Riyad Mezzour, Morocco’s Minister of Industry and Trade, presented the nation’s successful industrial acceleration zones model at the 57th UNECA conference. He highlighted key factors such as robust infrastructure, management delegation to developers, and a focus on export-oriented industries. The Moroccan approach is viewed as a potential model for other African countries seeking to establish their own special economic zones.
At the 57th session of the UNECA and Conference of African Ministers of Finance, Planning and Economic Development in Addis Ababa, Morocco’s Minister of Industry and Trade, Riyad Mezzour, presented the country’s experience in establishing industrial acceleration zones. His remarks were made during a roundtable discussion focused on special economic zones in Africa, which Morocco chaired.
Minister Mezzour emphasized that the success of these zones is attributed to high-quality infrastructure and the complete delegation of management responsibilities to the developers. This arrangement allows developers to oversee construction and economic activities, ensuring adherence to stringent regulations aimed at minimizing corruption.
He provided a practical example, mentioning a factory in Morocco that consumes significant amounts of electricity and water, comparable to the needs of large towns. Additionally, he noted that his department allocates 40% of its budget to enhancing industrial infrastructure necessary for attracting investors.
Mezzour also highlighted that special economic zones should prioritize export-oriented industries, with the expectation that at least 80% of their activities are geared towards export. Furthermore, he underscored the crucial role of high-speed internet connectivity for businesses operating within these zones.
Other participants at the roundtable acknowledged the effectiveness of Morocco’s industrial acceleration zones, attributing it to strategic infrastructure investments. They expressed that Morocco’s approach could serve as a replicable model for other African nations seeking to establish similar economic zones.
Morocco has been unanimously chosen to chair the current conference, with the next session planned to take place in March 2026, furthering its commitment to economic development in Africa.
In conclusion, Morocco’s experience with industrial acceleration zones illustrates a robust model for economic development through strategic infrastructure and management delegation. By emphasizing export-oriented activities and providing essential resources, Morocco aims to attract global investment. This framework may serve as an instructive example for other African nations aspiring to enhance their economic capabilities through special economic zones.
Original Source: www.maroc.ma
