Morocco Showcases Industrial Acceleration Zones at 57th UNECA Conference
Morocco’s Minister of Industry and Trade, Riyad Mezzour, presented the country’s successful experience in establishing industrial acceleration zones at the 57th UNECA session. Key factors for success include the delegation of authority to developers, quality infrastructure, and a focus on export-oriented industries. The Moroccan model is viewed as a potential framework for other African nations.
At the 57th session of the Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), Morocco’s Minister of Industry and Trade, Riyad Mezzour, discussed the nation’s successful establishment of industrial acceleration zones. This round table on special economic zones, initiated by Morocco, allowed Mezzour to share insights related to infrastructure quality and management delegation, which are crucial for the effectiveness of these zones.
In his address, Minister Mezzour emphasized that the success of these special economic zones stems from granting complete delegation of authority to their developers. This delegation empowers developers to manage construction and economic activities, adhering strictly to established regulations that deter corruption and foster international investment confidence.
Mezzour provided a notable example of a factory in Morocco, which utilizes energy equivalent to that of a city with 500,000 residents and consumes water comparable to that of a town of 100,000. He revealed that his ministry allocates 40% of its budget to enhance industrial infrastructure, covering essential services such as electricity and water without burdening investors with these costs.
The Minister insisted that special economic zones should prioritize export-oriented industries, asserting that at least 80% of their activities should focus on exports. Additionally, he stressed the necessity of reliable internet connectivity for businesses operating within these zones to thrive.
Other participants praised Morocco’s success regarding industrial acceleration zones, commending the strategic investments made in infrastructure. They suggested that Morocco’s experience could serve as a model for African nations considering the implementation of their own special economic zones. Remarkably, Morocco was elected to preside over the 57th ECA Conference, and it is set to host the 58th conference in March 2026.
Morocco’s efforts in establishing industrial acceleration zones have garnered attention as a successful model for African nations. The delegation of authority to developers, robust infrastructure investments, focus on export-oriented industries, and vital internet connectivity emerge as key factors in ensuring the success of these zones. The Moroccan experience serves as a potential framework for other countries aiming to develop special economic zones, with the upcoming conferences further highlighting Morocco’s leadership role in African economic development.
Original Source: www.maroc.ma
