Steel: Moroccan Demand Could Reach 2.8 Million Tons by 2026
The Moroccan steel market may experience a new phase of growth in 2026. According to a recent analysis by the specialized center GMK Center, the national demand for steel products could increase by 7 to 8%, reaching between 2.75 and 2.82 million tons.
However, this estimate represents a market projection rather than an already recorded consumption level. If this trend holds, Morocco may surpass the threshold of 3 million tons of steel demand in 2027 for the first time.
Construction Remains the Primary Driver of the Market
The construction and public works sector is expected to continue playing a central role in this evolution. According to GMK Center’s analysis, construction accounts for between 60 and 65% of Morocco’s finished steel product demand.
The pace of major infrastructure projects, construction sites, and public investments will be crucial in confirming the expected growth in 2026.
This strong dependence on construction also means that the evolution of the steel market will be closely tied to the timeline of major works undertaken in the Kingdom.
Reinforced Bars and Long Products at the Heart of Demand
The structure of the Moroccan market particularly favors long products, widely used in the construction sector. Reinforced bars, wire rods, and profiles make up a significant portion of the demand.
Flat products are more aligned with the needs of the industry and various manufacturing sectors. Consequently, the growth of these two categories may follow different paces, which will be important for assessing the robustness of the projected overall growth.
Surpassing 2.8 million tons in 2026 will depend not only on the volume of major construction projects but also on the capacity of manufacturers to meet market needs.
An Increase in Demand Does Not Necessarily Mean More Imports
An important point to monitor is that the increase in domestic consumption will not automatically translate into a corresponding rise in imports.
Part of the additional demand could be fulfilled by Moroccan producers based on their available capacity and the types of steel required.
Conversely, certain product ranges that are underproduced locally may require more external supplies. Therefore, imports will need to be analyzed in conjunction with the production and sales of Moroccan steel mills.
Imports Will Provide an Initial Indicator of Trends
Customs statistics for 2026 will be particularly important for assessing the realization of GMK Center’s forecast. Major suppliers to the Moroccan market include Spain, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and China.
However, imports do not solely correspond to final consumption. Some of the foreign purchases may also directly supply the Moroccan industrial sector.
Comparing imported volumes with locally produced amounts will help determine whether market growth is primarily absorbed by the steel producers operating in Morocco or if it is also leading to increased reliance on foreign suppliers.
The 3 Million Ton Threshold Expected in 2027
Should the anticipated growth continue, the Moroccan market could exceed 3 million tons of steel demand in 2027.
Such a level would represent a significant milestone for national steel production. However, this outlook will depend on several factors, including the continuation of infrastructure investments, activity in the construction sector, local production capacities, and trends in international prices.
Upcoming production, sales, and import statistics will thus verify whether the forecasted increase in 2026 actually materializes and if the Moroccan market is indeed heading towards the symbolic threshold of three million tons.
