Alibaba Launches First African Site in Morocco, Eyeing Export Growth

Alibaba now has its first site in Africa. The launch event held on December 18 brought together representatives of the Chinese e-commerce giant, Moroccan companies and representatives of government agencies involved in trade and exports. On this occasion, Giancarlo Pastano, Alibaba’s director for Europe, stressed the importance of supporting Moroccan small and medium-sized enterprises and helping them increase their exports to international markets, particularly in North America, where most of the platform’s buyers are located, reports Asharq Business.

Why choose Morocco? Morocco was chosen for this expansion due to its industrial diversity, high-quality products and strategic location, as well as its advanced infrastructure, Pastano explained. And to add: the kingdom has a "diversified industry and products of good reputation that are in demand on the international market, in addition to a strategic location and advanced infrastructure, such as the Tanger Med port, which is considered the first container port in the Mediterranean region".

To support its operations in Morocco, Alibaba has partnered with the local company Clementia. Moroccan companies can now create digital showcases on Alibaba, which will allow them to connect more easily with buyers around the world and increase their export opportunities, welcomes its CEO, Reda Chraibi.

Currently, about thirty Moroccan companies are using the Alibaba platform. With the launch of the service, this number should increase considerably. With more than 48 million active buyers and more than 200 countries and regions represented, Alibaba offers a wide range of services, both for businesses and individuals.