WT/TPR/M/329  
12 April 2016  
(16-2033)  Page: 1/52  
Trade Policy Review Body 
2 and 4 February 2016   
 
  TRADE POLICY REVIEW 
KINGDOM OF MOROCCO  
MINUTES OF THE MEETING 
Chairperson: H.E. Mr Atanas Atanassov Paparizov (Bulgaria) 
CONTENTS 
 
1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAI RPERSON ....................................................... 2  
2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF THE KINGDOM OF 
MOROCCO ....................................................................................................................... . 3 
3  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT ................................................................................ 7  
4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS .......................................................................................... 9  
5  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF THE KINGDOM OF MOROCCO AND 
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS ............................................................................................... 43  
6  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAI RPERSON ......................................................... 51  
 
 
Note: Advance written questions and additional questions by WTO Members, and the replies 
provided by the Kingdom of Morocco are reprod uced in document WT/TPR/M/329/Add.1 and will 
be available online at http://www.wto.or g/english/tratop_e/tpr_e/tp_rep_e.htm. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON 
1.1.  The fifth Trade Policy Review of the Kingdom of  Morocco was held on 2 and 4 February 2016. 
The Chairperson H.E. Mr. Atanas Atanassov Paparizov (Bulgaria) welcomed the delegation of Morocco headed by H.E. Mr. Mohammed Abbou, Minister delegate in charge of Foreign Trade; 
H.E. Ambassador Mohamed Auajjar, Permanent Representative of the Kingdom of Morocco to the 
WTO; the rest of the delegation from Morocco; th e rest of the colleagues from the Mission in 
Geneva; and the discussant, Mr. Jean-Paul Thuillier (France). 
1.2.  The Chairperson recalled the purpose of the Tr ade Policy Reviews and the main elements of 
the procedures for the meeting. The report by the Kingdom of Morocco was contained in document WT/TPR/G/329 and that of the WT O Secretariat in WT/TPR/S/329. 
1.3.  Questions by the following delegations had been  submitted in writing before the deadline of 
5.30 p.m. of 19 January and had been transmitted to the delegation of Morocco: United States; 
Mexico; Canada; Australia; Brazil; European Union; Colombia; Japan; New Zealand; Russian Federation; and China. The following delegations submitted written questions after the deadline: 
Republic of Korea; Argentina; Turkey; Chile;  and Thailand. These questions had also been 
transmitted to the delegation of Morocco. 
1.4.  The Chairperson was pleased to note that, despite the global economic crisis, Morocco had 
continued to grow at an average annual rate of 3.7% over 2009-15, helped by trade reforms that 
had stimulated competition in many sectors of its domestic market, had encouraged innovation and had created new jobs, a main challenge to its economy. 
1.5.  The automotive industry was now among the most performing activities; it was operating 
under the export processing zone regime and accounted for about 30% of Morocco's total exports. 
Tourism had continued to expand rapidly, and was one of the country's main sources of foreign exchange. Banking activities had beco me an important services exporter. 
1.6.  Agrifood exports also gained in importance, mainly under Morocco's trade agreements with 
the EU and the United States; the agri-industry remained a traditional source of family employment and income for the rural population. However, Morocco's MFN agricultural trade 
r e g i m e  r e m a i n e d  c o m p l e x ,  w i t h  a  w h o l e  a r r a y  o f  m e a s u r e s  s u c h  a s  h i g h  t a r i f f s ,  t h r e s h o l d  o r  
minimum entry prices, seasonal tariffs (according to domestic production), and tariff quotas. 
1.7.  Morocco's regime on fisheries appeared to be complex and opaque, and Members liked to 
know more about its sustainability. Also, the prospects for greater foreign investment in the 
mining sector were of interest to Members. In particular, exports of crude phosphates, which were 
still under a State trading monopoly, declined sharply during the period under review in spite of a national strategy to control both the world suppl y and the world prices of phosphates and their 
by-products.  
1.8.  Morocco had successfully phased out consumer subsidies for petroleum products. 
Nevertheless, considerable amounts of public funds continued to be spent under the Government's 
numerous schemes available to private investment s, including in export-oriented activities. 
1.9.  Morocco had reduced its overall average MFN tariff rate, from 20% in 2009 to 12.5% in 2015. 
However, its tariff protection for agriculture remained high and the number of tariff lines for which the applied rates continued to exceed Morocco's WTO bound rates still stood at 792 lines. Members 
were interested in the prospects for further simplification of Morocco's tax regime with the view to 
ensuring full compliance with the national treatment principle. 
1.10.  The Chairperson was sure that these issues, and many more, would be touched upon in 
greater detail at the deliberations on the first and second day of the meeting.  
1.11.  He closed his introductory remarks by wishing Morocco a very successful fifth Trade Policy 
Review. He looked forward to its active engagement in this TPR. 
1.12.  He also noted that a podcast would be made of the meeting which could be accessed on the 
Members' website. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF THE KINGDOM OF MOROCCO 
(H.E. MR. MOHAMMED ABBOU) 
2.1.  Allow me to start by expressing my appreciation to the Chairperson for his warm words about 
Morocco, myself and the delegation accompanying me. 
2.2.  I extend that appreciation to His Excellenc y the Ambassador and Permanent Representative 
of France for agreeing to present Morocco's trade policy. 
2.3.  I would also like to thank the WTO Secretariat for the first-rate work it has done during the 
preparatory process for this fifth trade policy revi ew of the Kingdom of Morocco and its customary 
cooperation with the Moroccan Government. 
2.4.  Additionally, I would like to express my thanks to the delegations who have joined us here 
today for the interest they have shown in Morocco's trade policy review. 
2.5.  From the outset, I should like to reiterate the Kingdom of Morocco's firm commitment to a 
fair, open multilateral trading system that affords equitable integration into the world economy for all Members of our Organization. 
2.6.  In this regard Morocco will spare no effort to  strengthen the fundamental role of the WTO in 
trade liberalization and the promotion of inclusive, sustainable social and economic development. 
2.7.  In our view, the trade policy review mechanism that Morocco is engaging in today is actively 
contributing to that process by ensuring transparency and better understanding of the trade 
policies of the Members of our Organization. 
2.8.  To that end, I myself and the delegation accompanying me are at your disposal to answer 
your questions and provide any clarifications ne cessary on the trade policy implemented by the 
Kingdom of Morocco since its last review in 2009. 
2.9.  I would like briefly to summarize the trade policy of Morocco over the last few years to give 
Members an insight into its objectives and ambitions in relation to the development strategy 
adopted by Morocco. 
2.10.  In that regard I should emphasize that several decades ago the Kingdom of Morocco made 
the strategic and irreversible decision to open up  its economy. It bolstered that decision with 
macroeconomic and sectoral policies aimed at establishing a business environment that would 
sustain growth, stimulate investment and ensure that businesses would develop internationally. 
2.11.  As part of that framework, Morocco's long-standing macroeconomic policy has consistently 
pursued the consolidation of fundamental equilibria and deeper sectoral reforms. As a result of its 
rigorous approach, Morocco was able to maintain its fiscal deficit and balance-of-payments current 
account deficit within reasonable limits of no more than 4.9% and 5.8% respectively in 2014, despite the uncertainties generated by a challenging international situation. 
2.12.  Several reforms have been implemented to address the impact of the challenging global 
economic environment that arose following the wo rld financial crisis of 2008, the slowdown in 
growth in the euro area and the rise in prices of petroleum products. 
2.13.  This has, of course, had a negative effect  on Morocco's trade deficit, which reached 
significant levels in 2013, leading the Moroccan Government to take the measures necessary to limit its adverse impact on the economy's financin g capacity, including by opening a Precautionary 
and Liquidity Line with the International Monetary Fund. 
2.14.  Those provisions have been backed up since 2009 by a proactive monetary policy aimed at 
improving credit conditions by gradually lowering the key policy interest rate and the monetary reserve ratio, and adopting an inflation target conducive to price stability, as well as a more robust 
legal framework for the banking system. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  2.15.  Combined with a policy to support domestic demand and improve wages, these efforts 
generated real GDP growth of 4% during the period 2009-2014, one of the highest in the 
MENA region. 
2.16.  The trade policy pursued by Morocco also contribu ted to this performance, with the value of 
trade in goods and services rising by 2.5%  on average over the period 2008-2014 to 
DH 715.8 billion in 2014. 
2.17.  The high level of foreign trade helped consolidate the degree of openness in the Moroccan 
economy, which in 2014 was 77.4%, again one of the highest in the MENA region. 
2.18.  Buoyant exports and the easing of energy pric es since 2014 have reduced the trade deficit. 
As a result, the rate of coverage of demand, wh ich had fallen to less than 70% in 2012, stood at 
over 82% in 2015. This performance also led to a sharp fall in the current account deficit, from 
7.9% of GDP in 2013 to 1.9% in 2015. 
2.19.  Capital account transactions helped to consolidate the current account performance. It 
should be noted that Morocco has become one of the chief destinations for foreign direct 
investment in the MENA region and is also the se cond-highest ranking African investor in Africa. 
2.20.  A s  I  s a i d  a t  t h e  b e g i n n i n g  o f  m y  s t a t e m e n t ,  the Kingdom of Morocco made a strategic, 
irreversible decision to open up its economy.  The trade policy implemented over the ensuing 
decades has reaffirmed and consolidated that decision through sustained liberalization of the 
Moroccan economy and further integration into the global economy. 
2.21.  The various trade policy measures pursued by Morocco in recent years are all part of 
implementing this strategic self-imposed choice through multiple projects. 
2.22.  First we should mention the efforts made to consolidate the conformity of Moroccan 
legislation with Morocco's commitments at multilateral and bilateral level. 
2.23.  Thus, the new constitution adopted by the Moroccan people in 2011 enshrined the 
supremacy of international commitments over national law. This significant measure opened the 
way to a major legislative reform package that has also encompassed trade. 
2.24.  Thus, a new law on foreign trade was drawn up by the Government. It is currently 
undergoing Parliamentary scrutiny. Morocco has also adopted a law on trade defence whose key 
provisions are based on the WTO rules and disciplines in this sphere. 
2.25.  Morocco is continuing to implement its various free trade agreements with 56 countries. This 
process, which has bolstered the openness of the Moroccan economy, is undergoing consolidation 
and expansion both in terms of the sectors in volved and in terms of geographical scope. 
2.26.  In 2012, Morocco concluded a new agricultural  agreement with the European Union and 
embarked upon negotiations with the EU on a deep and comprehensive free trade agreement 
(DCFTA). This new generation of agreement is likely to cover, if appropriate, goods, services and 
the business climate package. 
2.27.  Morocco is also involved in the process of implementing the Greater Arab Free Trade Area 
and is negotiating the establishment of a customs union with its Arab partners. Morocco is also 
exploring other options to extend its preferential trade with other countries in Africa, the Americas 
and Asia. 
2.28.  These projects to boost preferential trad e are supported by consolidation of tariff 
rationalization and the downward trend in tariff levels. 
2.29.  In order to bolster its import liberalization policy and reduce anti-export bias, Morocco is 
continuing to reduce tariff protection. As a result, the applied rates have been substantially cut 
compared to the bound rates and are no higher than 12.5% for non-agricultural products 
compared to a bound rate of 55%. Since 2009, the tariff scheme applied to non-agricultural WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  products has been reduced from six rates to four (2.5%, 10%, 17.5% and 25%). For agricultural 
products, the 2013 tariff reform substantially reduced tariff peaks on certain products. 
2.30.  Those reforms were supported by enhanced monitoring of compliance with the terms of fair 
competition on the domestic market in order to address under-invoicing triggered by the 
implementation of commitments under the Customs Valuation Agreement, or to deal with 
dumping. Safeguard measures have also been taken to tackle the significant rise in imports that could be harmful to the domestic production sector, in full compliance with the relevant WTO rules 
and disciplines. 
2.31.  Additionally, Morocco is continuing to build up its export capacity by establishing a business- 
and investment-friendly environment and the active promotion of Moroccan products abroad. The Maroc Export strategy implemented since 2010 ha s brought about improvements in the targeting 
of export promotion policy and has further diversified the destination markets for Moroccan 
products. 
2.32.  As regards trade facilitation, it should be pointed out that the ratification by Morocco of the 
Agreement on Trade Facilitation concluded at Bali under the auspices of the WTO is at a very 
advanced stage. Indeed, the text is currently before Parliament. 
2.33.  In that connection I would like to emphasize that Morocco was one of the countries that 
anticipated the provisions of that Agreement when in 2009 it introduced new measures to 
streamline customs procedures, including the esta blishment of a computerized customs clearance 
system (BADR system). 
2.34.  The process of introducing a virtual single window for foreign trade sped up markedly, 
making it possible to enhance the streamlining process and the move to paperless processing. 
2.35.  The PortNet system, which serves as a virtual single window for foreign trade operations, 
connects close to 15,000 importers with the various authorities, banks and private operators and 
enables a range of formalities to be completed online simply by connecting to the platform. 
2.36.  Where intellectual property is concerned, in December 2008 Morocco ratified the Protocol 
amending the TRIPS Agreement, which incorporated the new provisions that emerged from the 
Doha Declaration on the TRIPS Agreement and Public Health concerning compulsory licensing. 
2.37.  In the same vein, Morocco has put measures in place to combat counterfeiting and adopted 
legislation to enhance industrial property rights. By acceding to the relevant international treaties Morocco has been able to strengthen its legal fram ework for the protection of industrial property 
rights for national and foreign investors and to bring its legislation into line with the highest 
international standards in the field. 
2.38.  Broadly speaking, improving the business climate has been one of the Government's 
priorities over the last six years. In addition to the projects I have just outlined, there are others 
that have been completed or that are still under way. In that regard I shall mention only the reform of the Investment Charter, the reform of the small and medium-sized enterprise charter, 
the reform of the institutional framework govern ing government procurement, the reform of the 
law on joint-stock companies, and the reform of the Commercial Code in respect of failing businesses. 
2.39.  While welcoming the outcome of the 9
th and 10th Ministerial Conferences as regards the 
Agreement on Trade Facilitation and the decisions in favour of LDCs and on agricultural matters, 
Morocco firmly believes that conclusion of the Doha Development Round would bring more trade, 
investment and employment opportunities. It would also consolidate and foster a more stable and 
open foreign trade environment while further enhanc ing the role of the multilateral trading system. 
2.40.  However, the outcomes obtained to date fall short of the DDA ambition to place the needs 
and interests of developing countries at the heart of the multilateral trade negotiations. Morocco 
has consistently called on Members to exercise grea ter flexibility in the negotiations and will spare 
no effort to achieve a rapid conclusion to the Doha Round. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  2.41.  Defending the interests of African countries, especially the least developed among them, has 
always been one of Morocco's major concerns. This common central core around which Morocco has constructed its positions and initiatives led it to host the 20
th anniversary celebration in 
April 2015 of the founding of the WTO in Marrakesh under the theme of the integration of Africa 
into the multilateral trading system. 
2.42.  This commemoration was an opportunity to assess the achievements of the Organization's 
20 years of existence and its contribution to the global economy, and to developing countries in 
particular. The African Ministers and Parliamentarians who attended the event formulated several 
recommendations and suggestions to improve the spillover effects of the multilateral trading system on the African continent. 
2.43.  The conference, which benefitted from the effective personal participation of the 
Director-General of the WTO, was an opportunity to  underscore the need for priority to be given to 
the DDA issues, in particular in the areas of agri culture, flexibilities, and special and differential 
treatment for LDCs, and to frame Aid for Trad e as a major development component of the 
Doha Round. 
2.44.  Before concluding, I must reaffirm Morocco's commitment to make its contribution to the 
great project of an open and fair multilateral trading system that can meet the changes and 
requirements of the international environment. 
2.45.  I should also like to reaffirm Morocco's determination to join its efforts to those of other 
WTO Members with a view to finding appropriate solutions to the impact of the current economic and trade crisis while at the same time remaining convinced that a successful conclusion to the 
Doha Round is one of the ways of strengthening world trade and growth. History teaches us that 
resorting to protectionism merely exacerbates crises. I hope that that is a lesson we will remember. 
2.46.  Thank you for your attention. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  3  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT 
3.1.  I thank His Excellency Mr Mohammed Abbou, Minister for Foreign Trade and Head of the 
Moroccan Delegation, and His Excellency Mr Mohamed Auajjar, Moroccan Ambassador to the United Nations and Other International Organizations in Switzerland and the WTO, for requesting 
that the Permanent Representative of France to the WTO should present the Fifth Review of the 
Trade Policy of Morocco in a personal capacity. 
3.2.  The Kingdom of Morocco, an original Member of the WTO, is deeply committed to 
multilateralism. Although a Ministerial Conference has just been held in Africa for the first time in 
the Organization's history, the name of Morocco, an African country, is inextricably linked to the Marrakesh Conference and the resulting agreements that constitute the founding act of the multilateral trading system. Moving forward 20 years, its commitment to multilateralism was 
reiterated when Morocco decided jointly with France to assume responsibility for preparing the 
forthcoming Climate Conference charged with implementing the historic agreement secured in Paris at COP 21, and then to take the chair in December 2016 and for 2017 for COP 22, to be held 
in Marrakesh. 
3.3.  As a lower-middle-income developing country according to the World Bank classification, the 
Kingdom of Morocco faces a number of structural challenges (demographic growth, education and 
training, poverty, informal economy, productivity, effective labour market participation, inequality 
between men and women). These challenges have a bearing on economic and, of course, trade policy decisions. In the 1990s Morocco made the decision to undertake gradual integration into world trade supported by various reforms on domestic markets, while encouraging competition, 
stimulating innovation and seeking to expand foreign direct investment. 
3.4.  Marked by a phased reduction in tariff protecti on under which the average MFN tariff fell from 
close to 20% in 2009 to 12.5% in 2015, the liberalization process has been bolstered by a 
cohesive strategy for preferential agreements, firs t with the European Union, its principal partner, 
with which trade in manufactures is duty-free and agricultural products are traded as part of the progressive liberalization process. Since 2013 th at system has been supplemented by the draft 
deep and comprehensive free trade agreement. Then  there are agreements with Turkey and EFTA; 
with the United States as part of a comprehens ive agreement covering all sectors; with Arab 
partners, spurring Morocco's ambition to establish a customs union and a common market as epitomized by the Greater Arab Free Trade Area, the free trade agreement with the United Arab 
Emirates, and the Agadir Agreement; and finally with African partners bound by various 
preferential agreements, including duty -free access for products from LDCs. 
3.5.  Since the financial crisis of 2008, this strategy of progressive liberalization has faced an 
unpromising international environment, with growth in Europe at a standstill and only gradually 
recovering strength; the crises of the Arab Spring  that have affected the macroeconomic stability 
of Morocco's regional partners; the more recent slowdown in world trade and growth of the major 
emerging partners, posing new risks; to say nothing of the terrorist threat fracturing the 
Sahelian hinterland with which Morocco might aim to develop partnerships and play a role as springboard for the European Union. 
