Morocco Pushes Digital Payment Revolution for Small Shops Ahead of Major Sporting Events

Speaking on Monday on behalf of Minister Ryad Mezzour before parliament, Hejira stressed the urgency of modernizing local commerce, in anticipation of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2030 World Cup. It is in this perspective that he called for equipping small businesses with electronic payment terminals (EPT).

"The widespread use of electronic payment methods will only facilitate exchanges and contribute to increasing the income of these merchants," he affirmed, insisting on the responsibility of the State to protect small businesses from the fierce competition of convenience stores and large retail chains. "It is our duty to support the small merchant so that he remains competitive in a rapidly changing market," added the official.

The member of the government also specified that this necessary transition towards digitalization aims to preserve the economic balance of neighborhoods, promote financial inclusion, ensure greater transparency of transactions, and meet global requirements.