Morocco’s Events Sector Struggles to Recover Amid Ongoing Pandemic Challenges

This involves compensation for job loss for the months of January to June 2021, tax relief on professional tax for the 2020 and 2021 fiscal years, and extension of the deadline for cancellation of penalties decided by the CNSS and the DGI.

After many months of unemployment, caterers have resumed their activities (wedding ceremonies, funerals, family celebrations...) since the end of May. Professionals’ order books are currently overloaded. "I tried to find a party hall for August in Casablanca for clients but everything is booked," says a professional.

Among the conditions for a recovery in the sector, there are gatherings and activities allowed in closed spaces for less than 50 people and in open spaces for less than 100 people. In case of exceeding this number, an authorization from the local authorities is required. Constraints accepted by both clients and service providers who all need this type of event.

The recovery is a breath of fresh air for caterers, but also for the small trades that revolve around them. According to a study carried out by the profession in Souss Massa, the caterers’ ecosystem brings together 27 other activities. From the importer of various luxury products, to the craftsman making slippers, traditional clothes or copperware, many depend on the sector.

However, it will still take time to erase the losses incurred due to the health crisis. Professionals estimate that it will be quite difficult to get back on track. According to Jamal Alahiane, president of the Moroccan Union of Owners and Managers of Party Halls (UMPGSF), the authorities must further support the players for the survival of the sector.