3.6.  Morocco's economic performance has been sustained despite the unpromising international 
climate: since 2009, economic growth has been significant, averaging 3.7%, per capita income has 
doubled over ten years to US$3,190 in 2014 according to World Bank figures, economic diversification has increased, boosted by an active policy to attract FDI, particularly in 
the agri-food, aeronautics, electronics and automotive sectors (the automotive sector was the top 
exporting sector in 2014), as well as the services sector - tourism was the top source for foreign currency, ahead of remittances from expatriates, transport development, banking and finance, 
including significant holdings in the banking sector in Sub-Saharan African countries. The ongoing 
macroeconomic vulnerabilities lie in the trade deficit (but this trend has been in reverse since 2013), the fiscal deficit, the relatively low level of exchange reserves (four to five months of 
imports) and under-employment, particularly among young people, with a severe imbalance 
between men and women. 
3.7.  This performance was buttressed by significant investment in communications infrastructure 
(roads, motorways, ports, airports, telecommunica tions), proactive strategic plans supported by WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  the constitutional reform initiated in 2011, and the review of the legislative framework for trade 
and business investment. Of particular note are the Green Morocco Plan for sustainable agricultural development whose aim is to protect vulnerab le sectors while fostering the international 
competitiveness and enhancing the value of finish ed products; the Halieutis plan for sustainable 
fisheries management; the National Industrial Acceleration Plan for the period 2014-2020; the 
establishment of the National Food Safety Board; the successive reforms of VAT, and of customs and excise duties; the reform of the competit ion framework and the legal framework for trade 
defence measures; the reform of the Compensation  Fund; the reform of the legislative framework 
for intellectual property to bring it into line with the TRIPS Agreement, and a mechanism for the 
mutual recognition of patents with the European  Patent Organization; a new public procurement 
code adopted in 2014; a reform of the foreign ex change regimes linked to the export free zones 
regime to make Morocco more attractive and reduce the trade deficit. 
3.8.  All these many, important reforms have impacted positively on Morocco's image and 
performance, particularly where governance is co ncerned. There has been significant progress in 
international rankings, including those of Transparency International (80
th place in 2014 compared 
to 91st in 2013), the World Bank's Doing Business (75th in 2016 with notable progress in starting a 
business and registering property, compared to 114th in 2010-2011), although the World Economic 
Forum ranking has held firm over the period 2010-2016 at 72nd in 2016 with institutions, 
infrastructure, and the macroeconomic environment noted to be strong points; and higher education, training, the labour market, and women's role in the economy noted as weak points (on this last point Morocco ranked 133
rd out of 140 countries). 
3.9.  In the light of these achievements and perfor mance, this trade policy review provides the 
opportunity to raise a number of general matters with the delegation of Morocco prior to the actual review: 
 On the macroeconomic environment, the uncertainties affecting world growth in the form of 
the significant slowdown in world trade has since January 2014 coincided with a fall in oil prices: although Morocco imports the bulk of its energy (95%), the Minister referred to 
certain effects on growth, the current account balance and the fiscal balances. This raises 
two questions: are any economic policy adjustments under consideration? And are the changes envisaged in the new draft law on foreign trade to be viewed in that context? 
 The policies to attract FDI to the export free zones, with differential regimes for customs 
duties, VAT, taxation and foreign exchange, pose risks to the national economy in the form 
of red tape, performance requirements and even economic distortions: what is the 
Government of Morocco's analysis of these risks and is it considering any streamlining 
measures? 
 With regard to import and export trade flows,  Africa's place remains modest compared to 
the traditional markets, for both exports of manufactures to Morocco and investment. The 
accelerating pace of growth in Africa means that  there are opportunities there. On this point, 
can Morocco expand on how its medium-term strategy foresees the country's role as a springboard between Europe and Africa? 
 In relation to trade policies, the Minister has given some indications of the ratification status 
of the Agreement on Trade Facilitation adopted in Bali, under which Morocco has adopted 
Category A measures the implementation of which would appear to be consistent with the reform of customs procedures and the new PortNet electronic platform. Those indications 
imply that the Moroccan Parliament will shortly adopt the Trade Facilitation Agreement, and 
we would like to know whether a potential date for this can be hazarded. 
3.10.  Finally, on government procurement, which has elicited a variety of questions from 
Members: in addition to the domestic reform of  the Government Procurement Code introduced in 
January 2014, is participation by Morocco as an observer to the WTO Plurilateral Agreement on Government Procurement envisaged in the medium term by the Moroccan authorities? WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS 
UNITED  STATES 
4.1.  As the Secretariat’s report notes, Morocco’s economic progress since the last review has been 
impressive, with a doubling of GDP per capita to  US$3,250 in 2014. Morocco currently is ranked by 
the World Bank in the lower middle income category, and it has followed a very deliberate and 
successful strategy of economic diversification, which appears to have laid the foundation for solid future growth. We commend Morocco for remaining steadfast in its pursuit of economic reforms 
and liberalization. This is particularly commendable given the instability which has affected the 
broader Middle East and North Africa region in rece nt years. Morocco has persevered in the face of 
significant challenges, including the softening of overall demand in its main European export markets and a significant drop in foreign exchan ge revenue from Moroccans working abroad and 
foreign tourists. 
4.2.  As the Secretariat’s report indicates, international trade and investment have figured 
prominently in the Moroccan government’s plans to modernize the economy and stimulate new 
business activity. Morocco has negotiated perhaps the largest number of free trade agreements of 
any country its size. These efforts may have ge nerated at times some measure of controversy 
within Morocco. In our view, however, the results are evident in the growing role of higher level 
manufacturing in Morocco’s export sector and in the growing interest among foreign firms in 
Morocco as an attractive investment destination. 
4.3.  The United States has been pleased to work with Morocco for over a decade to advance 
Morocco’s economic development through an enhanced bilateral trade and investment relationship. 
In 2006, our bilateral free trade agreement entered into force and immediately eliminated tariff 
and non-tariff barriers to bilateral trade in virtually all industrial goods and agricultural products. In February 2015, during the fourth meeting of the Joint Committee established under the FTA to 
manage implementation issues, we noted significant progress in a number of areas covered by the 
agreement. These include trade facilitation, agricu ltural SPS matters, and labour and environment 
issues related to trade. We also discussed areas in  need of further progress, including additional 
aspects of agricultural trade. Since the FTA entere d into force, the U.S. Government has attempted 
to strengthen the operation of the agreement through our bilateral trade reform assistance programming so that Morocco can take  full advantage of its benefits. 
4.4.  While we see great potential in Morocco, reforms in certain areas would magnify foreign 
business interest in the Moroccan market. Many of the questions we have posed in this review 
reflect our desire to better communicate to U.S. private sector operators the opportunities and challenges that await them in Morocco. For example, we have sought additional information on 
various aspects of Morocco’s customs and tax regimes, as well as measures affecting exports. We 
believe that Morocco, in general, has a strong regime for protecting IPR and would welcome the opportunity to review recent developments relate d to Morocco’s copyright law, among others, as 
well as to learn more about Morocco’s current and future enforcement efforts to combat piracy. 
The United States is a consistent advocate for strong intellectual property protections as critical to creating a business-friendly economy, and in that regard we seek greater clarity with respect to a number of Moroccan policies in this area. 
4.5.  In closing, Morocco has amply demonstrated that integration with the international trading 
system is an important element in its overall econ omic growth strategy. The United States remains 
ready to work with Morocco to strengthen cooperation both in the WTO and in bilateral arenas. We 
thank Morocco for the responses to our questions and look forward to the continuation of this 
review. 
MEXICO 
4.6.  The delegation of Mexico is pleased to note  that Morocco, the country where the Agreement 
establishing this Organization was signed, has performed well economically and made significant progress in trade matters since its last review, as explained by His Excellency Minister Mohammed Abbou, whom we warmly welcome along with his delegation from Rabat. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  Overall economic development 
4.7.  Morocco is to be commended for the range of reforms it has undertaken and the significant 
4% average growth rate posted between 2009 and 2014. 
Bilateral relations between Mexico and Morocco 
4.8.  Bilateral trade between Mexico and Morocco has increased over recent years. In 2014, 
Moroccan exports to Mexico grew by 24.11% over  the 2008 figures, while Mexican exports to 
Morocco increased by 228% over the same period. The Mexican delegation can but hope that this 
trend will continue and become more balanced and that our trade with Morocco will continue to 
increase. 
Tariffs 4.9.  On tariff policy, a study of ta riff profiles by the WTO, ITC and UNCTAD states that the 
average applied tariff in Morocco in 2014 was 27.4% for agricultural products and 8.7% for 
non-agricultural products. This is to be comme nded given that the bound levels are 58% and 
39.6% respectively. Nonetheless we are concerned that the WTO Secretariat report, for which we 
are most grateful, states that there are at least 792 tariff lines for which the applied rate is higher 
than the bound rate. The delegation of Mexico urge s Morocco to bring those tariffs into conformity 
with its commitments and to simplify its MFN regime and its fiscal system, which, as you said, 
Mr Chairperson, are complex and could obstruct trade. 
Trade facilitation 4.10.  On trade facilitation, we welcome the subm ission by Morocco in September 2014 of its 
notification on Category A commitments, and the associated fall in the number of documents 
required for import and export, which contributed to the World Bank's enviable ranking of Morocco 
in 31
st place in its Doing Business 2015  report for trading across borders. Nonetheless, in that 
report Morocco also ranks 122nd for protecting minority investors, 115th for registering property 
and 104th for getting credit. We are confident that Morocco will make the efforts required to 
improve these scores. 
Trade in services and investment 
4.11.  Evidence of as much lies in the recent introduction of reforms aimed at improving the 
business environment. We also welcome the ambitious infrastructure projects, the new sectoral policies and the Industrial Acceleration Plan 2014- 2020 (which seeks to increase the contribution 
of Moroccan manufacturing industry), and the "Vision 2020" strategy announced in 2010, whose 
aim is to make Morocco one of the top 20 tourist destinations in the world. 
4.12.  Most prominent among the new infrastructure projects are the extension of the port of 
Jorf Lasfar, the construction of the new port of Safi, and improvements to the airport network. 
These investments can further increase the benefits that Morocco derives from trade and tourism; 
the delegation of Mexico therefore encourages Mo rocco to continue with those improvements and 
all the reforms it has initiated, as noted by our distinguished discussant. 
4.13.  We thank Morocco for its replies to the advance questions raised by the delegation of Mexico 
and would be grateful if it would examine a few additional questions that we will forward today 
concerning openness and economic integration; trade defence measures; the requirements for 
negotiating international trade agreements; and the regulation of its labour market. 
CANADA 
4.14.  Allow me to begin by congratulating the Kingdom of Morocco on its sound overall economic 
performance since the last review of its trade po licy in 2009. The country's performance is all the 
more noteworthy because it was achieved despite both an adverse international situation and the 
instability in North Africa and the Middle East. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  4.15.  As noted in the Secretariat report, the Government of Morocco has introduced several 
strategies to diversify its economy and develop new export industries, including through foreign investment. 
4.16.  The important reforms that the Kingdom of Moro cco has introduced since its previous review 
in areas including customs procedures, intellectual property and fiscal policy, have also helped to 
stimulate competition in the domestic market and to encourage innovation and job creation, one of 
the main challenges facing the country. In that regard Canada is proud to fund the Developing 
Exports to Create Jobs Programme (EDEC) implem ented by the International Trade Centre of the 
Kingdom of Morocco. 
4.17.  Canada and the Kingdom of Morocco have a long and fruitful economic relationship. 
Canada's commercial activities in Morocco are dive rse and focus not only on the export of goods 
and mining assets, but also on the setting up of many partnerships with educational 
establishments, franchise-building, and other activities as part of global value chains. 
4.18.  In 2011 Canada and the Kingdom of Morocco launched negotiations with a view to 
concluding a free trade agreement. Such an agr eement would be mutually beneficial and would 
enable trade and investment to grow in sectors that the Kingdom of Morocco is planning to develop and would generate increased, shared prosperity. Canada understands that the 
Kingdom of Morocco must complete an impact assessment on the potential advantages of a free 
trade agreement with Canada before continuing the negotiations. 
4.19.  However, despite the large number of measures that Morocco has taken to improve its 
business climate, we note that there is still work to be done. In particular, high tariff barriers still 
impede trade in certain goods, especially in the agricultural sector. Canada notes that the 
Kingdom of Morocco still retains the customs duty of 170% that it introduced in 2005 on imports of durum wheat for the months of June and July. 
4.20.  Moreover, although we acknowledge the work  done since 2004 to harmonize the fiscal 
regime, we note that imported products continue to  be subject to a parafiscal import tax as well as 
other taxes levied at customs. The system could be streamlined in order to facilitate trade with 
trading partners. 
4.21.  Finally, Canada notes the introduction of the new Decree on government procurement that 
applies to State bodies, and we encourage the Kingdom of Morocco to reflect on its participation in the World Trade Organization Agreement on Government Procurement. 
4.22.  Canada is confident that the discussions during this review of the trade policy of the 
Kingdom of Morocco will be most productive. Canada wishes the Moroccan delegation every success in carrying out its work and would like to reiterate its appreciation of the opportunity to 
participate in this process. 
AUSTRALIA 4.23.  Australia welcomes Minister Abbou and the delegation of Morocco to Geneva and appreciates 
the opportunity to participate in the fifth Trade Policy Review of Morocco. Australia’s bilateral 
relationship with Morocco has a broad basis, including security cooperation, people-to-people links, and deepening economic and trade cooperation.  Australia values the leadership Morocco 
demonstrates in its region, particularly in the area of international peace and security, and looks 
forward to continuing to work with Morocco on shared global priorities. 
4.24.  Morocco and Australia enjoy a modest but growing trading relationship, with two-way trade 
in goods and services valued at approximately $133 million in 2014. Most notably, Australia’s 
mining interests in Morocco continue to grow, with Australian mining investment in Morocco 
estimated to be around $250 million at the end of 2014. Commercial ties in the agriculture and urban development sectors are also expanding, and Morocco remains an important destination for 
Australian tourists. 
4.25.  Australia recognizes Morocco’s commitment to modernisation and growth, as well as its 
efforts to encourage international investment. We commend Morocco’s commitment to stimulating WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  economic growth through its "National Mining Development Strategy" for the period up to 2025. 
Australia followed the implementation of Morocco’s updates to its mining legislation in 2014 with particular interest. We note that the new mining code has led to a significant increase in the presence of international companies in exploration and mine development. In particular, Australia 
welcomes the tax incentives and improved access to exploration and exploitation permits under 
the new code. 
4.26.  Reducing barriers to trade and investment are important aspects of economic reform and 
will improve Morocco’s long-term competiveness an d growth. Australia appreciates the efforts of 
the Moroccan government toward economic reform, including the reduction of tariffs. However, we note that despite progress made in the 2013 reforms market access barriers remain, mostly notably remaining high tariffs on some agricultural imports.  
4.27.  Australia encourages Morocco to continue to liberalize and further simplify its trade regime. 
For an economy that has taken the steps Morocco already has, sustaining a commitment to reform and competitiveness can be a real challenge. We believe that Morocco remains committed to these 
reform goals and has completed, for example, a number of bilateral investment and double 
taxation agreements since its last TPR, which should promote further FDI into Morocco.  
4.28.  We welcome the recent approval by the Moro ccan Government of the Agreement on Trade 
Facilitation and look forward to its ratification by the Moroccan Parliament. We commend the 
Government of Morocco for submitting a comprehensive Category A notification and taking significant strides toward implementation throug h their Computerized Online Customs Database 
and new Single Window for foreign trade.  
4.29.  Australia continues to follow implementation of Morocco’s programmes to reduce regional 
and social disparities. We commend Morocco’s incorporation of human rights into the new 
Constitution of 2011. Australia encourages Morocco’s continued focus on promoting the rule of law 
and equal opportunities, increasing participatory policy making, achieving fiscal sustainability and 
strengthening institutions, all of which can play a vital role in addressing structural issues in the economy and social inequality and so provide an important platform for ongoing reform.  
4.30.  For this review, Australia has submitted a number of written questions relating to Morocco’s 
trade and investment regime. We have received Morocco’s responses and are studying them closely. 
BRAZIL 
4.31.  It is a matter of great satisfaction for Brazil to participate in the TPR of Morocco. The good 
performance of the Moroccan economy emanates quite clearly from the Secretariat and the countries reports. There are solid grounds for optimism based on the macroeconomic indexes, 
vigorous economic growth, deepening of trade liberalization and continuous efforts by the 
Government to better governance. This positive environment should pave the way for sustainable 
growth and development. 
4.32.  We note the numerous trade-related reforms and the priority attributed to improving 
competition on the domestic market, encouraging innovation, and integrating the Moroccan productive sector to global production chains. Those efforts were fundamental to overcome the 
negative impact of the financial crisis on Moroccan international trade and investment.  
4.33.  We are pleased to note that Morocco has persevered with its strategy of economic 
diversification, investment in transport infrastructure and gradual trade liberalization. We particularly welcome the major reform of the cust oms duty on imports. By that, Morocco’s average 
MFN tariff rates fell from 20.2% in 2009 to 12.5% in 2015; the average rate for agricultural 
products went from 44.5% to 30% and from 16.3% to 9.5% in the case of non-agricultural products. Not to mention the reductions in the number of tariff peaks and variable duties. These 
are crucial elements in assessing the real degree of openness to trade in any economy. 
4.34.  Turning now to the bilateral domain, I would like to refer first to the fact that Brazil and 
Morocco are important commercial partners. In 2014, Brazil was the third major importer of Moroccan products. Our imports from Morocco increased 368% in the period 2009-2014. Bilateral WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  trade flows have more than doubled in the period under review, from US$877 million in 2009 to 
US$1,818 billion in 2014; with important bilateral trade surpluses for Morocco. 
4.35.  The composition of our bilateral trade has not varied significantly over the period under 
review. Most of our imports from Morocco involve fertilizers, fuels; salt, sulphur, stones and 
cement. On the exporting side, most of our sales to Morocco involve sugar, cereals, iron and steel. 
Naturally, there is still much scope for improvement. 
4.36.  Brazil and Morocco have also concluded negotiations on a number of technical cooperation 
agreements, providing for an institutional framework that strengthens the links between our 
countries. Among those instruments we highlight the Memorandum of Understanding between EMBRAPA – the Brazilian Agency for Agricultural Research – and the Moroccan National Institute for Agricultural Research.  
4.37.  Brazil stands ready to further enhance its cooperation with Morocco, as we are convinced 
that strengthening cooperation among developing countries is an important means to enable the sharing of technologies and practices developed under similar social and economic conditions. 
4.38.  Brazil continues to follow with interest domestic developments in Morocco with regard to its 
trade policy. We have submitted some questions and we are grateful for the responses which will be reviewed carefully.  
