Morocco Pushes Digital Payments, Targeting Small Shopkeepers in Informal Economy

The integration of "Moul l’hanout" into the electronic payment system constitutes a decisive turning point, given the vital role this category plays in the informal economy, and its potential as a fundamental lever to broaden the base of financial inclusion and modernize commercial transactions in neighborhoods and popular markets, according to observers.

The expansion of electronic payments is part of the national strategy to reduce cash transactions, due to their consequences on tax evasion and the difficulty in controlling financial flows. It also aims to facilitate daily commercial operations and provide merchants with digital tools contributing to the development of their activities and strengthening their access to the banking system.

The success of this reform undoubtedly involves overcoming certain challenges: resistance to change from some merchants, and low digital literacy among certain categories. But with political will and strong institutional support, these obstacles could be overcome, allowing Morocco to initiate a real transition towards an integrated digital economy.

Moreover, the Moroccan government, in coordination with several actors in the banking and financial sector, has launched a set of innovative initiatives. These include, among others, the provision of electronic payment terminals (EPT) at subsidized prices, the simplification of administrative procedures to join the system, as well as awareness and information campaigns aimed at both merchants and consumers.