Morocco-Senegal: Towards a New Roadmap to Strengthen Industrial and Trade Cooperation
Strengthening industrial and commercial cooperation between Morocco and Senegal was at the heart of discussions between Moroccan Minister of Industry and Commerce, Ryad Mezzour, and his Senegalese counterpart, Serigne Gueye Diop, this Monday in Rabat. These talks were part of the 15th session of the Joint Higher Commission for the Moroccan-Senegalese partnership and allowed both parties to agree on a new roadmap for bilateral cooperation.
A Roadmap Focused on Industry and SMEs
The new joint strategy outlines several priority areas, including standardization, the development of industrial zones, and the enhancement of technical capabilities. The Senegalese minister emphasized the historical context of relations between the two countries and Dakar’s desire to harness Moroccan experience, particularly in industrial infrastructure, business support, and training and qualification of human resources.
The discussions also addressed support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which represent 97% of Senegal’s economic fabric. In this regard, agreements are expected to be made between the agencies responsible for SMEs in both countries, as well as between training and mentorship organizations.
Commercial Cooperation and Resource Development
The exchanges covered fiscal policies related to industrial zones and investments, as well as the development of bilateral trade, with a focus on processed and manufactured goods. The Senegalese minister also expressed his country’s interest in Moroccan experience in the phosphate sector and announced upcoming visits, including to the Office Chérifien des Phosphates, to draw inspiration from Morocco’s model for leveraging this strategic resource.
A Momentum Supported by Royal Vision
For his part, Ryad Mezzour recalled that this initiative aligns with royal directives aimed at strengthening cooperation and integration among African countries. He underscored the mutual commitment of both nations to develop training, skills, and industrial integration under a South-South cooperation framework, in coherence with the continent’s major structural projects.
Thus, the 15th session of the Joint Higher Commission serves as a key platform to promote strategic sectoral projects across areas such as agriculture, energy, trade, and the digital economy, bolstering the strategic cooperation between Morocco and Senegal.