EUROPEAN
 UNION   
4.39.  Morocco has successfully mitigated the impact of the financial crisis on its economy and has 
managed to maintain an annual average growth rate of 3.7%. Its efforts to diversify the economy are to be commended. In terms of institutions, pr ogress has been made as a result of Morocco's 
endeavours and could be extended further, fo r example by applying the law on competition 
through the successful introduction of institutions such as the Competition Council, whose members are shortly to be appointed – an operational prerequisite. A predictable, transparent 
legal environment that protects investors and provides conditions of fair competition for economic 
operators is essential. Similarly, the adoption of a transparent code covering all matters related to 
foreign investment could be one way of consolidating work to encourage foreign direct investment, 
which is a considerable source of economic diversification. 
4.40.  Relations between the European Union and Morocco are very close on all levels but here I 
shall obviously restrict my remarks to those aspects that are relevant to this meeting. The EU is Morocco's principal trading partner and an important investor. Bilateral trade has risen since 2008, 
despite the crisis. The European market accounts for 63% of exports from Morocco. In order to 
further develop our trade we have opened negotiations to deepen our free trade agreement and extend it to other areas such as services, investment and government procurement. In terms of 
support for Morocco, the EU intervenes in line wi th the priorities identified by the Government 
under Aid for Trade. By way of illustration, the EU is in the process of supplying expertise in 
sectoral legislation in order to facilitate convergence with the legislation in force in the European 
internal market. 
4.41.  The European Union submitted written questions to Morocco, addressing the following 
priority areas: 
 Transparency, especially as regards notifications to the WTO. The European Union would be 
interested to hear Morocco's intentions for notification of the forms of support it has 
received, including agricultural support, and of state trading enterprises under GATT Article XVII. The EU would also like to know whether the foreign trade law that was, 
apparently, recently adopted will soon be notified. 
 Trade facilitation. The EU welcomes the efforts that Morocco has made in customs 
procedures as highlighted in the Secretariat report. However, constraints still exist and the 
EU would be interested to hear the Government's intentions in that regard. For example, in 
relation to the publication of lists of produc ts likely to be subject to customs fraud, or 
concerning taxes (VAT to be precise) which would appear to apply only to imported products. On this point, the European Union is seeking reassurance that the intentions of the WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  Government in relation to the law on foreign trade that I referred to a moment ago under 
"notification and transparency" are indeed to fa cilitate business transactions by streamlining 
procedures. Finally, without covering every aspect of this important matter, the EU would like to know Morocco's intentions on ratification of the Trade Facilitation Agreement. 
 The conditions of operation for foreign businesses and their access to certain sectors, 
especially services such as tourism, telecoms, architecture and the important matter of the security of operations conducted by economic operators. 
 Reform of the administration of government procurement. Despite the progress evident in 
the provisions of Morocco's new legal framewor k for government procurement, we note that 
the option of giving preference to Moroccan businesses has been retained. 
4.42.  The EU hopes that this two-day review of Morocco's trade policy will enable it to envisage 
measures that will help it to increase its share in world trade and to achieve its economic and 
social objectives. We will naturally examine carefu lly the responses that we received a few hours 
ago. 
COLOMBIA 
4.43.  During the period under review we note that the economy of Morocco performed well, 
reaching an average growth rate of 3.7%. This was driven chiefly by high public and private 
consumption and high investment, which accounts for 35% of GDP. Since the last review 
strategies have been implemented to diversify the economy, invest in transport infrastructure and gradually liberalize trade, and these have contributed to growth, especially in the automotive, aeronautical and electronics industries. 
4.44.  Despite the good performance of economic indi cators, public finances have deteriorated, 
essentially because of the fall in tariff and tax receipts, the increase in consumer subsidies and in energy and sugar price support. As stated in the Secretariat report, the taxation system continues 
to be complex with various rates and exemptions, especially for VAT. 
4.45.  Turning to foreign trade, during the period under review exports grew by 17% and imports 
by 9%. Despite the recovery in exports, the trade deficit persists. Exports and imports focused 
essentially on machinery, automobiles and transport equipment. The European Union is the 
principal export destination with a 63% share, as well as the leading source of imports with a share of 51%. 
4.46.  As regards foreign direct investment, we note that the Kingdom of Morocco has 
implemented measures to attract FDI, especially in industry and the real estate sector. The launch 
of new infrastructure projects has vitalized infl ows of foreign investment in recent years. The 
World Economic Forum has noted that measures should be taken to reduce excessive red-tape and 
improve innovation, the quality of education, and labour market regulation. 
4.47.  On customs procedures, we note that Morocco has been implementing measures to facilitate 
trade and reduce time spent at customs. We highli ght the introduction of computerized processing, 
the single window for foreign trade, the authoriz ed economic operator system and risk assessment 
systems. In relation to the Trade Facilitation Agreement, following Morocco's Category A notification we look forward to the completion of the process of ratification in the very near future. 
4.48.  We note that despite efforts to reduce MFN tariffs, 792 subheadings still exceed the bound 
tariffs. Additionally, trade measures such as subsidies, especially for the agricultural sector, 
consumer taxes, parafiscal taxes, various taxes on imported goods, VAT differentials on domestic and imported goods and special conditions for free zones increase the level of economic protection 
and reduce competitiveness in the Moroccan market. 
4.49.  We welcome the efforts Morocco has been making in the areas of intellectual property, 
sanitary and phytosanitary measures and accreditation to bring its national legislation into 
conformity with its international commitments. We also note the improvements to government 
procurement regulations to make the system more centralized and inclusive. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  4.50.  We also hope that implementation of the Green Morocco Plan to modernize and develop 
agriculture, and the "Vision 2020" strategy to promote industry and tourism will consolidate 
the integration of production and the moderniz ation of the country's economy and generate 
greater economic growth. 
4.51.  On bilateral relations we note that in 2014 Morocco was Colombia's third largest trading 
partner in the Arab world and the second largest on  the African continent. One of the features of 
trade between the two countries has been the dominance of commodities in bilateral trade, 
although Morocco has gradually diversified its exports to Colombia, especially textiles and 
made-up articles. We would like to state our interest in continuing to develop and diversify these relations. 
4.52.  Lastly, we wish the distinguished delegation of the Kingdom of Morocco every success in this 
trade policy review and express our thanks for the replies given to Colombia's questions. 
JAPAN 4.53.  Japan and Morocco have been developing a close relationship for many years through 
various economic and social cooperation. 
4.54.  In general, Morocco has long maintained socio-political stability resulting in robust economic 
development. However, at the same time, Morocco has a high youth unemployment rate and 
regional and social gaps, which could potentially lead to instability in the country. We, Japan, 
recognize Morocco's efforts to address these problems, and have supported them for years. We will continue supporting Morocco's policies toward well-balanced economic development, which will eventually contribute to socio-political stability in the region. 
4.55.  Generally speaking, Morocco has shown robust economic growth since the last review of 
2009. Report by the Secretariat notes that is has grown at a rate of 3.8% on average since the global financial crisis of 2008. 
4.56.  What makes the Moroccan economy different is its diversification. Among its other 
successes, Morocco's development in the automobile and related industries is noteworthy. In recent years, Morocco has emerged as a major pr oducer and exporter of automobiles and auto 
parts in the world, partially thanks to the productions in the Renault-Nissan Alliance plant in 
Tangier.  
4.57.  We also recognize that the aircraft parts production is another area which Morocco intends 
to strengthen to further diversify its economy. 
4.58.  Morocco's robust and well-diversified economy has been supported by a vast amount of 
foreign and domestic investment in the country. The Secretariat's report notes that Morocco is one of the largest investment recipients in North Africa. 
4.59.  These vigorous investment inflows have been mainly thanks to Morocco's relatively open 
investment policies, including the export free zones regime. Improvements in Morocco's infrastructure have also contributed to it. We, Japan, positively evaluate these continuous efforts 
of Morocco. 
4.60.  Japan is aware that the Government of Morocco is now making a great effort to amend "the 
Investment Charter" to enhance the measures promoting investment. We look forward to see it in near future. 
4.61.  In terms of trade policy, the RTAs play a key role in Moroccan trade policies. Morocco is 
quite active in concluding trade agreements. According to the Secretariat report, Morocco has concluded more than ten trade agreements including agreements with the EU, the United States 
and Turkey. 
4.62.  Morocco has also been strengthening its relationships with countries with which it already 
has FTAs in place. Japan hopes that these RTAs and FTAs will both complement and contribute to 
the multilateral trading system. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  4.63.  With respect to trade facilitation measures, Morocco is now streamlining its customs 
procedures, including computerization such as the use of e-payment and digital signatures, and so 
forth. We understood that Morocco has already ma de measures under Category A, but has not yet 
accepted the TF agreement protocol. We expect its early acceptance. 
4.64.  In conclusion, I would like to express our strong wish to continue cooperation between 
Morocco and Japan. 
NEW  ZEALAND 
4.65.  New Zealand has an active interest in Morocco’s trade and investment policies. Our trade is 
dominated by the symbiotic exchange of phosphat es for food. Morocco is New Zealand’s single 
biggest source of phosphate fertiliser. In some years as much as 85% of New Zealand’s phosphate supply comes from Morocco. We use that phosphate fertiliser to grow food, some of which is 
exported back to Morocco.  
4.66.  New Zealand congratulates Morocco on its economic performance over the past seven years 
since its last Trade Policy Review (TPR) in 2009. It is clear that the trade reforms introduced and 
implemented since then have greatly contributed through stimulating domestic competition and 
innovation. In addition to solid agricultural growth, Morocco is actively committed to diversified, and sustainable, economic growth. 
4.67.  We have also welcomed the way in which Morocco has worked to reduce and eliminate fossil 
fuel subsidies. This initiative reduces distortions and enhances trade flows, as well as improving the environment. We note that the announcement of these reforms was made by Morocco’s Head of State, underlining the seriousness with which these reforms will be prosecuted. We also wanted 
to underline the significance that we attach to th is issue for all WTO Members and look forward to 
hearing more on this, including through the Trade Policy Review process. 
4.68.  Morocco’s ambitious targets and successes to increase fisheries production and develop the 
aquaculture sector, through the new Halieutis development strategy for the period up to 2020, 
should be celebrated. At the same time however, we encourage Morocco to ensure development of this sector is done so sustainably, and thro ugh the implementation of an effective quota 
management system, to ensure these successes are lasting and deliver net economic gains. 
4.69.  While Morocco has demonstrated its commitment to open trade, some concerns remain, and 
our written questions submitted in the context of this TPR address some of those concerns.  We note, for example, in relation to Morocco’s applied MFN tariffs the Secretariat concludes that 
despite tariff reform in recent years "tariff protection remains high in the agricultural sector, with 
rates of at least 30% for a total of 210 tariff lines … the effect of these tariffs on Morocco’s trade is 
to strongly deter imports of these products and push up their costs for consumers". 
4.70.  We encourage Morocco to extend its tariff reforms to the agri-business sector, as an 
effective means to lower the cost of production and increase local industry competitiveness. 
4.71.  As a WTO Member who relies on international trade in agricultural products for its 
prosperity, New Zealand has a particular interest in ensuring that food regulatory systems are 
science-based and implemented consistent with  the SPS Agreement. We note that the SPS 
Agreement calls on WTO Members to base their measures on international standards. We are interested to learn more, through this TPR, about the extent to which Morocco's standards and 
technical regulations are based on international standards, including those of the International 
Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the Codex Alimentarius for food products. 
4.72.  In conclusion, the reports by the Kingdom of Morocco and the Secretariat illustrate the 
positive economic trajectory of economic reform in  Morocco that will have positive trade, economic 
and environmental effects. Morocco’s story of economic reform and growth stands as a bold example to other regional states, and one that as a trading partner of increasing prominence, 
New Zealand warmly welcomes. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  RUSSIAN  FEDERATION 
4.73.  The continuous growth of the Moroccan econ omy, with an average annual rate of 3.7%, 
enables us to give an overall positive assessm ent of the economic policies pursued by the 
authorities of Morocco. This is particularly true with regard to the ability of Rabat to maintain a 
macro-financial stability and ensure the resilience of its economy despite the economic hardships 
during the review period. Trade reforms implemented by the Moroccan Government since the last TPR have also contributed to this performance.  
4.74.  The Russian Federation and Morocco are developing broad cooperation in trade and 
investment, specifically in energy, agriculture and fishery sectors. The amount of our bilateral trade in goods has doubled since 2009, reaching US$1,5 billion in 2014. We are confident that our countries have a good potential to further enhance bilateral trade and increase investment flows.  
4.75.  Prior to this review Russia has submitted a number of questions regarding certain SPS and 
TBT measures. We thank the delegation of Morocco  for the answers provided and will consider 
them thoroughly. 
4.76.  To conclude, we would like to thank you, Mr. Chairman, the delegation of Morocco, the 
Secretariat and the Discussant, for the work done so far and wish Morocco a successful Trade Policy Review. 
CHINA 
4.77.  Morocco’s economy has performed quite well during the review period. Its economy 
continues to grow at an average annual rate of 3.7% and develop in many sectors. This strong 
performance is mainly attributed to its strategy of economic diversification, domestic consumption, 
attraction of foreign direct investment and progressive trade liberalization. It is impressive that 
trade once again proves to be an important engine for economic growth, which promotes competition and encourages innovation. Morocco’s merchandise trade and services trade have fully 
recovered from the financial crisis and maintain a steady growth, with export and import of goods 
increasing more than 10% annually. Morocco’s outward investment is also growing at a fast pace thanks to its foreign investment policy targeting sub-Saharan African countries. We encourage 
Morocco to continue its liberalization and reform efforts in areas such as trade and investment, 
exchange rate, and capital account. We also note that Morocco has adopted several decrees to help small and medium-sized enterprises, and we expect more detailed measures to be taken to help them integrate into the global economy.  
4.78.  Coming to the multilateral front, we commend that Morocco has fully embraced the 
multilateral trading system ever since the GATT era. Morocco has a unique position in the trade 
history for being the place where the WTO Agreement is borne. Having been the coordinator for 
the African Group, Morocco actively participated in WTO negotiations and fighting for a more 
balanced, equitable and viable multilateral trading system for developing members. We look forward to work with Morocco and other Members towards a successful multilateral conclusion of 
the Doha round in accordance with its existing mandate and architecture. We are pleased to know 
that Morocco has implemented a series of trade facilitation actions, and we expect the Moroccan 
government to accelerate its pace in ratifying the Agreement on Trade Facilitation.   
4.79.  Bilateral economic ties continue to deepen in a rapid and profound manner between China 
and Morocco. China is the fourth largest trading partner of Morocco, while Morocco is China’s sixth 
largest trading partner in Africa. According to our statistics, bilateral trade has increased from US$2.5 billion to US$3.5 billion during the review period. Two-way investment is also flourishing in 
a range of sectors including fishery cooperation, manufacturing and energy-efficient lightning. We 
have raised some questions about Morocco’s trade policy, covering the areas of foreign direct investment, government procurement and transparency. We appreciate the Moroccan delegation 
for their responses to our questions, which we will study carefully. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  REPUBLIC  OF KOREA 
4.80.  We are pleased to note that Korea and Morocco continue to maintain close economic ties 
and that the bilateral trade volume reached US$545  million dollars in 2014. Korea hopes that its 
economic cooperation with Morocco will continue to grow and develop in the future. 
4.81.  Turning to Morocco’s overall economic performance, we would like to congratulate Morocco 
for achieving continued GDP growth at an annual av erage rate of 3.7% during the review period 
and doubling its per capita income over the last ten years to reach US$3,250 in 2014. Investment 
also remained high level as it averaged around 35%  of GDP, one of the high est rates in the region. 
Thanks to substantial investment, Morocco succeeded in diversifying its economy. It became one of the leading global producers of automobiles and motor vehicles as well as a leader in the aeronautical industry. Apart from tourism, transport and financial services were among the most 
dynamic service activities during this period, while the agricultural sector was still the largest 
source of employment. 
4.82.  Despite these positive achievements, our delegation noted some areas in which 
considerations for further improvement might be necessary. We would like to take this opportunity 
to point out two items for consideration. 
4.83.  First, we would like to touch upon some conc erns over the complexity of the Moroccan tariff 
and tax system. As pointed out in the Secretaria t report, there remain around 800 tariff lines for 
which applied rates exceed Morocco’s WTO bound rate s. Moreover, a vast array of other duties and 
taxes such as stamp duty, storage tax, administrative fees and computer tax are imposed on imports alone. The taxation system is further comp licated by two VAT regimes: an internal regime 
and an import regime. We encourage the Moroccan government to reform its complex tariff and 
tax system in such a way that is consistent with the WTO rules and will facilitate trade and investment. 
4.84.  Second, Korea appreciates Morocco for adopting the new legal framework to govern trade 
remedy measures. However, we note that Moro cco, which had not taken any anti-dumping duty 
action at the time of its previous TPR, introduced several anti-dumping measures on imports 
during this time. Taking into account their advers e effects on trade, it would be advisable that 
more prudent approaches be taken in initiating anti-dumping investigations. 
4.85.  It is our hope that Morocco will continue to actively participate in strengthening the WTO 
multilateral trading system. Welcoming the fact that Morocco notified its Category A commitments, 
we also hope that it will complete its ratification procedures to accept the Trade Facilitation 
Agreement (TFA) as soon as possible.  
4.86.  With this, we would like to conclude by expre ssing our sincere appreciation to the Moroccan 
delegation for its hard work and wish Morocco every success in its TPR. 
ARGENTINA 4.87.  Argentina is most interested to note Morocco 's economic and trade development. In that 
context we value the profound reforms and structural changes that Morocco has been making in 
order to achieve the sustained growth that generates employment. Worthy of note is the comprehensive legislative overhaul that includes both specific laws on trade policies and investment and the regulatory framework itself, as embodied in July 2011 by the adoption of a 
new Constitution focused on enhancing democracy and human rights. We note in particular that 
the new Constitution guarantees citizens access to a healthy environment, water, and sustainable development. 
4.88.  Argentina regards Morocco's efforts to sustain macroeconomic stability while ensuring a 
relatively high level of economic openness and liberalization in foreign trade as extremely positive; its strategy has performed well despite the global economic crisis that has affected most countries. 
The fact that its economy has grown every year since its previous trade policy review in 2009, at 
an annual average rate of 3.7%, illustrates the success of the legislative reforms it has adopted. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  4.89.  We underscore the work Morocco is doing to revitalize its economy by stimulating 
competition in its domestic markets. Among the measures taken, we anticipate that the establishment of the Competition Council and the introduction of the Moroccan Accreditation System will be effective in the short and medium term in creating new jobs in the economy. The 
focus of the measures includes encouraging innovation, and they are in tune with other changes 
Morocco has made to its regulations in fields such as intellectual property. 
