On November 3, 2026, Moroccan Minister of Artificial Intelligence, Digital Transformation, and Administrative Reform Ahmed Rahhou met with CGEM President Mehdi Tazi in Casablanca to discuss ways to improve the business environment and accelerate the country's digital transformation. The meeting focused on several key areas, including simplifying administrative procedures, opening up public data, and developing artificial intelligence. These initiatives aim to facilitate business operations and encourage investment in Morocco.
The meeting highlighted the need to reduce administrative constraints, which are considered a major obstacle to investment and business development. The CGEM emphasized that simplifying procedures is not just about digitizing existing processes but also about rethinking their design to make them more accessible, faster, and better suited to the needs of economic operators. One possible solution discussed was replacing prior authorization regimes with clear guidelines defining conditions and obligations for certain activities.
The discussion also touched on the importance of opening up public data to facilitate its exploitation by businesses and startups, promoting the emergence of new digital services and innovative solutions. The parties also explored Morocco's positioning in the various components of the artificial intelligence value chain, emphasizing the need to develop large-scale training and adapt public and private education programs to meet business needs.
Another topic addressed during the meeting was the need for a common definition of a startup to facilitate access to support mechanisms. The ministry and CGEM agreed on the importance of adopting a common, operational definition that can serve as a reference for accessing public markets, financing, support, and accompaniment mechanisms. This clarification would provide a shared framework for innovative businesses.
The meeting was attended by several CGEM officials, including Reda Lahmini, Mohamed Benouda, Hassan Belkhayat, Hamza Rkha, and Samia Terhzaz. The parties agreed to launch several joint work projects in the short term, focusing on identified priorities. These initiatives aim to accelerate investment, improve business competitiveness, and stimulate innovation in the Moroccan economy.
The Moroccan government has made efforts to improve the business environment and encourage investment. According to a recent report, Morocco's investment landscape is expected to see significant growth, with several major projects in the pipeline. The government's efforts to simplify administrative procedures and promote digital transformation are seen as key factors in attracting investors.
The meeting between the minister and the CGEM president highlights the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in driving economic growth and development. By working together, the government and businesses can identify areas for improvement and implement effective solutions to boost investment and competitiveness. The outcome of this meeting is expected to have a positive impact on Morocco's economy.
Key points
- The Moroccan government and CGEM are working together to simplify administrative procedures and boost investment.
- The meeting discussed the importance of opening up public data and developing artificial intelligence to drive innovation and economic growth.
- A common definition of a startup is being sought to facilitate access to support mechanisms and promote entrepreneurship.
