The year 2024 marks another milestone in the growth of Morocco’s aerospace sector. Driven by strong economic performance, remarkable technological advancements, and the achievement of strategic objectives under the Industrial Acceleration Plan (PAI), the industry reaffirms its position as a cornerstone of the national economy. Here is a detailed overview of the key highlights from this exceptional year.
Double-Digit Growth
Morocco’s aerospace sector recorded double-digit growth in 2024, solidifying its role as an economic driver. Exports surpassed the historic threshold of 30 billion dirhams, reflecting a 15% increase compared to the previous year. This momentum has been primarily fueled by:
- Market diversification, with strengthened exports not only to traditional partners in Europe but also to the United States and Asia.
- Increased local production within manufacturing units located in Casablanca Midparc and the Tanger Free Zone, where productivity has improved thanks to investments in automation and robotics.
- Integration into global value chains, with Morocco becoming a key supplier of critical components such as nacelles, landing systems, and machined parts.
These impressive figures not only reflect Morocco’s attractiveness as an industrial hub but also its ability to integrate into complex and competitive global value chains.
An Industry Under Transformation
In 2024, Morocco adopted cutting-edge technologies, positioning itself among the global innovators in the aerospace sector. Several advancements deserve recognition, including:
- Additive manufacturing, which has enabled Moroccan companies to use 3D printing to produce complex components, reducing production costs and lead times.
- Process digitalization, where factories improved their efficiency by adopting digital solutions and integrating the Internet of Things (IoT) for real-time monitoring.
- Innovations in composite materials, reinforcing Morocco’s expertise in designing lightweight and durable parts, meeting the growing demand for eco-efficient aircraft.
Furthermore, Morocco contributed to major international projects, particularly in developing equipment for future hydrogen-powered aircraft, a promising technology for decarbonizing air transport.
The Industrial Acceleration Plan: A Winning Strategy
The Industrial Acceleration Plan (PAI) 2014–2020, extended as part of Morocco’s ambitions for 2030, continues to yield significant results. In 2024, key milestones were achieved, including:
- Job creation, with the aerospace sector now employing over 25,000 people, experiencing 8% annual growth in 2024. Specialized training, particularly at the Institute of Aeronautical Professions (IMA), has met the rising demand for skilled labor.
- Skills development, with over 38% of the sector’s workforce now highly qualified, a direct result of training programs and knowledge transfers facilitated by international partners.
- Increased investor attractiveness, as several global leaders announced new investments in Morocco in 2024, particularly in aeronautical maintenance (MRO) and drone production.
The evaluation of the PAI also highlights Morocco’s progress in diversifying its offerings. Beyond component manufacturing, the country is now positioned in higher value-added activities such as engineering and design.
Promising Prospects
Building on these achievements, Morocco’s aerospace sector envisions a promising future. Priorities for the coming years include:
- Strengthening existing ecosystems and creating new specialized hubs.
- Accelerating the adoption of green technologies, aligning the sector with international sustainability goals.
- Consolidating global value chains by increasing the share of strategic components produced locally.
The year 2024 confirms that Morocco is far more than a regional player in aerospace: it is a model of ambition and innovation. With strong foundations and a clear vision, the country continues to write an industrial success story that inspires far beyond its borders. By maintaining its focus on innovation and sustained growth, Morocco’s aerospace sector is charting a path towards a decade of prosperity, strengthening its position on the global stage.
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