4.90.  Argentina congratulates Morocco on this and other legislative initiatives such as the new 
consumer protection law of 2009, the new law on public-private partnerships of 2012 and the new 
fisheries law on action to prevent and combat unreported and unregulated fishing. We hope they will prove to be effective instruments that Morocco can use to drive its economy; diversify exports and traditional trading partners; and deliver th e sustainable development guaranteed in the 
country's new constitution. 
4.91.  Additionally, we note the success of Morocco's focus on measures to improve the country's 
business climate. This is reflected for example in the high levels of foreign investment in Morocco 
in 2013 (US$4,639 million) and 2014 (US$4,032 mil lion) compared to 2011 (US$3,221 million) 
and 2012 (US$3,719 mi llion). Investment in industry in Morocco rose from US$6.4 million in 2008 
to US$39.2 million in 2013, reflecting the global interest that Morocco's industry is attracting, and 
we hope that this will translate into economic and social benefits for the country's inhabitants. 
4.92.  Argentina would like to highlight Morocco's commitment to international trade, and shares 
its efforts to contribute to a fair an d balanced multilateral trading system. 
4.93.  As part of this trade policy review, Argentina recently submitted some questions to Morocco 
on issues that include its law on unreported and unregulated fishing, and the Green Morocco Plan 
2008-2020, implemented by the Ministry of Agricu lture and Marine Fisheries. We appreciate the 
replies we have received so far, which will be studied in depth. 
4.94.  Argentina wishes to continue working with Morocco to deepen our bilateral ties, and in so 
doing support the country on its way to improving living conditions for its people. Argentina is willing to make every effort to expand relati ons between the two countries in the areas of 
agriculture, science, technology and health. 
4.95.  To conclude, in reiterating our appreciation of this new opportunity to exchange information 
and comments on the trade policies and practices of Morocco we would like to draw attention once again to the importance of this exercise in tran sparency from every point of view. We wish the 
Moroccan authorities a successful conclusion to this review. 
TURKEY 4.96.  Since leaving Morocco in 2010 after spending three unforgettable years there as 
Turkish Ambassador, I am pleased to see that Morocco has pursued its strategy to diversify the 
economy and liberalize foreign trade. I am also pleased to note that this liberalization strategy has led to sound economic performance with real economic growth of close to 3.7% during the period 
under review, despite the negative impacts of the global economic crisis. Moreover, Morocco's per 
capita income has doubled over the last ten years and reached US$3,250 in 2014. Additionally, Morocco maintained its moderate inflation and inte rest rates over the same period. I congratulate 
Morocco on these macroeconomic and trade policy achievements. 
4.97.  Turning to the trade and investment regime, I note that Morocco has substantially revised 
its legislative framework in this area. It has undertaken important reforms to facilitate trade and reduce customs clearance times for goods in ports and customs areas, involving the introduction of 
a computerized customs processing system. Nonetheless, as noted in the World Economic Forum 
Report 2014, more reforms are needed in terms of  intellectual property protection, innovation, 
labour market regulation and the quality of hi gher education. We would therefore encourage 
Morocco to continue its reforms in these areas. We are sure that additional reforms will enhance 
Morocco's international competitiveness and consolidate its sustainable growth. 
4.98.  Concerning sectoral policies of Morocco, I would like to touch briefly on the agriculture and 
tourism sectors. As referred to in the Secretariat report, Morocco is a major producer and exporter WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  of agricultural products. Agriculture is a sector of key importance for the development of Moroccan 
economy. Within this scope, Morocco considerably increased and diversified its agricultural exports during the review period. However, the performa nce of Morocco's agricultural sector largely 
depends on weather conditions. In this context, I would like to underline that full implementation 
of the "Green Morocco Plan 2008-2020", aiming at  developing and modernizing the agricultural 
sector, which would help make Morocco's agriculture a driver of economic and social development would enhance agricultural productivity, increase international competitiveness and improve the 
sustainability of environmental protection, in  particular by efficient use of water.  
4.99.  Besides that, tourism is also of central importance for the Moroccan economy. In 2014, 
tourism revenue accounted for nearly 7% of the GDP of Morocco. The positive trend in tourism continued during the period under review. In 2014, more than 10 million tourists visited this 
beautiful and diversified country.  
4.100.  On bilateral side, Turkey and Morocco have always enjoyed good historical, cultural and 
social relations. Morocco is one of the first countries in North Africa with which Turkey signed a 
Free Trade Agreement. I am pleased to note that our bilateral economic and commercial relations 
have been on an upward trend since the implementation of the FTA in 2006. According to the more recent data, our bilateral trade volume exceeded US$2 billion in 2014 up from US$1,3 billion in 
2013. However, I believe that these figures are still far from reflecting the real potentials of our 
two economies. In this context, we envisage to increase the trade volume between Turkey and Morocco to US$3 billion in the medium term. Furthermore, Turkey continues to contribute to the infrastructure development in Morocco. The total value of the projects (46 projects) undertaken by 
Turkish companies has reached US$3,4 billion in the end of 2015.  
4.101.  A s i d e  f r o m  t h i s ,  w e  a l s o  h a v e  a  g o o d  p a r t n e r s h i p  w i t h  M o r o c c o  i n  t h e  p a n - E u r o -
Mediterranean Cooperation, the so called Barcelon a Process, in various fields such as rules of 
origin and establishing a Euro-Mediterranean-wide free trade area for goods and services. 
4.102.  Before concluding, it is worth noting that Morocco has demonstrated its commitment to 
trade liberalization. However, some protectionist trade policy measures implemented last year by 
Morocco become a source of concern for us. In this context, we submitted written questions to the 
Secretariat concerning Morocco’s trade policies and practices. We look forward to receiving detailed responses to in due course.  
CHILE 
4.103.  Relations between Chile and Morocco are conducted in a framework of mutual 
understanding and cooperation. In addition to it s Embassy in Rabat, Chile has a presence through 
honorary consulates in Tangiers, Marrakesh and Casablanca. 
4.104.  At the political level, 2015 was a very fruitful year in terms of two-way visits and contacts 
between our countries. During the first six months former Chilean President Ricardo Lagos visited Morocco to take part in the Crans Montana Forum on Africa and South-South Cooperation and 
Minister Delegate Mbarka Bouaida came to Chile in April 2015. 
4.105.  In November 2015 Chile's Under-Secretary for Foreign Affairs and his counterpart, 
Minister Delegate Mbarka Bouaida, chaired the Po litical Dialogue between the two countries, and a 
Seminar on Trade Policy and Investment Opport unities in Chile was held in Casablanca. 
4.106.  Finally a Chilean public-private mission led by the Director of Bilateral Economic Affairs, 
Mr Pablo Urria, visited Morocco in November 2015. 
4.107.  That visit affords a new opportunity to pick up the threads of a five-year joint work plan 
that will boost trade relations, and to study aspect s of working together in the interests of trade. 
4.108.  At the economic level, our two countries are in agreement on the subject of economic 
openness. The Moroccan market is of interest to Chile as well as being an excellent launch pad to 
other North African countries. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  4.109.  Bilateral trade between Chile and Morocco in 2014 stood at US$9 million; generally imports 
from Morocco were stronger, with an ensuin g negative balance of payments for Chile. 
4.110.  Chile's leading exports to Morocco are butter (US$0.68 million) and fungicides 
(US$0.38 million). There was a high level of concentration in exports of agricultural, viniviticultural 
and forestry goods in 2014. 
4.111.  In turn, imports of Moroccan goods to Chile consisted chiefly of industrial oils 
(US$2.7 million), and copper ores and concentrates  (US$2.1 million) with significant performance 
from other goods such as agricultural produc ts, manufactures for clothing, and vegetables. 
4.112.  Both Chile and Morocco have on various occasions demonstrated political will to develop an 
agreement facilitating bilateral trade flows. 
4.113.  Since October 2012 initiatives have been launched to reach a wide-ranging trade 
agreement between Chile and Morocco. To date, it has been agreed to hold technical meetings 
between DIRECON and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Morocco. 
4.114.  It is admirable to note the positive aspects highlighted in the Secretariat and the 
Government reports on the development of economic and trade policy in this important Member of 
the WTO, which Chile underscores as follows: 
4.115.  First, the economy's 3.7% growth in real GDP since the previous review. 
4.116.  Morocco's strategy of economic diversification and investment in transport infrastructure. 
4.117.  The country's trade liberalization process, as evidenced not only in this Organization but 
also in the number of trade agreements signed. And the reform of customs import duties, which 
has reduced both the number of rates and the levels of duty. 
4.118.  Morocco's determination to reduce its fiscal expenditure signals the initiation of a 
far-reaching reform process in a challenging international economic environment. 
4.119.  We note with interest that in order to pursue its countercyclical fiscal and monetary policy 
and maintain macroeconomic stability, the Government has begun to phase out fiscal stimulus 
measures and has implemented structural reforms and measures to reduce fiscal and external vulnerabilities. 
4.120.  We also highlight with great interest the adoption of trade facilitation measures during the 
period under review, especially digital signat ure of customs declarations, e-payment, and 
electronic validation of bank guarantees. 
4.121.  While commending Morocco for its laudable de velopment efforts, we wish Minister Abbou 
and his delegation every success in their country's fifth trade policy review. Salaam alaikum. 
THAILAND 4.122.  In 2015, the trade value between Thailand and Morocco was US$165.6 million. With 
exports and imports valued at US$95.49 million an d US$70.1 million, respectively. Thailand's main 
imports from Morocco include fish, articles of apparel, and electrical devices and parts. While major exports consist of automobiles, refrigerators, and artificial staple fibers. 
4.123.  Thailand would like to congratulate Morocco on its average annual economic growth of 
3.7% during the review period, despite the financial crisis of 2008. 
4.124.  We commend Morocco for the intensive reforms undertaken, reducing the average MFN 
tariff rate from 20.2% in 2009 to 12.5% in 2015, with average rate for agricultural products 
decreased from 44.5% in 2009 to 30% in 2015, and non-agricultural products from 16.3% in 2009 
to 9.5% in 2015. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  4.125.  Thailand also appreciates Morocco's other reform efforts, especially in competition policy, 
intellectual property and government procurement. 
4.126.  In this review, Thailand submitted several questions to Morocco covering, among others, 
insurance-subsidizing scheme for agricultural products, privatization of state-owned enterprises, 
and intellectual property. 
4.127.  We look forward to Morocco's responses to our questions and will study them in detail with 
great interest. 
4.128.  In conclusion, Thailand would like to express our appreciation to the delegation of Morocco 
for today's presentation. We wish Morocco every success in this Trade Policy Review. 
KINGDOM  OF SAUDI  ARABIA 
4.129.  Despite the daunting challenges due to the global financial and economic crisis, the 
Moroccan economy remained strong and open. The real GDP annual growth averaged nearly 4% 
during the period 2009-2014. The Moroccan Government has maintained its strategy to diversify its economy, liberalize its foreign trade regime and improve its business climate. These efforts 
gave Morocco a ranking of 71st out of 189 countries  in the World Bank Doing Business report of 
2015. 
4.130.  The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia welcomes the efforts of the Kingdom of Morocco in sustaining 
macroeconomic stability and pursuing an open, liberal, and transparent trade and investment 
regime. Since its last review, the Government  has significantly undertaken large stimulus 
structural reforms in different sectors such as, finance, tax and subsidy systems, tariff lines, trade defence measures, investment, government procur ement, small and medium-sized enterprises, 
customs procedures, action to combat fraud, and protection of intellectual property rights. 
4.131.  We also commend the Moroccan Government for its strategic guidelines that focus on the 
diversification of economic growth sources and the implementation of sector strategies such as the 
new industrial strategy for 2014-2020 to strengthen Morocco’s position in global value chains, the 
Morocco Green Plan (PMV) of 2008 to develop an d modernize the agricultural sector, the new 
Halieutis plan to ensure the sustainability of fi shery resources, the Vision 2020 for tourism, and the 
Vision 2015 for the craft industry.  
4.132.  Saudi Arabia and Morocco are prominent trading partners; trade exchange between the 
two countries surpassed 10 billion Saudi Riyals in 2013. Saudi Arabia is among the largest investors in Morocco. The Saudi-Moroccan Joint Commission for Bilateral economic and technical 
Cooperation was established in 1976 to promote cooperation in trade, investment, transportation, 
housing, infrastructure, agriculture, and tourism. In 2013, a joint investment fund with a capital of 
800 million Moroccan dirham was established by the Governments of the two countries.  
4.133.  In addition, a Saudi-Moroccan Business Council (SMBC) was established to boost 
commercial and investment ties between the two countries. One of the biggest achievements of 
the council was the project of a new shipping line between Jeddah and Casablanca which will 
increase trade exchange between the two countries by at least 20%, and further create new 
investment opportunities. 
4.134.  Morocco has proved its commitment to support the multilateral trading system and the 
WTO and has demonstrated its desire to continue to play an active role in the promotion of free 
and open trade. 
4.135.  In this regard, I would like to appreciate the active role of H. E. Ambassador Auajjar and 
his delegation in the Arab group and in WTO negotiations and other activities at large. 
MONTENEGRO 
4.136.  At the outset, Montenegro would like to associ ate itself with the statement of the European 
Union. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  4.137.  Montenegro would like to highlight Morocco’s implementation of trade reforms since its last 
Trade Policy Review.  
4.138.   As the Government of Morocco notes in its report, Morocco has continued to implement a 
policy of foreign trade liberalization, export development and integration into the world economy. 
This has entailed a range of steps including updating the Moroccan legal framework to strengthen 
openness; a sustained policy on import liberalizati on and export capacity building and enhanced 
regional and bilateral trade cooperation.  
4.139.  We noted that one of the results of Moroccan trade liberalization is that strong and 
sustained economic growth of 3.7% has been realised between 2009–2014 despite the global 
financial crisis. Although much of this success is attributable to trade reforms, it is also due to growth in household consumption (which represen ts 60% of GDP), increased inflows of foreign 
direct investment and increased labour market flexibility. Indeed, Montenegro notes that increased 
labour market flexibility has resulted in the creation of nearly two million jobs since 2000. Although unemployment remains at 9.9%, it has reduced by 3.7% over the same period. 
Montenegro hopes that this excellent trend will continue. We also recognize that a number of 
infrastructure development projects – ports, ro ads, telecommunications- were also launched or 
completed during the period 2009-2014 and have positively impacted international trade and 
investment climate in the country. 
4.140.  Morocco has concluded an impressive number of regional and bilateral trade cooperation 
agreements; it has also engendered strong trad ing ties with the European Union. Montenegro 
congratulates Morocco in this regard. Having concluded nine free trade agreements with 56 states 
and seven limited scope preferential trade agreements  is in itself an impressive achievement that 
will benefit the Moroccan economy. But negotiat ing the extension of four other agreements; 
securing the establishment of an industrial free zone with the European Union in 2012; and 
ensuring the entry into force of an agriculture agreement with the European Union in 2012, are 
further noteworthy achievements.  
4.141.  At the same time, Morocco is an original WTO Member with an active engagement in the 
multilateral trading system. Montenegro has recognized that and has continuously supported 
Morocco's aspiration in different fora of the multilateral system and across its institutions. Montenegro will also continue to follow closely the implementation of the government's current objectives to continue opening up the economy to foreign trade, to promote sustainable 
development, particularly in agriculture, to deve lop renewable energy sources and to develop rural 
areas, notably through eco-tourism. In addition, Montenegro stands ready to step up its efforts to increase cooperation between two governments and our business communities. 
4.142.  Finally, Montenegro is looking forward to continuing excellent and constructive 
engagement with the delegation of Morocco in Geneva and my distinguished colleague Ambassador His Excellency Mr. Mohamed Auajjar. We wish Morocco every success in its Trade 
Policy Review. 
CÔTE
 D'IVOIRE 
4.143.  The delegation of Côte d'Ivoire welcomes the Kingdom of Morocco's commitment and 
determination to continue the process of modernizing and diversifying its economy. 
4.144.  This is highlighted in the WTO Secretariat report, which states that since the last TPR in 
2009, Morocco has continued its strategy to diversify its economy, invest in transport infrastructure, and gradually liberalize trade. Th is has led to strong performance of the Moroccan 
economy, which has continued to grow by an average of 3.7% per year within a stable 
macroeconomic framework. Such economic performance has clearly had beneficial effects for certain economies of the South, including that of Côte d'Ivoire. 
4.145.  Cooperation between Côte d'Ivoire and the Ki ngdom of Morocco, the foundations of which 
were laid in the time of his Excellency Mr Félix Houphouët Boigny, the founding father of modern Côte d'Ivoire, and His Majesty King Hassan II of Morocco, has been strengthened and diversified 
under His Majesty King Mohammed VI of Morocco, and the Ivorian Head of State, 
His Excellency Mr Alassane Ouattara, through the signature of around 50 cooperation agreements WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  covering areas such as infrastructure, social housin g, ports, fisheries, agriculture, mining, tourism, 
finance, pharmaceuticals, the environment, health and training. 
4.146.  The cooperative links between Côte d'Ivoire an d Morocco thus appear to bear witness to a 
productive win-win, South-South cooperation mode l. We can only encourage and support Morocco 
in its persistent and tireless quest for sustainable economic development. 
4.147.  The delegation of Côte d'Ivoire wishes the Kingdom of Morocco every success in this 
fifth trade policy review, and hopes that the ensuing measures to improve and strengthen the 
foundations of the Moroccan economy will help to boost and consolidate the multisectoral 
cooperation between Côte d'Ivoire and Morocco to the benefit of the peoples of both countries. 
CHAD 4.148.  Chad welcomes the signature of several econom ic and trade agreements, especially in the 
area of transport. In Chad's view, the opportunities for the economic operators of our 
two countries are huge. Chad also welcomes the consolidation of the trade and tariff agreement with Morocco, dating from 1997, on exemptions fr om customs duties and taxes having equivalent 
effects for certain products. 
4.149.  We welcome the many initiatives, economic and trading reforms undertaken by the 
Government to make the Kingdom of Morocco an emerging economy, especially the introduction of 
a strategic policy of diversification and development planning. This approach will help to achieve 
strong economic growth that generates employment. 
4.150.  It is obvious today that the trade policy that Morocco decided to implement has 
strengthened liberalization, especially by streamlining foreign trade procedures, introducing an 
environment conducive to business and investment development, expanding its trade and 
economic relations and contributing to a stronger rules-based multilateral trading system and the stability of the global economy. 
4.151.  The multilateral trading system was recently reaffirmed in the Nairobi Declaration, which 
underscores the pre-eminence of the WTO as the global forum for trade rules-setting and governance. 
4.152.  Morocco's many resources give it huge potential to attract investment. The country has 
vast expanses of land and a young population, giving it extraordinary potential to attract and benefit from foreign direct investment. 
4.153.  However the recent economic crisis has affected the Moroccan economy and contributed to 
the slowdown in economic growth, leading the Government to take measures to address the 
situation. 
