On November 3, 2026, a delegation from the Confédération Générale des Entreprises du Maroc (CGEM) met with the Minister of Artificial Intelligence, Digital Transition, and Administrative Reform, Ahmed Rahhou, in Casablanca. The working session focused on structural projects to improve the business climate, develop the digital ecosystem, and strengthen the competitiveness of the Moroccan economy.
The meeting served to reinforce cooperation between the public and private sectors, positioning private enterprises as essential partners in the Kingdom’s strategic transformation. Officials discussed the role of the private sector in creating added value and employment, while emphasizing the importance of mobilizing businesses to build a competitive and innovative digital economy.
Prioritizing Administrative Reform
A central topic of the meeting was the simplification of administrative procedures, which the CGEM identified as a primary obstacle to investment and business development. Participants emphasized that efforts should extend beyond simple digitization of formal steps. Instead, the goal is to fundamentally rethink processes to ensure they are more intuitive, rapid, and efficient for investors.
One specific proposal discussed involves replacing existing systems of prior authorization with clearly defined sets of specifications for certain activities. This shift would allow businesses to focus on meeting established requirements rather than seeking systematic approval before launching operations. The CGEM noted that complex government procedures continue to slow economic growth across the country.
Morocco Seeks Key Role in Global Artificial Intelligence Market
The dialogue also addressed the role of data and artificial intelligence in fostering economic growth. The parties explored the opening and utilization of public data to enable startups and companies to create innovative digital services. Regarding artificial intelligence, the discussion highlighted the importance of establishing a clear position for Morocco within the global AI value chain.
A significant portion of the session was dedicated to human capital, with both sides agreeing on the necessity of large-scale training. Adapting educational curricula in both public and private institutions is considered essential to better align training with the specific skills required by economic actors and to capitalize on the opportunities presented by AI.
Standardizing Support for Startups
The CGEM and the Ministry reached a consensus on the need to adopt a common, operational definition for startups. Such a definition would serve as a reference point for various public mechanisms, particularly regarding access to government procurement contracts and support programs. While no final definition was announced, both parties committed to launching joint initiatives in the near term to accelerate investment, boost corporate competitiveness, and stimulate innovation across the national economy.
The delegation accompanying CGEM President Mehdi Tazi included several commission chairs: Reda Lahmini for Attractiveness and Business Climate, Mohamed Benouda for Artificial Intelligence and Economic Transformation, Hassan Belkhayat for Studies and Economic Intelligence, and Hamza Rkha for Startup Acceleration.
