Moroccan Textiles: Exports Decline Again in 2026
Moroccan Textile and Leather Exports Face External Demand Slowdown
Moroccan textile and leather exports continue to feel the pressure from a decline in external demand. By the end of August 2026, the sector’s foreign sales amounted to 28.7 billion dirhams, marking a 5.6% decrease compared to the previous year. This follows drops of 0.7% in 2024 and 4.2% in 2025 during the same period, resulting in a third consecutive decline for the sector.
This development stands in contrast to the overall dynamic of Moroccan goods exports, which increased by 8.7% by the end of August, reaching 334.9 billion dirhams. The textile and apparel sector is therefore moving against the tide of several major industrial segments, particularly the automotive sector, which saw its exports rise by 14.5%, totaling 116.1 billion dirhams.
Exports of 28.7 Billion Dirhams by End of August
Textile and leather exports reached precisely 28.729 billion dirhams, down from 30.442 billion dirhams a year earlier. This decline is not limited to a specific segment: clothing, hosiery, and footwear are all facing decreases in performance.
This situation arises in an international environment characterized by weaker demand and increased competition among major producing countries. Moroccan manufacturers now face simultaneous pressure on volumes, prices, and their ability to respond rapidly to buyer demands.
High Dependence on the European Market
The geographic concentration of markets is one of the main points of concern for the sector. Europe remains the primary market for Moroccan textiles and apparel, with France and Spain among the leading clients.
This proximity has long been a significant advantage for Morocco. The short distance to European markets enables manufacturers to offer shorter delivery times and integrate more easily into the production chains of major brands.
However, this dependence can also amplify the effects of a slowdown in European consumption. Household choices, energy costs, and economic uncertainties can weigh on demand for clothing and footwear, while Moroccan producers contend with competition from countries with lower production costs.
Manufacturers Confront New Demands
The pressure, however, is not solely on prices. International buyers now require greater flexibility, traceability, and speed while strengthening their environmental and social criteria.
Yet Morocco possesses several competitive advantages. Its proximity to Europe, port infrastructure, industrial expertise, and ability to respond quickly to orders remain significant assets.
The question now is to what extent can these advantages be transformed into competitive gains and an elevation in quality.
Diversifying Markets and Enhancing Integration
To reduce its vulnerability, the sector has a lever for geographical diversification. Expanding towards North America, the Middle East, and other African markets could help reduce the concentration of exports to a few European destinations.
Another significant challenge is industrial integration. Developing greater upstream capacity could lessen dependence on imported inputs and enhance control over the value chain.
Moreover, textiles continue to play a crucial role in the Moroccan industry. According to institutional data, the sector accounts for 27% of industrial jobs and 7% of industrial added value. With over 1,600 companies and more than 220,000 jobs, it remains a vital sector for employment and industrial activity.
Focusing on Innovation and Value Addition
The decline in exports raises questions that extend beyond mere commercial performance. The sector’s competitiveness also hinges on its ability to invest in automation, digitalization, training, and innovation.
Technical textiles, sustainable materials, recycling, and specialized products represent potential avenues to diversify offerings and increase the value captured by Moroccan enterprises.
The goal is gradually to move beyond a model primarily focused on subcontracting to develop more integrated capacities and higher value-added products.
A New Challenge for the Moroccan Sector
With three consecutive years of export declines by the end of August, the Moroccan textile and leather sectors face a significant challenge. While the figures alone do not indicate a definitive structural break, they do confirm the persistence of pressure on the sector’s export model.
Morocco retains advantages linked to its geographic position, infrastructure, and integration with European value chains. The challenge will now be to strengthen these assets through increased diversification, innovation, and industrial integration.
For the sector, the priority, therefore, is not just to recover lost export volumes but also to solidify a more competitive and lucrative position in global value chains.