4.154.  From that point of view we endorse the recommendations made; these will help to boost 
the competitiveness of the Moroccan economy thro ugh the development of infrastructure and a 
more coordinated approach to fostering entrepreneurship. 
4.155.  Chad encourages the Kingdom of Morocco to pursue its efforts and requests the support of 
the community of financial and technical partners to assist it in implementing development 
policies. 
4.156.  The Chadian delegation hopes that this excellent document on the Kingdom of Morocco's 
trade policy can help Morocco to attract greater flows of investment for a more sustainable future. 
REPUBLIC
 OF THE CONGO 
4.157.  Congo and Morocco have long had friendly relations and the political, commercial and 
economic cooperation between them is an exampl e of South-South cooperation that grows deeper 
and more close-knit year on year. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  4.158.  This is demonstrated by the official visit to Congo in 2006 of 
His Majesty King Mohammed VI, accompanied by se veral business leaders. More recently around 
100 Moroccan investors came to Pointe-Noire in June 2013 on a visit led by His Excellency Mr Abdelkader Amara, Minister for Industry, Trade and New Technologies, which led to several 
agreements in various areas of economic activity. 
4.159.  The Kingdom of Morocco has diversified its relations with other African partners: CEMAC, 
WAEMU, COMESA and ECOWAS, especially in the se rvices sector (banks, insurance, vocational 
training, etc.). Various trade agreements to promote and protect investment have been adopted. 
4.160.  This approach, which Congo welcomes, could help in the establishment of African regional 
integration, which is the key aim of African leaders. 
4.161.  Congo is glad that the Kingdom of Morocco reaffirmed in its report its commitment to the 
multilateral trading system as a WTO Member and welcomes its active participation in the 
Doha Round negotiations and proceedings. 
4.162.  As is clear from the report, between 2009 and 2014, the Moroccan economy posted annual 
growth in the order of 4% – the result, among other things, of measures to stimulate domestic 
demand and a drive to secure investment, which accounts on average for over 35% of Morocco's GDP. 
4.163.  Over the same period, Morocco increased its investment abroad, especially in African 
countries, making it the second-largest African investor in Africa. 
4.164.  The Congolese delegation welcomes the multi- faceted reforms implemented by Morocco in 
areas such as justice, competition, government  procurement, and the construction of rural 
infrastructure (roads, electricity and water supply). 
4.165.  All these measures help to reinforce social cohesion, combat poverty and reduce regional 
and social disparities. I wish Morocco every success in this its fifth review and in implementing the 
resulting recommendations. 
SENEGAL
  
4.166.  Since it last came before the Trade Policy Review Body in 2009, Morocco has capitalized on 
the conclusions and recommendations to complete important economic and trade reforms that 
have helped improve the business environment, promote investment – which has grown by 7% 
over the past ten years – and anchor itself more firmly in global value chains. 
4.167.  At the same time, Morocco has continued its efforts to facilitate trade by shortening the 
time during which goods remain in ports and airp orts and by reducing tariffs. As noted in the 
Secretariat report, the average MFN tariff rate fell by 8% between 2009 and 2015, while duty on 
agricultural products fell by  14% over the same period. 
4.168.  This momentum argues for an extension of trade relations between Morocco and the other 
African countries, particularly those south of the Sahara with which important preferential and MFN agreements have been signed at both bilateral and regional levels. 
4.169.  The consolidation and strengthening of this privileged partnership should help to expand 
trade between Morocco and Sub-Saharan Africa, which grew by an average of 10% between 2004 and 2014. 
4.170.  Allow me to mention the special ties between the Kingdom of Morocco and the 
Republic of Senegal. Our two countries are bound  by a sound political, diplomatic and economic 
alliance built on a foundation of common, shared values. 
4.171.  Morocco and Senegal have historic and cultural ties spanning several centuries that are 
expressed in unfailing solidarity and significant relations of cooperation and trade. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  4.172.  By way of illustration of the vibrant cooperation between us, referred to as a model for 
South-South cooperation, our two countries have been bound by a trade agreement signed in 1963 and an establishment agreement concluded in 1964, guaranteeing national treatment to 
Moroccan businesses based in Senegal and reciprocity for Senegalese businesses established in 
Morocco. 
4.173.  Trade between the two countries was estimated at US$260 million in 2013. Senegal is also 
one of the top destinations for Moroccan investment in Sub-Saharan Africa with a cumulative value 
of close to US$221 million between 2008 and 2013, no tably in the banking sector and in a range of 
joint projects in fields that include electrification, maritime transport, and infrastructure. 
4.174.  I congratulate you and the entire Government of the Kingdom of Morocco for the economic 
performance you have achieved: it has resulted in the creation of jobs and a reduction in poverty 
despite a challenging international economic environment. 
4.175.  Senegal urges Morocco to persist in its commitment and efforts to further open up its 
economy to trade and global value chains, in partic ular by continuing to reduce tariff protection, 
eliminating quantitative restrictions, streamlining foreign trade procedures, in order to complete 
the structural transformation of the Morocca n economy and achieve measures that will 
undoubtedly contribute to more inclusive and sustainable growth. 
4.176.  The Senegalese delegation welcomes the positive contribution made to the work of the 
WTO by the Moroccan delegation led by Ambassador Au ajjar. I should like to close by wishing the 
Moroccan delegation every success in its country's trade policy review. 
ZAMBIA 
4.177.  My delegation is pleased to note that since the last review in 2009, the Government of the 
Kingdom of Morocco has remained on track in implementing reforms aimed at creating a conducive economic and business environment. 
4.178.  Of particular interest are the measures take n by the Government such as the economic 
diversification programme and the implementation  of liberal trade and investment regimes, 
especially during a period when the global economy is still going through a lot of stress. 
4.179.  As highlighted in the two reports, it is very pleasing to note that arising from these reforms 
the Government has made major strides in terms of stimulating growth, employment and human development in the domestic economy. For example, despite the negative effects of the 2008 global financial crisis, Morocco is among the countries that managed to record positive growth 
rates and maintained its annual rate of inflation in single digit. 
4.180.  With regard to human development, we have  noted the considerable progress that has 
been made as shown by the progressively increased levels of expenditure on education and health 
among other sectors. 
4.181.  In addition, we note the major efforts that have been made in terms of investment in 
energy and road infrastructure development particularly in rural areas with the view to reducing 
social and regional disparities in the country. These infrastructure projects have in turn 
encouraged both local and foreign direct investments. Morocco is now one of the leading producers of automobiles and motor vehicle accessories in the world. 
4.182.  T o  t h i s  e n d ,  m y  d e l e g a t i o n  w i s h e s  t o  commend and applaud the Government of the 
Kingdom of Morocco for the efforts undertaken towards the effective implementation of the various 
developmental initiatives that have had a major positive impact on its economy. 
4.183.  I wish to confirm that Zambia will take many lessons from the resilient economic 
performance of the Kingdom of Morocco since the last review and indeed from the insightful 
discussions and feedback that the country has received through this interaction. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  YEMEN 
4.184.  This is a regular, timely review of trade policy conducted as part of a process focused on 
transparency and trade policy development. In the past this important process has helped to sustain the performance of the Moroccan economy and will no doubt do so in years to come. 
4.185.  Over recent years, Morocco's economy has experienced healthy growth and diversification 
alongside a few challenges and secondary effects chiefly caused by external factors related to the crisis. Over that time, Morocco has taken a number of measures and has liberalized various 
sectors of the economy, including services and trade in goods. 
4.186.  The Government and WTO Secretariat reports clearly show the major effort made since the 
previous review of Morocco's trade policy in June 2009. 
4.187.  The delegation of Yemen welcomes the initiative taken by the Moroccan Government and 
its well-established policy to open up the economy to the benefit of Morocco and the rest of the 
world. 
4.188.  Finally, I sincerely hope that this review will reach a successful conclusion and that 
WTO Members will support Morocco in its action plan to further develop its trade policy in the 
years to come. 
TUNISIA 
4.189.  The delegation of Tunisia wishes to congratulate its neighbour Morocco on the substantial 
efforts it has made since the country's previous trade policy review to pursue an economic and 
trade liberalization policy by delivering macroeconomic and institutional reforms, further opening up its economy, streamlining foreign trade procedures, establishing an environment conducive to 
developing investment, and expanding and diversif ying its trade and economic relations with its 
partners, including Tunisia. 
4.190.  The Moroccan economy has continued to grow at an average rate of 4% per year and to 
diversify since the previous review. The trade re forms and the stable macroeconomic environment 
have helped to sustain this performance. 
4.191.  As part of its liberalization strategy, Morocco has pursued its policy of opening up the 
economy, in particular by continuing to reduce tariff protection, eliminating quantitative 
restrictions, streamlining foreign trade procedures, creating an environment conducive to the development of investment, and contributing to a stronger multilateral trading system. 
4.192.  The delegation of Tunisia notes that thanks to Morocco's numerous reforms to its trade 
regime, the economy has continued to grow vigorously. The reforms have helped to stimulate 
competition on domestic markets, encourage innovation and create new jobs – one of the main challenges facing the Moroccan economy. 
4.193.  The set of reforms should enable the economy to become even more competitive and 
make it easier to set up new companies and create new jobs. 
4.194.  For centuries, Tunisia and Morocco have had relations of friendship and cooperation on the 
bilateral, subregional, regional and multilateral levels. Those relations have been boosted by 
bilateral agreements between our two countries, th e Agadir Agreement and the Greater Arab Free 
Trade Area. 
4.195.  Tunisia and Morocco are working together to foster the emergence of a free trade area 
among the countries of the Arab Maghreb Union,  a market of over 90 million consumers, which 
would enable products to flow more freely between our countries in conformity with WTO commitments and would facilitate the construc tion of the Maghreb, a project to which the 
five countries of the region aspire. 
4.196.  Tunisia and Morocco are both developing countries that hold the same views on a large 
number of the topics under discussion in the multilateral negotiations at the WTO and are working WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  together to ensure that the development dimension is given greater importance in the outcome of 
the negotiations. 
4.197.  In this connection, I congratulate my friend and colleague, Ambassador Mohamed Auajjar, 
and his team for their active involvement in th e work of the WTO and in the ongoing round of 
trade negotiations under way here in Geneva. 
LESOTHO  ON BEHALF  OF THE AFRICAN  GROUP 
4.198.  First and foremost, the African Group recalls immense honour and pride that the Marrakesh 
Agreement, which manifested into the Marrakesh Declaration, was signed in the Kingdom of 
Morocco on the 15th April 1995.  
4.199.  It is imperative to note the strides that the Kingdom of Morocco has made in its trade 
performance as indicated by positive results in different industries including an overall average 
growth rate of 3.7% since the last review. 
4.200.  Among these, the African Group notes with satisfaction that the Kingdom of Morocco has 
made an impressive growth in automobile and aeronautical exports. Following the 2009 global 
melt down which saw many countries experience trade deficits, the Kingdom of Morocco has seen 
some considerable recovery with the gradual na rrowing of the gap between exports and imports 
leading to narrowed trade and balance of payments as noted in 2014. 
4.201.  Furthermore, the Africa Group commends th e strides that the Kingdom of Morocco has 
made in integrating WTO principles in her foreign trade policy. As a State party to many treaties and conventions, the Kingdom of Morocco has not only participated in their formulation but has 
also notably implemented an array of reforms in line with the principles of multilateralism. This 
was spelled out by the Minister and the discussants this morning. 
4.202.  The African Group takes this opportunity to equally highlight the growth of foreign direct 
investment by 7.8% in 2014, causing it to rank among the leaders in the African continent. This 
robust growth is largely attributed to constitutional reforms that were primarily aimed at improving 
the business environment. These included provisio ns for transparency, good governance, elevation 
of the fight against corruption, advancing human rights and individual freedoms. However, more 
directly linked to trade were objectives to gradually liberalize imports; to have export-oriented and 
environmentally sustainable agriculture; to focus on infrastructural development projects including 
ports, roads and telecommunications and also its effo rts to liberalize trade with the aim of striving 
for regional integration and trade cooperation. 
4.203.  All of these provide a good impetus in the continental integration agenda, testimony of 
which is found in Morocco becoming the second largest African investor in Africa. 
4.204.  In conclusion, the African Group calls on the WTO Members to take heed of challenges that 
the Kingdom of Morocco maybe be grappling with. The requests that the Kingdom of Morocco has 
tabled to members must be marked for careful consideration in order to enable her to mitigate those challenges. The Group particularly notes the commitment by Morocco of working towards 
conclusion of the DDA as well as promotion of LDCs’ specific issues 
4.205.  In light of the above mentioned areas of nota ble progress, the African Group applauds the 
Kingdom of Morocco and encourages her to continue on this path of economic growth. We wish Morocco a successful fifth Trade Policy Review. 
MALI 
4.206.  The delegation of Mali would like to thank and congratulate the Moroccan authorities for 
the clarity and precision of the report they have just presented to us. We appreciate Morocco's 
transparency and welcome the reform efforts th at have produced these remarkable results, 
including the place and role played by Moro cco in combating global warming through the 
harnessing of solar power in the Sahara. This energy policy makes Morocco a pioneer in this sector 
in Africa and paves the way for its economic emergence. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  4.207.  Mali has excellent political, economic and trade relations with the Kingdom of Morocco. I 
take this opportunity to renew Mali's thanks to the Moroccan authorities for their past and current endeavours to achieve a successful outcome to th e political and security crisis that has been 
rocking my country since 2012. 
4.208.  At the economic and trade levels, I would emphasize the exemplary cooperation that is 
constantly flourishing between Mali and Morocco in the areas of trade in goods, education and training, health, the banking and telecommunications sectors. 
4.209.  Mali reaffirms its willingness and determination to continue to nurture this fruitful 
South-South cooperation with the Kingdom of Morocco. 
4.210.  Finally, the delegation of Mali encourages the Government of Morocco to continue the 
reforms it has been making for the last few year s, to persist further in its efforts to combat 
poverty and to work for the economic and social development of Morocco for the benefit of all its 
people. 
REPUBLIC
 OF MOLDOVA 
4.211.  It is important to note Morocco's lengthy track-record, increased role and commitment in 
relation to the international trading system; it began in 1977 when Morocco gained the status of observer to the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), becoming the 94
th Contracting 
Party to the GATT in 1987. Subsequently, on 1 January 1995, Morocco became a Member of the 
WTO, and was the first developing country to expr ess a willingness to submit its trade regime to 
the GATT trade policy review mechanism in 1989. 
4.212.  Acting as arbiter and facilitator to the Marrakesh Ministerial Conference that marked the 
end of the Uruguay Round negotiations, and thanks to its lengthy track-record in the trade policy 
review mechanism, the Kingdom of Morocco has always advocated transparency and openness in global markets for goods and services, and has substantial commitment schedules both for trade 
in industrial and agricultural products and for trade in services. 
4.213.  Between 2009 and 2014, Morocco succeeded in increasing its per capita GDP by 3.7% 
annually to around US$3,250 in 2014. It has thus doubled its per capita income over the last 
decade. Thanks to its structural reforms and its policy of improving the business environment and 
promoting private investment, Morocco ranked 71
st (out of 189 countries) in the World Bank's 
Doing Business 2015  report. 
4.214.  The adoption of a new industrial strategy for 2014-2020 laid the necessary groundwork for 
the structural transformation of Morocco's econom y. Moldova hopes that the recent discovery of 
natural gas in Morocco will enhance economic development and reduce the country's energy 
vulnerability to import costs. 
4.215.  Some State subsidies for agricultural products, semi-manufactures, finished capital goods 
for industrial use and finished consumer goods have been cut but, having regard to Article 17 of the GATT, interventions and support for State tradin g companies continue to be aspects of concern 
and difficulties that need to be resolved for the good of global economic competition and in order 
to anchor Morocco more firmly in global value chains. 
4.216.  In relation to value added tax (VAT), in 2008 the United Nations Conference on Trade and 
Development (UNCTAD) advised Morocco to reduce  the number of rates and exemptions and to 
speed up the reimbursement process. The 2014 Finance Law introduced provisions on the 
repayment of VAT credits, and on combating informal activity. 
4.217.  The remarkable number of free trade agreements  that the Kingdom of Morocco has signed 
with over 56 countries and development partners helps to accelerate the integration of Morocco's 
economy into the world trading system by providing solely for the elimination of customs tariffs on trade in goods, reducing non-tariff barriers, stre amlining and facilitating customs procedures, and 
liberalizing trade in services. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  4.218.  Bilateral economic relations are still fairly modest but the economic potential of Moldova 
and Morocco is still largely unexploited. 
4.219.  It should be noted that the EU is still an important trading partner for Morocco and among 
its top foreign investors. As a neighbour of the European Union, the Republic of Moldova, the most 
francophone country in Eastern Europe, is increasingly interested in developing economic ties 
between small and medium-sized businesses in ou r two countries, and in enhancing mutually 
beneficial trade in the areas of agriculture and textiles. 
4.220.  The Ministry of the Economy of the Republic of Moldova has drawn up a bilateral 
agreement for signature with the Government of Morocco on the reciprocal promotion and protection of investment. The agreement was due to be signed in 2015 but was included in the action plan for 2016 during the forthcoming visit of  our Minister for Foreign Affairs and European 
Integration to the Kingdom of Morocco, in anticipation that signature will occur this year. 
4.221.  We congratulate the Government of the King dom of Morocco on the adoption of the new 
Constitution in 2011 incorporating new provisions on transparency, good governance and 
combating corruption, extending the prerogatives  of the Central Body for the Prevention of 
Corruption established in 2008, protecting investment, and harmonizing regulations on several aspects of the commercial and economic environment. 
4.222.  The delegation of the Republic of Moldova to the WTO wishes the delegation of the 
Kingdom of Morocco a pleasant stay in Geneva and every success in its country's fifth trade policy review. 
PAKISTAN 
4.223.  It is hearty to note that despite many challenges, Morocco has been able to achieve 
economic consolidation, which has contributed to growth. 
4.224.  It is commendable to note the concerted efforts by the Government of Morocco to achieve 
inclusive growth have contributed to job creation and enhance competitiveness. Moroccan 
Government has undertaken several reforms leading to such growth. Morocco has continued its strategy of diversifying its economy and of liberalizing its foreign trade. This has resulted in 
positive outcomes: average annual growth in real GDP was close to 4% during the period 
2009-2014 despite the negative impact of the global financial and economic crisis. The inflation remained low and absolute poverty was reduced, close to two million jobs were created since year 2000 together with 3.7% fall in unemployment.  
4.225.  In addition, over the last ten years, Morocco has become one of the chief destinations for 
foreign direct investment in the MENA region. 
4.226.  Structural changes have taken place in foreign trade both in terms of the products traded 
and geographical structure. The overall trade volume of Morocco is increasing, however, the 
balance is not tilted in its favour, which might have an impact on its macroeconomic stability.  
