Morocco's government has earmarked nearly MAD 1.8 billion ($183 million) to support public audiovisual services and MAD 247 million ($25.1 million) for press institutions in its draft Finance Bill for 2027. The allocations aim to modernize the media sector, strengthen professional journalism, and improve content quality. This move is part of the government's strategy to reinforce public media, support a pluralistic and responsible press, and invest in professional training.
The government plans to continue supporting public institutions operating in audiovisual media, news, and cinema. It also intends to review specifications governing audiovisual outlets to strengthen the presence of values in national programming and promote Moroccan cultural and media production. These measures are designed to promote a responsible and high-quality media sector.
The draft budget provides funding to develop the skills of future media professionals and strengthen specialized training institutions. The Higher Institute of Audiovisual and Cinema Professions is set to receive an operating grant of MAD 8.06 million ($820,000), while the annual investment grant for the Higher Institute of Information and Communication is expected to reach MAD 8.61 million ($876,000).
The government plans to gradually operationalize an annex of the Higher Institute of Audiovisual and Cinema Professions in Dakhla, expanding training opportunities and preparing professionals for careers in audiovisual production and related fields. At the regional level, the government intends to continue establishing regional directorates for the communication sector and set up regional media and communication centers in Fez and Errachidia.
The measures aim to bring services closer to citizens and support the implementation of advanced regionalization. Institutional reform is another component of the government's plans for 2027, with the draft budget providing for the implementation of new responsibilities established under Decree No. 2.24.1143, which defines the organization and remit of the communication sector.
The proposed measures are linked to the Royal guidelines calling for public media to contribute to national cohesion and strengthen Morocco's international standing. The government considers professional, pluralistic, and high-quality journalism an important component of institutional development and the broader effort to build a social state.
The government also plans to prevent children under 15 from accessing social media platforms and dangerous electronic games, establishing a legal framework to protect younger generations from harmful or unlawful online activities. The proposed allocations combine direct support for media institutions with investment in training, regional infrastructure, and regulatory reform.
Key points
- Morocco's 2027 budget allocates nearly MAD 2 billion to support the media sector.
- The government aims to modernize the media sector, strengthen professional journalism, and improve content quality.
- The allocations include funding for media training, regional services, and institutional reform.
