Trade Balance : Omar Hejira explains the rise in imports

«The shifts in Morocco's trade balance and the increase in imports are part of a natural progression, reflecting the country's vibrant investment climate and economic activity», stated Omar Hejira, the Secretary of State in charge of Foreign Trade, on Monday at the House of Representatives.

In response to questions about efforts to curb the trade deficit, Omar Hejira emphasized that 62% of Morocco's imports are essential, as they consist of critical inputs for production and investment. These imports are categorized into energy products (13%), capital goods (24%), raw materials (21%), and cereals and agricultural products (4%).

He explained that these imports are crucial for driving forward Morocco's projects, structural initiatives, and economic activities, especially in infrastructure development like roads and ports, as well as in industrial sectors such as automotive, aerospace, and shipbuilding.

In this context, the minister underscored the significance of local industrialization, which still relies on importing certain inputs and raw materials.

Concerning the enhancement of exports, he noted that the government is actively pursuing the foreign trade roadmap by diversifying export products, expanding market reach, supporting exporters, evaluating free trade agreements, and digitalizing foreign trade processes. All these efforts aim to reduce the trade balance deficit.