4.227.  Foreign trade indicators have been improving since 2013. Exports have risen more quickly 
than imports: by 7.9% compared to 0.6% respec tively, as a result of work to improve Moroccan 
exportable supply and better positioning of Morocco on target markets. The contribution of foreign 
trade to growth tended to be negative over the period 2011-2013, but that pattern was broken in 
2014. Morocco's foreign trade transactions had a positive impact on growth in Moroccan GDP in 
2014 and contributed 1.2 percentage points. Export s added 2.1 percentage points to GDP growth 
in 2014, compared to an average contribution of around 2 points over the period 2010-2014. By 
contrast, imports cost GDP growth 0.8 percentage  points in 2014, compared with an average of 
2 points over the period 2010-2014. 
4.228.  On the bilateral trade between Pakistan and Morocco, since 2012, trade value was slightly 
decreasing from US$366 million in 2012 to US$278 million in 2014. The balance of trade is in 
favour of Morocco. The trade potential is not fully exploited and the different reforms in Morocco's 
trade regime to further open up its economy will  definitely give boost to the bilateral trade 
between our two brotherly countries. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
- 31 - 
 
  4.229.  It is indeed very positive to note that Morocco has been able to reinforce its chosen path of 
liberalization, in particular by continuing to reduce tariff protection, eliminating quantitative restrictions, streamlining foreign trade procedures, creating an environment conducive to the development of business, investment and government procurement, and contributing to a stronger 
multilateral trading system. 
4.230.  We strongly encourage and support Morocco to carry on its trade reforms to achieve its 
objective of opening up its economy to foreign tr ade, to promote sustainable development and to 
develop rural areas. 
OMAN 4.231.  The Sultanate of Oman has longstanding cultural, historical and fraternal relations with the 
Kingdom of Morocco. We are both members of the Arab League, part of the MENA region and 
share many common identities and interests. 
4.232.  Oman and Morocco also collaborate closely within the WTO and in the Doha Round 
negotiations. 
4.233.  Oman congratulates Morocco on its impressive achievements in its economy and foreign 
trade. It has achieved a growth rate of 4% in its GDP during the 2009-2014 period. This was made 
possible by successful structural reforms undertaken by the Government. Investment has grown 
by 7% whereas exports have increased by around 8% since 2013. 
4.234.  Chapter 4 of Morocco's report title "A New Generation of Reforms" is a must read for all 
delegations. It gives a detailed account of wide ranging reforms undertaken by the Government. These include making the legal framework more business friendly and encouraging investment 
inflows particularly in infrastructure. Notably, Morocco has put in place effective programmes to 
reduce regional and social disparities, includ ing reduction of poverty and human development 
initiatives. 
4.235.  Morocco is a founding Member of the WTO and an active participant in the multilateral 
trading system since 1987 when it joined the GATT. It has actively participated in DDA negotiations as well as in various WTO bodies. 
4.236.  Morocco has bound import tariffs on all tariff lines. Of special note is its unilateral initiative 
to liberalize tariffs, whereby Morocco reduced its actual applied MFN tariffs from an average of 
20.2% to 12.5%. Its simple average of applied ta riffs on non-agricultural products is 9.5%. 
4.237.  Among the many trade reforms undertaken by Mo rocco there are legislative changes in the 
area of intellectual property. The level of industri al property protection has been raised, bringing 
its legislation into line with the TRIPs Agreement. 
4.238.  Not only is Morocco an active Member of the WTO, it is also a faithful adherent to the 
principles and rules of the multilateral trading system. 
QATAR 4.239.  Allow me to congratulate H.E the Minister  for his thorough, clear and comprehensive 
introductory statement this morning. This statement has given us a comprehensive update on the 
trade regime of the Kingdom of Morocco since the last review. 
4.240.  The State of Qatar enjoys a deep historical an d cultural relationship with the Kingdom of 
Morocco, spanning many areas of economic and political cooperation. As of 2015, Qatar is home to 
approximately 10,000 Moroccans and the volume of trade exchange has exceeded 400m Qatari 
riyals. 
4.241.  The kingdom of Morocco is a key player in the multilateral trading system and is a party to 
a number of bilateral and regional agreements. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
- 32 - 
 
  4.242.  We note with great satisfaction that, despite the adverse impact of the negative global 
financial and economic situation, the average annu al growth of the Kingdom of Morocco in real 
GDP was maintained at around 4% during the period 2009-2014. Moreover, since its last Trade Policy Review (TRP), Morocco has continued its efforts to consolidate growth through measures 
that include schemes that help attract foreign direct investment and undergoing internal economic 
reform. It has also continued to diversify and improve the competitiveness of its domestic sectors by designing and implementing several supply-develo pment strategies. In addition to that, in 2011 
Morocco adopted a comprehensive, modern legislative framework for trade that is compatible with 
its commitments under the WTO agreements and other trade agreements. This demonstrates the importance of trade in promoting economic grow th and developments in the Kingdom of Morocco. 
4.243.  In testament to Morocco’s resilient economy, Qatar has invested heavily across various 
sectors including tourism, housing and various infrastructure projects in Morocco. 
4.244.  In conclusion, we would like to reiterate our support to the reform undertaken by the 
Kingdom of Morocco since the last review in order to implement its commitments in the WTO. We 
are also confident that the new generation of reform s in Morocco will have a decisive effect on the 
economic governance in the Kingdom of Morocco. 
KINGDOM
 OF BAHRAIN 
4.245.  The Kingdom of Bahrain is delighted to be able to participate in the fifth Trade Policy 
Review of the Kingdom of Morocco, and would like to welcome the Moroccan delegation headed my H.E. Minister Mohammed Abbou and wish them a successful review. 
4.246.  Morocco is an important regional partner of Bahrain, sharing a strong economic 
relationship. The value of our total bilateral non-oil trade reached over 150M USD in 2015. This 
trade has been cemented by a number of bilatera l economic agreements such as Agreement on 
Economic, Trade and Technical Cooperation and Agreement for Promotion and Protection of 
Investments. 
4.247.  Therefore, we are happy to see that despit e challenges such as shocks faced by the 
financial crisis, Morocco’s economy has been able to continue to grow annually and that their 
goods exports has surpassed its 2008 levels. We are also delighted to see from the report that the 
numerous reforms to its trade regime since its last TPR in 2009 has resulted in a more open, diversified, and competitive economy that encourages foreign investment and innovation. 
4.248.  We would like to thank the discussant for his remarks and the WTO secretariat for their 
tireless effort in preparing this report. 
REPUBLIC
 OF GUINEA   
4.249.  The Kingdom of Morocco and the Republic of Gu inea have excellent relations of friendship 
and fruitful cooperation. This long-standing relationship steadily has become stronger over the 
years, as a result of mutual respect between our respective leaders. 
4.250.  I would therefore like to express my pleasure  in participating in the fifth trade policy 
review of Morocco, and greatly welcome the significant progress made by our fellow country since 
its previous review. 
4.251.  The two reports before us, namely the WTO Secretariat report and the Moroccan 
Government report, bear sufficient witness to the buoyancy of the Moroccan economy and the 
developments that have occurred since Morocco's previous trade policy review. 
4.252.  The various reforms to modernize the economy and the sectoral strategies implemented by 
Morocco are ample evidence that the Moroccan auth orities are keen to increase the transparency 
of Morocco's trade policies and practices and to fac ilitate the functioning of the multilateral trading 
system. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
- 33 - 
 
  4.253.  Morocco's trade policy is genuinely aimed at complying with the country's 
WTO commitments and at cooperating with Members, especially the poorest countries in the global economy. 
4.254.  In 2013, the economic and trade interflow between Morocco and Guinea stood at 
DH 691,500 million for exports to Guinea, and at DH 117.1 million for imports from Guinea. 
4.255.  In order to reverse the trend, or at least correct the imbalance, the Guinean and Moroccan 
authorities jointly agreed to increase cooperation in a number of spheres. Since the previous trade 
policy review, Morocco has accordingly embarked up on unprecedented, high-level cooperation with 
the Republic of Guinea. In addition to the State visits made by His Majesty King Mohammed VI of 
Morocco and President Alpha Condé of Guinea in 2014, Morocco and Guinea have also signed around 20 cooperation agreements in areas including trade, water, electricity, agriculture, 
telecommunications, infrastructure, transport, mining, education, fisheries, habitat and tourism. 
4.256.  With regard to trade, Morocco and Guinea regularly hold business forums. The most recent 
was in Conakry on 18 and 19 January 2016 and was attended by 140 representatives from the 
private sector including the top management of Casablanca Finance City, postal services 
specialists, and representatives from metallurgy companies. 
4.257.  In relation to market access, Guinea has al ways enjoyed quota-free, duty-free access for 
its products to the Moroccan market as a least developed country. 
4.258.  Cooperation in agriculture and fisheries involves supporting sustainable agricultural 
production and improving the management of natural resources in Guinea. It includes the development of irrigated agriculture, support for the value chain in the horticulture sector and 
building up the capacity of the Ministry of Agricult ure of Guinea. It also seeks to support Guinea in 
combating hunger and extreme poverty. 
4.259.  Trade in goods between the two countries is ma tched by trade in services. There is good 
cooperation in this sector between Moroccan and Guinean universities aimed at building up the 
capacity of Guinean universities to train executives in international trade, business law, etc. Many Guineans have received training and continue to benefit from the knowledge and expertise of 
Moroccan universities. 
4.260.  With regard to health, Moroccan hospitals regularly receive patients who have been 
medically evacuated from Guinea and this has helped to renew confidence and cement cooperation with the Guinean National Social Security Fund. 
4.261.  In the field of transport, the Moroccan airline, Royal Air Maroc, flies to Guinea seven days a 
week and has done so for several years, opening Guinea up and enabling it to maintain contact with the outside world even at the height of the Ebola epidemic that has ravaged Guinea in the last 
two years. 
4.262.  I should like to close my statement by thanking the Ambassador of France for his 
involvement and the sincerity of his statement,  but above all for the encouraging words he 
addressed to Morocco. I would also like to thank th e WTO Secretariat, especially the Trade Policies 
Review Division, for its report. In closing, I shou ld like to reiterate the thanks that the Guinean 
Government expressed to the Moroccan Government for hosting the WTO's 20
th anniversary 
celebration last year and for all the facilities that were made available to the Guinean delegation 
on that occasion. 
PANAMA 4.263.  Panama congratulates the Kingdom of Morocco on its economic performance during the 
period under review. The Moroccan economy has been able to tackle the challenging economic 
environment through public policies that have  facilitated economic growth by supporting 
investment, promoting business, introducing structural reforms to re-establish macroeconomic 
stability and reviving domestic demand, as a result of which Morocco became the second-largest 
African country for investment during the period under review. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
- 34 - 
 
  4.264.  We would also like to underscore the significant work Morocco has done to promote the 
openness and diversification of its economy, liberalize its foreign trade and continue with integration into the global economy as reflected in the signature by Morocco of various agreements and commitments at bilateral, regional and multilateral levels. 
4.265.  In that regard, Panama and Morocco have strengthened their bilateral relations with the 
signature of three important cooperation agreemen ts covering areas such as the promotion of 
cooperation in port issues, logistics and industrial zones where the aim is to internationalize 
businesses and facilitate international trade and logistical operations to import and export goods 
f r o m  b o t h  c o u n t r i e s .  P a n a m a  a n d  M o r o c c o  h a v e  a l s o  s i g n e d  a g r e e m e n t s  w i t h  a  v i e w  t o  strengthening their diplomatic and political ties. 
4.266.  We consider it relevant to highlight the social reforms undertaken by Morocco. We also 
welcome the adoption of a new political constitution which provides the country with an updated 
legal framework that has strengthened Morocco's policy of openness and reaffirmed its commitment to the multilateral system and the WTO rules. 
4.267.  Despite the major progress Morocco has made there is doubtless room for further 
improvement. We urge Morocco to take into consideration the recommendations of the Secretariat report and Members' concerns. 
4.268.  In closing we should like to congratulate Morocco on the considerable efforts it has made, 
the commitments it has assumed within the multilateral trading system, and its role in the ongoing trade negotiations in this Organization. We wish it a successful trade policy review. 
SINGAPORE 
4.269.  Singapore enjoys friendly relations with Morocco. Although our bilateral trade and 
investment flows are currently modest, we are confident that they will grow as Morocco becomes more integrated into the multilateral trading system.  
4.270.  We are encouraged by the reforms which Morocco has implemented since its last trade 
policy review in 2009, including the reduction of its average MFN tariff rate by 7.7%. Morocco’s pursuit of bilateral and regional free trade agreements has helped to liberalise its trade policy and 
integrate further into the global trading system.  
4.271.  We hope that Morocco will make continued efforts to further trade liberalisation and 
adherence to the multilateral trading system. One area for improvement is that of Morocco’s tariff structure. Applied rates for 792 of Morocco’s tariff lines still exceed their WTO bound rates. While 
the number has been reduced since 2009, we hope that Morocco will redouble efforts to bring its 
applied rates in conformity with its WTO obligations. We also call on Morocco to improve the timeliness of its notifications to the WTO.  
4.272.  Finally, we note the efforts that Morocco is making to implement the Agreement on Trade 
Facilitation and look forward to Morocco’s ratifica tion of the Agreement as soon as possible. This 
will undoubtedly entrench Morocco as a comm itted member of the WTO and the multilateral 
trading system. We wish Morocco every success in its fifth Trade Policy Review. 
BURUNDI 4.273.  Burundi congratulates the Government of Morocco on its positive efforts to achieve 
macroeconomic and trade reforms under its policy to improve the business climate at the global 
level. 
4.274.  The delegation of Burundi is pleased to note  the significant developments in the mining, 
agricultural and other sectors that have enabled Morocco to integrate into world trade. 
4.275.  Burundi welcomes Morocco's policy to implement the Industrial Acceleration Plan that aims 
to make industry a major lever for economic growth. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
- 35 - 
 
  4.276.  The Burundian delegation supports the measures taken by the Moroccan Government as 
part of an ongoing series of reforms to improv e the economic framework, stimulate business and 
facilitate trade and investment. 
4.277.  The Burundian delegation encourages Morocco to move ahead with its policy to gain a 
stronger foothold in international markets and especially to retain its sovereign investment grade 
ratings, its stable outlook and its significant, steady rise in the rankings (to 75th in 2015 from 130th 
in 2009). 
4.278.  In closing, the Burundian delegation encourages Morocco's active commitment to the 
multilateral system and reiterates Burundi's undertaking to consistently support the Kingdom of Morocco in its policy to promote its national and international economic plan. 
GABON 
4.279.  In the light of the WTO Secretariat and Moroccan Government reports, it is clear that since 
its fourth trade policy review in 2009, and despit e the hostile international environment produced 
by the global economic and financial crisis, Morocco has been able to maintain and increase its 
growth rate whilst at the same time withstanding the turmoil of the international crisis thanks to 
the reforms undertaken by the Moroccan Government, particularly in the structural, monetary, legislative and fiscal fields. 
4.280.  Gabon welcomes the Moroccan authorities' determined and unstinting efforts to improve 
their country's economic framework and the welfar e of all strata of the population across the 
national territory. 
4.281.  Gabon commends Morocco for the trade policy im plemented since the previous review, the 
adoption of the new constitution of 2011, the hold ing of free, democratic legislative elections and 
the establishment of a new legislative framewor k; these and other measures have enabled the 
country to generate economic momentum that has delivered significant and encouraging outcomes 
for economic operators and the Moroccan people, particularly in terms of stimulating job creation. 
4.282.  Gabon congratulates Morocco on streamlining foreign trade procedures and introducing 
high-quality infrastructure; such initiatives have had a direct impact on the growth of the 
Moroccan economy and have enabled it to open up further to the outside world. 
4.283.  We are delighted that these reforms have also led to diversification of the Moroccan 
economy, particularly as a result of the country's stronger focus on tourism, the remarkable inflows of foreign investment and the promotion of Moroccan investment abroad, especially in 
Sub-Saharan Africa - Morocco being the second-largest African investor on the continent. 
4.284.  In that regard, Gabon welcomed the presence of the Kingdom of Morocco at the recent 
African Union Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. 
4.285.  Gabon is very pleased to note Morocco's interest in cooperation at bilateral and regional 
level, including with the MENA countries and the European Union within the specific framework of its Advanced Status with the EU. 
4.286.  Gabon especially welcomes Morocco's undertaking to increase its cooperation with the 
World Trade Organization and encourages its co mmitment to addressing the concerns of the 
developing countries, the least developed countries and the multilateral trading system as a whole, and to pursue growth and development for a better tomorrow. 
TOGO 
4.287.  Togo fully endorses the statement made by Lesotho on behalf of the African Group. 
4.288.  The Togolese delegation would like to thank the WTO Secretariat; as always, it has spared 
no effort with regard to logistics and documentation to ensure the success of this trade policy 
review, which, as we all know, is one of the mechanisms that guarantees transparency within our august Organization. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
- 36 - 
 
  4.289.  The Moroccan authorities are to be congratulate d for agreeing once more to undergo this 
review, thus demonstrating their willingness to abide by the principles that govern the functioning of the WTO. 
4.290.  The Togolese delegation notes with satisfaction from the reports that Morocco has 
managed to maintain sustained growth despite the adverse consequences of the 2008 financial 
crisis that are still affecting a good number of countries. 
4.291.  Indeed, the two reports emphasize that Morocco has recorded an average annual growth 
rate of 4% since the previous trade policy review in 2009. 
4.292.  This is the result of Morocco's courageous policy. Despite the reduction in the country's 
macroeconomic room for manoeuvre, essentially caused by the financial crisis, Morocco has implemented structural reforms and measures to reduce fiscal and external vulnerabilities. 
4.293.  The policy of economic diversification has played a major role in the sustained growth that 
has helped to reduce poverty. Morocco is to be commended for this initiative; it is a fine example to follow. 
4.294.  However, Togo notes with interest the reforms introduced by Morocco to liberalize trade 
through measures such as the monitoring and implementation of the various agreements and 
commitments entered into at the bilateral, regional and multilateral levels, and the streamlining, 
transparency and rationalization of customs taxation and foreign trade procedures. 
4.295.  Moreover, Togo would reassure Morocco that it of course shares its commitment to a fairer 
multilateral system. That commitment is evident in Morocco's active role in the African Group in Geneva, as shown by the dynamic part it played in 2013 as coordinator of the African Group in the 
negotiations on development issues in the run-up to the 9
th Ministerial Conference in Bali. 
4.296.  Togo takes this opportunity to recall that its economic and trade relations with the 
Kingdom of Morocco are very close and were furthe r highlighted very recently when it opened a 
diplomatic mission there. This shows the extent of  the special interest Togo has in this review. 
4.297.  According to recent statistics, Togo is Morocco's 48th trading partner and Morocco's imports 
from Togo consist chiefly of coffee, cotton, cacao and tropical products. 
