Ministers of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development in Addis Ababa.

Describing AfCFTA as more than just a legal framework, Mezzour emphasized its significance as a key pillar of the Agenda 2063, promising employment opportunities, dignity, and hope for African nations. As the session’s president, he underscored the need for bold measures to ensure the agreement's successful implementation amid global economic shifts.

Since rejoining the African Union in 2017, Morocco has acted as a bridge between North and South, blending tradition with innovation and ambition with action. Mezzour stressed the importance of Africa transitioning from an exporter of raw materials to a producer of high-value goods. He urged African nations to develop competitive value chains, citing Morocco’s strategic industrial policies that have positioned it as a global hub for fertilizers, supplying over 20% of the world's demand.

Morocco has also established itself as an African leader in automobile manufacturing, with projects like the Morocco-DRC-Zambia electric mobility initiative showcasing the continent’s potential in the global electric vehicle market. He emphasized that Africa must leverage its natural resources through sustainable industrialization, increased competitiveness, and industrial sovereignty.

The AfCFTA, he insisted, should be green, inclusive, and fair. He highlighted Morocco’s commitment to sustainable development, with renewable energy accounting for 45% of its energy mix. The country stands ready to share its expertise in renewable energy and digital transformation, which has modernized public services and empowered startups.

Infrastructure gaps cost Africa around 2% of its annual GDP, Mezzour noted, advocating for an AfCFTA Infrastructure Fund to finance ports, railways, and road networks for better market integration. Partnerships with financial institutions like the African Development Bank and Casablanca Finance City could attract private investment to bridge these gaps.

Agricultural sustainability, particularly climate-smart farming, should be a priority to safeguard farmers and ensure women and youth play a leading role in SMEs within the AfCFTA framework. Morocco was unanimously elected to chair the 57th session of the ECA, reaffirming its leadership in Africa’s economic transformation.

Under the theme "Advancing the Implementation of the AfCFTA: Proposals for Transformative Strategic Actions," the session also addressed digitization, technology, food security, and energy transition. Looking ahead, Morocco will host the 58th session of the ECA in March 2026, continuing its commitment to Africa’s economic growth.