Spain cannot be left behind
Emmanuel Macron's recent visit to Morocco, which culminated in the signing of important economic and cooperation agreements in strategic areas such as renewable energies, water and the railway network, marks a clear intention to strengthen the French presence in the Maghreb country.
These agreements include investments by French companies in large-scale projects, such as the construction of a desalination plant in Rabat and the extension of the high-speed railway line to Marrakech. For Spain, this renewed French interest in Morocco is a wake-up call on the need for a more competitive and coordinated strategy in the Moroccan market.
Proposals to Boost Spanish Presence in Morocco
1. Boost Investments in Green Infrastructure and Renewable Energies: The Spanish administration should facilitate the access of Spanish companies to the Moroccan market, especially in sectors where there is a great potential such as solar energy, wind energy and green hydrogen. The signing of specific bilateral agreements on renewable energies, similar to the recent pacts between Morocco and French companies, would help Spain to strengthen its presence and compete with other European and Asian investors.
Promote the competitiveness of “Marca España”: The image of Spanish companies in Morocco should be associated with innovation, quality and sustainability. The Spanish administration can launch campaigns to enhance the visibility of “Brand Spain” in key sectors. In addition, it would be essential to strengthen the reputation at the international level, avoiding situations that could damage the image and confidence in Spanish products and services.
3. Public-Private Partnerships for Strategic Projects: Collaboration between the Spanish public and private sectors could facilitate investment in key infrastructures such as transportation, health and education in Morocco. These projects can not only open markets for Spanish companies, but also build long-term relationships with Moroccan institutions, aligning with the country's development strategies.
4. Create a Dynamic Commercial Cooperation Environment: It is important for the Spanish government to support companies with tools that facilitate their adaptation to the Moroccan market, encouraging trade missions and access to export financing programs. Economic diplomacy should focus on building efficient and secure communication channels, thus supporting the transfer of knowledge and technology.
To take full advantage of Morocco's potential, which is increasingly strengthening its attractiveness as a business hub in North Africa, Spain will need to act quickly.
These steps, together with a genuine commitment to promote and enhance the “Spain Brand”, can cement a competitive presence vis-à-vis countries such as France, which are expanding their strategic ties in the region.