4.298.  However, trade between Morocco and Togo is by no means unilateral, because Togo also 
imports not only food products from Morocco, but also finished products and electrical cabling. 
4.299.  The vitality of trade between our two countries has reached a very encouraging level and 
should be maintained or even increased in an international setting where the issue of intra-African 
trade is a major challenge. 
4.300.  The Togolese delegation would therefore like to reiterate the decisions that emerged from 
a visit by Togolese economic operators to Rabat from 16 to 19 June 2015; they include: 
 organization of a Togolese-Moroccan joint commission; 
 abolition of visas between the two countries. 
4.301.  To mention but a couple of examples. 
4.302.  The Togolese delegation is most appreciative of all the economic missions conducted last 
year by the Moroccan authorities, led by you yourself, Mr Minister, as part of the process to strengthen economic ties with Togo. Initiatives such as these extend to most other Sub-Saharan African countries and are a perfect example of good South-South cooperation, of 
which Morocco is one of the standard-bearers. 
4.303.  It should be noted that such cooperation extends beyond the economic and trade spheres 
and also encompasses education, where each year the Kingdom of Morocco grants scholarships for 
Togolese students so that they can receive high-quality higher education in Morocco. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
- 37 - 
 
  4.304.  The Togolese delegation takes this opportunity to renew the Togolese Government's thanks 
to the Moroccan Government for its unfailing concern in that respect. 
4.305.  In conclusion, the Togolese delegation assures Morocco of its full support and wishes it 
every success. 
EGYPT 
4.306.  Egypt is pleased to see that, despite the effects of the global financial crisis, Morocco has 
continued to make economic progress since its last Trade Policy Review, with an average annual 
growth in real GDP close to 4% during the period  2009-2014. This sustained economic growth is a 
remarkable achievement, which is a direct result of the reforms introduced to stimulate competition in domestic markets, encourage innovation, and create new jobs, in addition to the strategy aimed at diversifying the economy and liberalizing foreign trade.  
4.307.  Egypt appreciates the measures adopted by Morocco to achieve improved and inclusive 
growth that creates employment opportunities  by supporting investment and improving the 
capacity of businesses to establish a stronger presence in international markets, and commends 
the steadfast efforts of Morocco to sustain macroeconomic stability and ensure a fairly high degree 
of economic openness conducive to trade and in vestment. In this regard, Egypt congratulates 
Morocco for earning its well-deserved place among the leading producers of automobiles and 
motor vehicle accessories worldwide, as indicated in the Secretariat report. 
4.308.  Egypt is pleased to see that investment has grown by close to 7% over the last ten years, 
through the implementation of reforms that have  led to an overall improvement of the business 
environment and the support for increased foreign direct investment. These reforms and 
developments have had a positive impact on the labour market, through the creation of around 
2 million jobs since 2000 and a 3.7% decline in unemployment. We strongly encourage and support Morocco to continue in this direction.  
4.309.  Egypt welcomes Morocco’s continued support and commitment to the WTO's work and to 
the multilateral trading system, particularly through its active and constructive participation in both the African and the Arab Group, and congra tulates Morocco on the successful hosting of a 
Ministerial Conference of African countries in Ma rrakesh in April 2015 to mark the WTO’s twentieth 
anniversary.  
4.310.  On the bilateral front, Egypt and Morocco enjoy a strong and interlinked economic 
relationship, which has greatly benefited from the signing, in May 1998, of a bilateral Free Trade 
Agreement between both countries, as well as the signing, in February 2004, of the Agadir Free 
Trade Agreement binding Egypt, Morocco, Jordan , and Tunisia. Under this agreement, which 
entered into force in July 2007, all products traded among the four countries are fully exempted 
from duties and taxes of equivalent effect.   
4.311.  In conclusion, I would like to seize this opportunity to express our sincere appreciation for 
the hard work undertaken by Morocco’s mission  here in Geneva headed by His Excellency 
Ambassador Mohamed Auajjar, and we look forward to continued cooperation with Morocco to 
deepen our economic relationship both bilaterally and within the WTO. 
UNITED
 ARAB  EMIRATES 
4.312.  The TPR report of the Secretariat highlights the fact that, in spite of the main challenges 
faced by the Moroccan economy, such as unemploym ent, the impact of energy imports on public 
finance, large dependence of agriculture on weather conditions, Morocco remains a significant and positive contributor to the multilateral trading system.   
4.313.  The report of the Secretariat underlines the numerous reforms the Government has 
introduced to its trade regime since the last TPR, and the commendable efforts made by the authorities to continue opening up the economy to foreign trade, to promote sustainable 
development, especially in agriculture, and to develop rural areas, notably through eco-tourism. 
The Government has also lowered its MFN customs duties over the years, applying lower tariff rates than the rates bound in the Uruguay Round. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  4.314.  In his statement at the MC10, H.E. the Mini ster confirmed the position of the Moroccan 
Government concerning the vital importance of the WTO as the global forum for trade rules setting and governance. He also pointed out that the importance of the WTO cannot be emphasized without the centrality of development. It is no co incidence that H.E. the UAE Minister of Economy, 
in more or less the same words, shared the same position in his own statement. 
SEPARATE
 CUSTOMS  TERRITORY  OF TAIWAN,  PENGHU,  KINMEN  AND  MATSU 
4.315.  It is clear from their report that the Government of Morocco has been making substantial 
efforts to diversify the economy and to liberalize its foreign trade, by updating the legal 
framework, creating a better environment for trade and investment, and by assuring the world of Morocco’s international commitments.  
4.316.  Morocco is to be congratulated on its steady  economic growth and development over the 
period under review. GDP growth has been maintain ed at an average annual rate of 4%. Other key 
indicators have also been improving, with expo rts growing faster than imports since 2013. In 
particular, the government's economic strategic policy seems to be having the desired effect of 
re-establishing a more stable macroeconomic framework and improving the business climate for 
foreign investors, which has probably helped investment to grow by nearly 7% over the last ten years, and unemployment to fall to 9.9%. 
4.317.  However, the trade deficit still remains a major concern for the Government. As an 
important player in world trade, we would like to see Morocco continuing to develop its regional and bilateral trade cooperation, while at the same time actively participating in the regular work of the WTO, expanding its economic cooperation with other Members, and continuing to diversify its 
market. 
4.318.  In order to create a more prosperous economy and offer more job opportunities, Morocco’s 
policy of building up its export capacity in target ed sectors such as textiles, the electrical and 
electronics industries, and the automotive industry, is to be welcomed. Indeed, we look forward to 
the possibility of working more closely with Morocco in the future, especially in the area of technical cooperation in these sectors. 
4.319.  One of our concerns we would like to raise, however, is that our people are experiencing 
difficulties with their applications for visas to visit Morocco, which is an inconvenient obstacle to both trade and tourism. In the interests of trade and the tourist industry, we hope to be able to 
resolve this issue with Morocco as soon as possible. 
4.320.  The total value of two-way trade between Morocco and the Separate Customs Territory of 
Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu in 2014 amount ed to just US$180 million. But, even though 
the trade relations between us may have been limited  so far, and due to the geographical distance 
sets us far apart from each other, the world tr ade mechanism still bonds us firmly together, and 
we are sure there are abundant opportunities for further trade and economic cooperation between us in the future. 
4.321.  We certainly expect this review to stimulate some very interesting and productive 
discussion. May I conclude by wishing Morocco a most successful and constructive Trade Policy Review. 
MALAYSIA 
4.322.  Malaysia commends Morocco for its continued growth which recorded an annual average of 
3.7% real growth in GDP for the period 2009-2014, despite the global economic turmoil caused by the financial crisis in 2008. This shows Morocco is on the right track on economic, social and 
institutional reforms. 
4.323.  Malaysia and Morocco enjoy close bilateral economic relations through the years. Our 
bilateral trade reached US$87 million last year and we certainly look forward to a continuous 
upward trend in the future. Malaysia's major exports to Morocco in 2014 were among others, palm 
oil, electrical and electronics and manufactures of metal while major imports from Morocco include textiles, clothing and footwear. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  4.324.  Malaysia and Morocco have also signed the Agreement for the Promotion and Protection of 
Investments (IGA) since 2002 that aims at creating favourable conditions for fostering investments in both countries. In this respect, we remain committed to improving our bilateral trade and investment for the benefit of our businesses. 
4.325.  Morocco is also one of the recipients of the programmes under the Malaysian Technical 
Cooperation Programme (MTCP) since 1994. The pr ogramme aims at further enhancing bilateral 
cooperation between the two countries and includes various short term courses such as in 
banking, public administration, broadcasting and library management. 
4.326.  Malaysia appreciates Morocco commitment to the multilateral trading system and WTO. 
Most notably, being a member of G90, Morocco has constructively contributed towards the outcome of the tenth Ministerial Conference, in particular in areas of interest to LDCs. It is 
certainly our hope that this positive spirit would continue as we resume negotiations and we 
certainly look forward to working closely with Morocco. 
4.327.  On the WTO Facilitation Agreement, Malaysia notes that Morocco has submitted its 
Category A commitments notification but has yet to ratify the Agreement. Malaysia welcomes the 
progress in domestic process for ratification and hopes Morocco will be able to deposit its Instrument of Acceptance soon. 
BENIN 
4.328.  The delegation of Benin endorses the stat ement made by Lesotho on behalf of the 
African Group. 
4.329.  The delegation of Benin also welcomes the Moroccan Government's efforts to implement 
the various recommendations that emerged from the previous review of Morocco's trade policy in 
2009. Despite the global financial and economic crisis they have helped to stimulate competition in the domestic market as well as innovation and creativity. The vitality generated despite the crisis 
has produced some encouraging results for the Moroccan economy. 
4.330.  Morocco is among the countries that have concluded the highest number of trade 
agreements, ranking it among the countries that ar e best integrated into the multilateral trading 
system. Moreover, the various reforms made to improve the business environment since the 
previous review have enabled it to attain and maintain GDP growth of close to 4% between 2009 and 2014, and to achieve a ranking of 80
th out of the 175 countries considered in 2014 by the 
Transparency International Report. The Doing Business 2014  indicators  also illustrated the 
progress made by Morocco in improving the bu siness environment since its previous review. 
4.331.  The legislative and regulatory measures adopted on international investment and trade 
have continued to make Morocco one of the most attractive countries to foreign direct investment. 
Morocco promotes initiatives that support investment in Sub-Saharan Africa, especially in the areas of agro-industry, mining, renewable energy, telecommunications, new information and 
communications technologies, banking and insurance, and air transport. 
4.332.  The delegation of Benin recognizes the prog ress made and is confident that other good 
results will be achieved thanks to the multisectoral reforms that have been introduced, including a targeted, proactive monetary policy, ongoing reform of the fiscal and government procurement 
system, trade facilitation measures based on the virtual single window for foreign trade, PortNet 
and the move to paperless customs clearance procedures. 
4.333.  The delegation of Benin welcomes the excellent relations of friendship and cooperation 
between Benin and Morocco, as reflected in the successful pooling of Morocco's expertise and 
experience, the training in Morocco of Beninese students, the organization of trade and craft fairs in which economic operators from both countries participate, the establishment of air links 
between the two countries and the development of economic and financial activities concerning 
various sectors. 
4.334.  The delegation of Benin would like to take this opportunity to commend the Ambassador 
and Permanent Representative of the Kingdom of Morocco in Geneva, His Excellency WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  Mr Mohamed Auajjar, and his team for their important contribution to the Doha Round multilateral 
trade negotiations. 
4.335.  The delegation of Benin congratulates Morocco and the WTO Secretariat for their excellent 
reports on the trade policy of Morocco. 
ALBANIA 
4.336.  At the outset, we would like to commend the Morocco economic performance and its 
developments characterized by a stable macroeconomic framework which has resulted in an 
average economic growth by 3.7%, with moderate inflation and interest rates. It is important to 
denote that this performance has successfully promoted competition on the domestic market and contributed to the creation of new jobs. 
4.337.  There are two other areas where the Morocco economy has demonstrated significant 
success: the automobile industry accounting for 30 % of the country's total exports and tourism, 
which continues to expand rapidly as one of the country's main sources of foreign exchange.  
4.338.  Affected by the global financial and economic crisis, the international trade and investment 
were particularly responsive to the reforms introduced by the Morocco Government. The positive 
results are related particularly to the current account deficit, which reached almost 10% of the GDP in 2012, but fell to below 6% of the GDP in 2014. Therefore, we are looking forward to the 
outcomes of the TPR of Morocco.  
4.339.  Regarding the Albanian–Morocco economic and trade relations, we are pleased to note that 
both Governments are committed to finalizing two agreements signed last year: that on Avoidances of the Double Taxation, and the Boost and Protection of investments in respective 
countries which will enhance Albanian-Morocco economic and trade collaboration.  
4.340.  While congratulating the Morocco's numerous reforms to its trade regime since the last 
TPR, its efforts to develop transport, telecommunications and internet infrastructures, Albania 
encourages the government's current objectives to continue its policy of opening up the economy 
to foreign trade and promote sustainable development, particularly in agriculture.  
4.341.  In particular, Albania encourages the Government Tourism Plan, notably through 
eco-tourism, as an area with great potential for developments.    
HONDURAS 4.342.  From the report before us we note with great interest that the Kingdom of Morocco has 
been experiencing annual average growth of 3.7%  accompanied by diversification and a stable 
macroeconomic framework with moderate inflation and interest rates. 
4.343.  We also note that industry and the real-estate sector have been the major beneficiaries of 
FDI inflows and that during the period 2008-2013 th e share of FDI in industry rose from 6.4% to 
39.2%, a remarkable increase. 
4.344.  For several decades, development of the manufacturing sector has been a priority for the 
Moroccan Government, especially on account of the jobs it generates, turning the 
Kingdom of Morocco into one of today's top 30 gl obal automotive manufacturers; in 2014, exports 
by the automotive sector as a whole exceeded US$4.7 billion, making it the country's leading export sector. 
4.345.  Additionally, it is important to note that se rvices exports continued their dynamic growth, 
reaching US$14 billion, equivalent to close to 60% of goods exports. In 2008-2014, the most 
buoyant service activities were transport and financial services, not to mention growth in tourism, one of the country's chief sources of foreign currency. 
4.346.  According to the report, agrifood exports also ga ined in importance in addition to providing 
a source of family employment and income for the rural population, especially for low-skilled WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  workers. The strategy that envisages specific fi nancing for rural development to slow down the 
rural exodus by creating jobs is also worthy of note. 
4.347.  We note the introduction of the status of self-entrepreneur with the aim of helping small 
and particularly very small enterprises to move into the formal sector. According to the authorities, 
this status affords many advantages, which include the simplification of procedures for setting up a 
business and cessation of activity; exemption from  commercial registration; electronic payment of 
a specific income tax and exemption from VAT. 
4.348.  We further note that Morocco has introduced a new legal framework for trade defence 
measures, and has set up an Import Monitoring Commission responsible for such measures. 
4.349.  A new Competition Council has also been established, and its tasks will include ensuring 
transparency and equity in economic relations, inter alia  by analysing and regulating competition 
in the different markets, and controlling unfair trade practices and economic merger operations, 
although some sectors have their own regulatory authorities responsible for competition. 
4.350.  According to the Global Competitiveness Index Morocco has climbed five places to 72nd out 
of 144 States and ranks 71st in the annual Doing Business 2015  report. 
4.351.  At regional level, we note the Agreement between the Kingdom of Morocco and the 
Central American Integration System (SICA) on the admission of the Kingdom of Morocco as an 
extra-regional observer in the Central American Integration System. 
4.352.  In relation to bilateral trade, in 2015 Honduras imported around US$784,000 in clothing 
and clothing accessories, except knitted items; and preparations of meat, fish and crustaceans among others. It exported around US$700 million in coffee, tea, furniture and furnishings. 
4.353.  In 2014, the President of the National Congre ss of Honduras travelled to Morocco at the 
invitation of the Forum of Presidents of the Legislative Bodies of Central America and the 
Caribbean Basin (FOPREL) with a view to strength ening the ties between legislative bodies as well 
as expanding trade relations, investment and cooperation in sectors such as tourism, agriculture 
and fisheries, as well as in technical and cultural matters. 
4.354.  Lastly, I would like to reiterate our thanks for this renewed opportunity to exchange views 
and examine Morocco's trade policies and practice s and to wish the authorities every success in 
this trade policy review. 
INDIA 4.355.  On the bilateral front, India and Morocco have de ep rooted historical links from the days of 
the famous Moroccan traveller Ibn Batuta in the 14
th Century. Since the establishment of 
diplomatic relations in 1957, these ties have become multifaceted and stronger. His Majesty King Mohammed Vi visited India in October 2015 to participate in the India Africa Forum Summit 
(IAFS). 
4.356.  The quantum of bilateral trade, which was US$1.41 billion in 2013, decreased slightly to 
US$1.36 billion in 2014. India's exports to Mo rocco in 2014 stood at US$500.5 million while 
imports were valued at US$855.8 million. Indian exports to Morocco in the year 2014 decreased 
by 21.6% compared to the previous year while Moro ccan exports to India registered an increase of 
10.2%. The balance of trade has been in favour of  Morocco because of imports of phosphoric acid 
and rock phosphate by India. In dia is one of the major markets for Moroccan phosphate and its 
derivatives. 
4.357.  Coming to bilateral investments, and India-Morocco joint venture in fertilizer sector in 
Morocco, called IMACID, was set up in November 1999. At present, the JV is producing around 
430,000 MT per annum of phosphoric acid, nearly all of which is imported by India. Other notable 
Indian investments in Morocco include TATA Mo tors plant for manufacturing bus bodies in 
Casablanca and Ranbaxy's manufacturing plant for production of medicines in Casablanca. The 
Moroccan phosphate company, OCP, has invested in Paradip Phosphates Ltd. in India. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  4.358.  India has been sharing its developmental experience as part of South-South cooperation to 
Morocco under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation Programme by training and capacity building activities. 
4.359.  As brought out in the Secretariat report, since the last TPR in 2009, Morocco's numerous 
reforms to tis trade regime and its efforts to de velop transport, telecommunications and internal 
infrastructures, its economy has continued to grow vigorously. The Moroccan economy has continued to grow at an average annual rate of 3.7% helped by a stable macroeconomic 
framework with moderate inflation and interest rates. Morocco's achievements are commendable 
despite the challenging external environment and un-stability in the immediate neighbourhood. 
4.360.  We have noted that Morocco with more than ten agreements currently in force, Morocco is 
one of the countries that has concluded the largest number of trade agreements. We welcome 
Morocco's commitment to the multilateral trading system and active participation in the Doha 
round negotiations, in order to ensure a successful, balanced, fair and equitable outcome that fully address the concerns of developing countries. 
4.361.  We encourage Morocco to continue opening up the economy to foreign trade, to promote 
sustainable development, particularly in agriculture, and to develop rural areas, notably through eco-tourism. 
