Morocco Aims to Become Aviation Hub, Attracting Investors with Skilled Workforce

Morocco is positioning itself to become a major player in the global aviation industry, aiming to attract investors seeking to diversify their supply chains. The North African kingdom is among countries vying for contracts with big manufacturers like Boeing and Airbus, as they outsource design, production, and maintenance to countries around the world.

Morocco's efforts to grow its $2 billion aerospace industry are part of a larger push to transform its largely agrarian economy. The country has implemented measures such as providing subsidies to aircraft manufacturers to support the expansion of the sector. Morocco currently has 130 active aerospace companies, with parts ranging from wings to fuselages produced in the country.

One of Morocco's key advantages is its available and affordable workforce. Unlike some European countries facing labor shortages in the industry, Morocco has a skilled labor pool, with 42% of the aerospace workforce being women, a higher proportion than European and North American counterparts. The Moroccan government and industry have collaborated to train workers at the Institute for Aeronautics Professions (IMA) in Casablanca, ensuring a steady supply of qualified talent for investors.

Why this matters: As global demand for air travel increases and manufacturers face supply chain challenges and labor shortages in Europe, Morocco's positioning as an aviation hub with a skilled and affordable workforce could make it an attractive destination for aerospace companies seeking to diversify their operations. The country's efforts to grow its aerospace industry could also play a significant role in transforming its economy and creating new opportunities for its population.

Companies like Safran Aircraft Engines have already established repair plants in Morocco, servicing aircraft from airlines around the world. Despite challenges facing the global aviation industry, such as pandemic-induced delays and supply chain disruptions, Morocco remains resolute in its goal to become a major player in the aerospace sector. "The necessity of the aerospace industry is to have qualified personnel," said Hamid Benbrahim El Andaloussi, president of the Moroccan Aerospace Industries Association (GIMAS). "This is what builds our ecosystem and our credibility."

Key Takeaways

• Morocco aims to become a major player in the global aviation industry.
• Morocco's $2 billion aerospace industry is part of its economic transformation.
• Morocco has an available and affordable skilled workforce, with 42% women.
• Morocco's position as an aviation hub with skilled labor makes it attractive.
• Companies like Safran have already established repair plants in Morocco.