Morocco’s Aerospace Ambitions Take Flight
Morocco is making significant strides toward achieving a historic milestone in its aerospace industry. Industry and Trade Minister Riad Mezzour has expressed confidence that the country is getting closer to producing a fully Moroccan-made airplane. This ambitious goal is supported by growing local manufacturing capabilities, particularly in the production of complex aircraft components such as engines.
During a presentation of the ministry’s 2026 budget to the House of Representatives, Mezzour highlighted the impressive performance of Morocco’s aerospace sector. Last year alone, the sector generated exports worth MAD 25 billion. In the first nine months of this year, exports reached MAD 21 billion, indicating strong growth potential for the remainder of 2025.
This progress comes on the heels of a major announcement from the minister last year, when he outlined Morocco’s plan to assemble a complete aircraft within the country. This would mark a historic first for Morocco, showcasing the nation’s growing industrial capabilities.
Mezzour clarified that while the plane will not be entirely Moroccan-made—no country produces every component of an aircraft—the focus is on assembling the aircraft locally. This approach mirrors the way cars are manufactured and exported from the Kingdom, emphasizing the importance of local expertise and infrastructure.
The minister emphasized that ongoing investments in aircraft engine production could significantly boost export figures. He noted that these investments could potentially double current export levels, reaching up to MAD 50 billion. The planned production capacity includes 350 aircraft engines per year, each valued at $14 million on the international market.
“By a simple calculation, Morocco could earn MAD 35 billion from exporting this engine alone, thanks to a single factory,” Mezzour stated. He added that this investment not only strengthens confidence in Moroccan industry but also sets the stage for producing more complex items in the future.
A Promising Future for Moroccan Aerospace Exports
Mezzour stressed that the numbers indicate a bright future for Moroccan aerospace exports. The sector has the potential to rival or even surpass phosphate exports, which have long been a key driver of the economy. Additionally, the progress in aircraft assembly marks a symbolic step toward assembling the country’s first fully Moroccan-built airplane.
The development of the aerospace sector is not just about economic growth; it represents a shift in Morocco’s industrial landscape. By focusing on high-value manufacturing, the country is positioning itself as a competitive player in the global aerospace market.
With continued investment and strategic planning, Morocco is well on its way to realizing its vision of becoming a hub for aerospace innovation. The journey toward a fully Moroccan-made airplane is not only a technical challenge but also a testament to the nation’s determination to build a sustainable and diversified economy.
As the industry continues to grow, the implications for employment, technological advancement, and international trade are profound. The success of this initiative could inspire further developments in other sectors, reinforcing Morocco’s role as a dynamic force in the global economy.