Morocco’s Aerospace Industry Poised for Recovery After COVID-19 Setback

Morocco has set up clusters for all aerospace parts manufacturers supplying Boeing, Airbus and Safran. Currently, Morocco manufactures 38% of an aircraft, although operators demand more. However, the health crisis has slowed down the demand from aircraft manufacturers, forcing countries to ban flights. This situation has had a negative impact on the activity of Moroccan aerospace suppliers, as exports fell to $1.3 billion in 2020, compared to $1.9 billion in 2019.

However, Moroccan operators have held up well, compared to those in other countries, said GIMAS, the association of Moroccan aerospace manufacturers, to Reuters, noting that the sector is currently working to put in place a new industrial plan, in order to prepare parts suppliers for highly technological fields and carbon-free production, citing Airbus’ decision to produce hydrogen-powered aircraft as an example.

Moreover, last month, the French Piston opened a new factory in Morocco for the manufacture of aircraft engine parts requiring advanced technology and skilled labor. This sends a message of confidence in Morocco’s potential as an industry hub.

It should be recalled that the Kingdom, which has invested in the training of aerospace engineers, currently has nearly 140 aerospace companies employing 17,000 people.