Morocco Plan Could Create 1.7 Million Jobs by 2035

Morocco is preparing for an economic transformation that could create 1.7 million jobs over the next decade, giving hope to millions of young people and women seeking work.

The World Bank released a roadmap this week showing how Morocco can achieve this ambitious goal through targeted reforms. The plan focuses on opening up markets, helping businesses grow faster, and removing barriers that have kept women out of the workforce.

Morocco has made solid economic progress in recent years, but the gains haven't translated into enough jobs. Between 2000 and 2024, the working-age population grew 2.5 times faster than actual employment, leaving too many qualified people on the sidelines.

Women face especially steep barriers, with some of the lowest workforce participation rates globally despite strong education levels. The reforms aim to change that by creating more inclusive workplaces and opportunities.

The plan identifies concrete opportunities in four promising sectors: decentralized solar power, sustainable textiles, argan-based cosmetics, and marine aquaculture. These industries align perfectly with Morocco's green growth goals while tapping into the country's natural strengths.

Private investment is key to the strategy. The World Bank estimates these reforms could attract $7.4 billion in private funding and generate 166,000 jobs in these four sectors alone within the next five to ten years.

The Ripple Effect

The reforms go beyond just creating jobs. By 2035, Morocco's real GDP could jump nearly 20% above current projections, lifting entire communities out of poverty.

The changes would help 40% of Moroccan industries break free from limited competition, allowing more businesses to scale up and boost productivity. When companies thrive, entire supply chains and local economies benefit.

By 2050, the full impact could reach 2.5 million additional jobs, fundamentally reshaping opportunities for the next generation. Young people entering the workforce today could see a completely different economic landscape than their parents faced.

The World Bank is streamlining regulations, digitalizing paperwork, and improving access to renewable energy and infrastructure to make these investments easier. These practical steps remove the red tape that has historically blocked investors from acting on Morocco's potential.

"Morocco has the sectoral assets and the policy ambition to attract significantly more private investment," said Cheick-Oumar Sylla from the International Finance Corporation. The country stands ready for a new era of private sector growth that could mobilize investment equal to 4% of GDP.

Morocco has built a strong foundation, and now it's ready to scale up and deliver real opportunities where they're needed most.