4.362.  We look forward to working with Moroccan authorities in further expanding our trade and 
investment ties for mutual benefit. We wish the Moroccan delegation a productive and successful TPR. 
ALGERIA
 (OBSERVER) 
4.363.  Algeria welcomes the progress made by Morocco in the economic and social fields and in 
maintaining the conformity of its legislation with international trade and the WTO rules. 
4.364.  Morocco has played and still plays an important role in the multilateral trading system as a 
WTO Member and when acting as coordinator of the African Group within the Organization. 
4.365.  Algeria welcomes the work done by the delega tion of Morocco to the WTO as part of the 
efforts to support and deal with extensions requ ested by countries negotiating accession to the 
WTO, including Algeria, so as to facilitate the accession process and build up capacity in acceding 
countries. 
4.366.  Algeria welcomes its trade relations with Morocco, as a result of which Algeria is one of 
Morocco's principal trading partners among the African and Arab countries. 
4.367.  In closing, the Algerian delegation wishes Morocco every success in its trade policy review. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  5  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF TH E KINGDOM OF MOROCCO AND ADDITIONAL 
COMMENTS 
H.E.  MR. MOHAMMED  BENAYAD   
5.1.  Mr Chairperson, I should like to open this st atement by expressing my appreciation to you 
and, by extension, your country, Bulgaria. We are honoured by your comments and remarks, for 
which I thank you. I should also like to express my most sincere thanks to His Excellency the Permanent Representative of France to the WTO, who was kind enough to present the Secretariat 
report on Morocco's trade policy. 
5.2.  The WTO Secretariat has made a tremendous effort to present a full, informative report on 
the trade policy of Morocco. It has displayed ex emplary professionalism and is to be commended 
for the high intellectual level of its discussions with the various Moroccan authorities. I express my 
deep thanks for its dedication to the duties conferred upon it by the Members of our Organization. 
5.3.  My thanks also go the representatives of the various countries that have honoured us with 
their remarks, suggestions and congratulations. Their support will certainly help Morocco to 
continue with its programmes of reform and the sectoral strategies that are part of its irreversible 
decision to liberalize its economy. 
5.4.  The large Moroccan delegation here today has strongly and enthusiastically welcomed the 
interest expressed by several WTO Members in developing trade relations and partnerships with 
Morocco. Morocco will spare no effort to respond with all due care to these friendly, sincere invitations. 
5.5.  I shall take advantage of this opportunity to express my particular thanks to our fellow Arab 
and African countries, with which Morocco has privileged relations under the South-South 
partnership that it consistently advocates. I can confirm that my country's decision is neither exclusive nor closed. Morocco will always be open to multiple partnerships because it has a 
deep-seated belief that diversity is a boundless source of richness and fruitful exchange. 
5.6.  We have noted with great interest all the suggestions and questions put by Members on 
Morocco's trade policy. Detailed replies will be sent to all Members through the WTO Secretariat. 
Meanwhile, I would like to offer a few preliminary responses to the very relevant questions that 
demonstrate the interest you have in my country. 
5.7.  Agriculture has always been the subject of pa ssionate debate and tough negotiation between 
the Members of our Organization because it provides  food security and employment to a significant 
proportion of the active population in developing countries. 
5.8.  Morocco is not immune to this. Agriculture plays an important role in the economic and social 
development of Morocco. It provides between 15%  and 20% of GDP and a living for 40% of the 
total population. Hence the economic policy measures in the agricultural sector have a substantial 
social multiplier effect that cannot be disregarded on ideological or theoretical grounds. 
5.9.  The considerable challenge facing Morocco, like most developing countries, comes down to 
the following question: how can we modernize agriculture and liberalize trade in agricultural 
products without plunging close to half the popula tion into social uncertainty and unemployment, 
and depriving them of a means of ea rning a living or even surviving. 
5.10.  The challenge is further complicated when, for ex ample, we consider the effects of climatic 
factors that accentuate the vulnerability of the agricultural sector, unfair competition, distortions 
price volatility. 
5.11.  The agricultural policy implemented by Morocco is an attempt to address these considerable 
challenges. It has made liberalization of the sector a strategic objective to be achieved gradually 
through a managed transition that would safeguard the country's economic and social equilibria, particularly in the agricultural sector. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  5.12.  Against that background, since 2008 Morocco has had a new agricultural strategy, the 
Green Morocco Plan, which aims to up the pace of agricultural modernization, adjusting it to meet the requirements of an open economy and supp orting labour-intensive, small-scale, inclusive 
agriculture. 
5.13.  The plan makes it a strategic objective to gradually incorporate the agricultural sector into 
the global market. To that end, agricultural tariffs were reformed in 2013. In addition to reducing tariff peaks, the reform provides for relatively low customs tariffs on agricultural products in 
competitive segments and a tariff scheme capable of  ensuring a gradual transition to liberalizing 
sensitive, vulnerable, labour-intensive agricultural segments such as sugar, wheat, meat and milk. 
5.14.  The reform was carried out in full compliance with Morocco's commitments at multilateral 
and bilateral level. It made freedom of foreign trade in agricultural products an irreversible 
decision. The only tariff quotas applied by Moro cco are those provided for in respect of a few 
agricultural products, in conformity with its WTO commitments. 
5.15.  In relation to fisheries, it should be noted that since the 1970s, this sector has been an 
effective means of leveraging Morocco's development. The sector has made a considerable 
contribution to the development of the Moroccan economy through exports of marine products; the employment it provides for hundreds of thousands of people, both at sea and on shore; to say 
nothing of the role it plays in food security by providing the local market with animal protein of 
high nutritional value. 
5.16.  Since 2009 the Kingdom of Morocco has been im plementing the "Halieutis" strategy to 
develop the fisheries sector. The strategy is based on three pillars: sustainability, competitiveness 
and performance and a number of cross-cutting priorities relating to control and traceability, skills 
improvement, adjustment of the legal framewor k, sectoral governance and organization of 
professional representation. 
5.17.  Fisheries products are not subject to any "restriction" in the trade-related sense of the word. 
Fisheries licences (including for marine algae) are part of the framework for managing the resource and protecting it against over-exploitation. So Morocco does not practise any 
discriminatory treatment in relation to such products. 
5.18.  With regard to cooperation in this area, Morocco has concluded over 38 agreements or 
memorandums of understanding on cooperation with 15 African countries, 9 Arab countries, 2 Asian countries, 5 European countries, and 5 Latin American countries. The agreements 
concluded with the European Union, the Russi an Federation and Japan provide for fishing 
opportunities in Moroccan waters, in addition to other areas of cooperation such as scientific research, maritime training, promotion of small-sca le fishing, promotion of fisheries products and 
combating of illicit fishing. 
5.19.  The provisions governing access of vessels flying the flag of any one of these countries to 
Moroccan fishing grounds are negotiated and set out by common agreement at the bilateral level 
and are regularly monitored by sectoral joint commissions with partners. That is why these 
agreements are regarded not as trade agreements but rather as sectoral cooperation agreements. 
5.20.  Several statements at our meeting of 2 February 2016 and written questions received 
through the WTO Secretariat concerned the levels of applied customs duties and Morocco's foreign 
trade procedures. 
5.21.  On the matter of Morocco exceeding the bound le vels of customs duties for over 700 tariff 
headings, we refer to the clarifications provided to the WTO Secretariat and are at its disposal to 
correct the out-of-date information that lies at the root of the discrepancy, which has unfortunately 
occurred repeatedly since the first review of our trade policy and which Morocco has since addressed. 
5.22.  In its agreement of accession to the GATT in 1987, Morocco bound its customs duty at 40% 
for non-agricultural products and at 45% for agricultural products (excluding certain commodities); it also set a bound rate of 15% by way of the fiscal import levy (PFI) except for the schedule of concessions granted during the accession process. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  5.23.  As part of a tariff reform in 1994, Morocco incorporated the PFI into the tariff and notified 
the WTO to that effect. The WTO customs tariffs database does not take this incorporation into account, hence the aforementioned discrepancy. 
5.24.  Since 1998 Morocco has implemented the WTO Agreement on Customs Valuation. Since 
then Morocco has not used any reference price system to calculate import duties and taxes. 
Unfortunately the implementation of the Agreemen t has led to under-invoicing. In some examples 
of fraud, the declared customs values do not ev en cover the costs of the raw materials used in 
manufacturing the products. 
5.25.  Fraudulent practices of this kind distort competition and seriously affect the business 
climate. It falls to the State to take the measures necessary to counter such practices without prejudice, of course, to its international commit ments. The aim of the consultations held by the 
Customs and Excise Administration with the private sector is not to introduce a new reference 
price system but to collect the information needed to prove cases of under-invoicing. 
5.26.  In conformity with the Agreement on Customs Valuation, Moroccan law always provides the 
declarant with the opportunity to bring legal proceedings to challenge any charge in excess of the 
declared value, and of course the burden of proo f rests with the Authority. So far this type of 
recourse has been very rare, showing that the Authority's actions to combat fraud and 
under-invoicing have targeted only fraudsters and that the aim is solely to ensure fair competition 
in the domestic market. 
5.27.  On a different note, I am pleased to inform Members with an interest in the Moroccan 
taxation system that reforming the system is one of the Moroccan Government's priorities. 
Reforms will be introduced gradually with a view to modernizing the fiscal system by increasing its 
cohesiveness and expanding the tax base. 
5.28.  On trade facilitation matters, the draft law on ratification of the Bali Agreement was adopted 
by the Government Council on 12 October 2015. It  is in process of being approved by the two 
Houses of Parliament. 
5.29.  It should be noted in that regard that Morocco was one of the countries that anticipated the 
provisions of the agreement. Since the previous  review of its trade policy in 2009, Morocco has 
continued to take measures to facilitate trade and shorten the time during which goods remain in customs zones and in ports. New measures streamlining customs procedures have been introduced with a view to speeding up the move to paperless customs clearance, especially with 
the introduction of the BADR (a computerized online customs database), which has been in 
operation since January 2009. 
5.30.  Moreover, as part of the process to facilitate foreign trade procedures, Morocco has 
established a virtual foreign-trade single window known as "PortNet". This common computer 
platform is a tool for operating and managing the exchange of computerized data across the information systems used by the various foreign trade operators and stakeholders. 
5.31.  The platform has made it possible for Morocco to make a significant number of its foreign 
trade documents paperless, including the import document, notification of arrival for vessels, manifest, summary declaration, single goods declaration, and others. The paperless import document alone has resulted in over 15,000 impo rters and all banks connecting to the platform 
and has therefore significantly reduced operational costs as well as the time taken to process the 
document from several days to just a few hours. Morocco plans to continue the paperless process and fully automate foreign trade procedures and documents. On that note, it is my pleasure to 
chair the National Commission on Procedural Streamlining and we in Morocco have unique 
experience in this field in terms of governance and process management that we would like to share with Members. 
5.32.  Government procurement has been the subject of several questions from Members. We 
welcome these questions to the extent that Moro cco has made regulatory reform in government 
procurement a genuine tool with which to modernize its economy and promote foreign investment. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  5.33.  For a number of years Morocco has been engaged in a process of modernizing its 
government procurement system, involving in particular an overhaul of its legal framework based on international best practice, including that of the WTO, and gradual computerization of procedures and document exchange. 
5.34.  I t  s h o u l d  a l s o  b e  n o t e d  t h a t  g o v e r n m e n t  p r o c u r e m e n t  i n  M o r o c c o  i s  o p e n  t o  f o r e i g n  
businesses with no threshold limit and that the country is committed to complying with the principle of non-discrimination between Moroccan and international businesses in all procurement 
processes, as set out in the free trade agreemen t signed by Morocco and the United States, in 
force since 2006. 
5.35.  There are therefore no discriminatory provis ions that differentiate between local and 
international businesses in the procurement process, including the submission and assessment of 
bids and the award of contracts. 
5.36.  Government procurement is regarded as an important tool in Morocco's economic and social 
development. The aim behind the possibility of gran ting a national business a preference that does 
not exceed 15% of the amount of the contract is to develop the country's economic fabric, which is 
almost entirely made up of small and medium-sized enterprises. This optional, non-compulsory preference is limited to the construction and public works sectors and is rarely used; indeed it is in 
practice unworkable in major infrastructure contracts that are often open to large multinational 
businesses. 
5.37.  In order to increase transparency, authorizing officers are required to publish procurement 
orders on a unified website of the General Treasu ry of the Kingdom. Thus tenders from Moroccan 
and international bidders alike are submitted, withdrawn and opened electronically online. The 
"Procurement Commission" has likewise been reformed and replaced by the "National Government Procurement Commission". The Commission, whose permanent secretariat is provided by the 
General Secretariat of the Government, reports to the Head of Government, thus ensuring that the 
Commission has greater autonomy and independence vis-à-vis  government procurement 
stakeholders and greater authority in the responsibilities conferred upon it. 
5.38.  In respect of consolidation of the general investment framework - the topic of suggestions 
from several Members, I am pleased to confirm th at review of the Investment Charter is a key 
aspect of the Moroccan Government's reform programme with a view to improving the business climate and the country's attractiveness to foreign investment. 
5.39.  To that end the Government is drawing up a pr eliminary draft of the law on the Investment 
Charter. The aim of the new legislation is to bring together the provisions on the incentives and facilities afforded to investors under a contractual framework and thereby introduce a transparent, 
pragmatic incentive regime in conformity with national law and the strategies to develop 
investment in Morocco. 
5.40.  The new charter seeks to: (i) promote employment; (ii) develop and reinforce the fabric of 
production; (iii) encourage regional development; (iv) support sectoral strategies; and (v) sustain 
investment projects. 
5.41.  In that respect it offers a unified horizontal incentives regime based on the requirements 
laid down in the General Tax Code and the Customs and Excise Code, and additional sectoral and 
regional regimes that have regard to the distinct ive nature of the targeted sectors and regions. 
5.42.  On this point it should be noted that the UNCTAD follow-up report on the implementation of 
Morocco's investment policy made a number of re commendations. However, the report was last 
updated in July 2015 so a number of changes that have occurred since that date were not covered. 
5.43.  Moreover, work is being done by all departments involved in the investment ecosystem in 
Morocco and is fully in line with the UNCTAD recommendations. 
5.44.  Under the enlightened leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may God guide him, 
Morocco has repeatedly asserted its resolute and irreversible decision to open up its economy. The WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  new Foreign Trade Law, in process of adoption by Parliament, further consolidates that decision. It 
seeks to update the legislative framework for Moroccan foreign trade. 
5.45.  It should be recalled that the law currently in force was formulated prior to the signature of 
the Final Act of the Uruguay Round in Marrakesh in 1994. The new law is concerned, among other 
matters, with incorporating Morocco's international commitments at the multilateral, bilateral and 
regional levels into national legislation. The law will enable us to bring our legal framework up to date and incorporate our commitments into national law. 
5.46.  The decision to open up the economy and liberalize trade is confirmed in Morocco's 
involvement in several free trade agreements, measures to increase the country's attractiveness to foreign investment, export promotion, and import liberalization. This is also reflected in most sectoral strategies for industry, agriculture, tourism, transport, mining and energy. 
5.47.  This process of liberalization has been supported by several infrastructure development 
projects (ports, airports, motorways, teleco mmunications, renewable energy) during the 
period 2009-2016, and has directly impacted the development of trade and investment. 
5.48.  At the same time, Morocco has embarked upon a regional process of trade cooperation and 
integration with African and Arab countries in addition to the agreements it has signed with the European Union and the United States, among others. 
5.49.  As will be recalled, these processes are not exclusive. Morocco remains committed to the 
multilateral trading system and will continue to play an active role as a WTO Member. It will spare no effort to drive the Doha Round negotiations forward in order to ensure a successful, balanced, 
fair and equitable outcome that fully addresses the concerns of developing and least developed 
countries. 
5.50.  Thank you for your kind attention. 
DISCUSSANT 
5.51.  The conclusions that can be drawn following this  fifth trade policy review of Morocco are, 
first, that the review has been a success in term s of the interest generate d, the questions raised 
(179 written questions received), and the statements made by Members. Indeed, there were no 
fewer than 46 oral statements by Ambassadors  and Permanent Representatives representing 
Morocco's most significant partners and others on 2 February; a statement was also made on that occasion by Algeria, a neighbour of Morocco's and an important partner, in its capacity as an observer. 
5.52.  This positive appraisal is also a result of the high level of agreement, if not unanimity, 
among Members' statements around a few key words: economic and social stability in a complex regional environment; steady macroeconomic performance despite an unpromising international 
environment; diversification of sectors, market opportunities and partners; the consistent 
approach to open trade practices; the ongoing, ph ased package of structural reforms of the labour 
market and the market in goods and services, an d of sectoral, fiscal and budgetary regulations. 
Morocco's commitment to the multilateral trading system, whether in relation to participation in 
the negotiations or in the life of the Organization as coordinator of the African Group or the Arab Group, is supplemented, as noted by several Members, by an active, cohesive regional policy 
of preferential agreements that is an achievement in itself. 
5.53.  Replying indirectly to one of the questions in my presentation on Morocco's role as a 
springboard between Europe and Sub-Saharan Africa , African Members have not hesitated to point 
out that the architecture of the trade agreements  entered into with Morocco is fuelled by the 
booming development of South-South cooperation that covers not only trade and investment but 
also infrastructure, education and the joint promotion of exports, all of which is testimony to an ongoing integration process and to the infl uence of the Kingdom of Morocco on the 
African continent. 
5.54.  In terms of emergence and development, the Members' questions and statements therefore 
endorse Morocco's strategy of opening up its econom y and call on it to reflect on the next steps in WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  terms of further openness, transparency and stre amlining, and the business climate. The Moroccan 
authorities can draw on those questions and statements when considering inter alia  the issues of 
tariff structure, the fiscal system, subsidies, co mpetition, national treatment and protection in 
certain sectors. Naturally they should do so without losing sight of the objectives of 
macroeconomic stability and provision of a long-term response to the challenges of development, 
chief among them education, employment and poverty reduction. 
5.55.  The Kingdom of Morocco should be thanked for the important work it has done for this 
review, congratulated on the path it has follow ed since the early 1990s and the previous trade 
policy review, and encouraged to pursue that course while drawing on the lessons of the 
fifth review. 
EUROPEAN  UNION   
5.56.  On behalf of the European Union I should like to thank the delegation of Morocco for the 
replies given to the written questions we submitted prior to this meeting. 
5.57.  The European Union would like to use this second day to underline the importance it 
attaches to greater transparency in taxes that are levied, sometimes exclusively on imports, in 
addition to value added tax and over and above customs duty. 
5.58.  In that regard the European Union hopes that the consideration that has started being given 
to the matter, according to Morocco's reply to our questions 10 and 11, will enable it to be settled 
fairly quickly. 
5.59.  Finally, the European Union has submitted a few written follow-up questions to the 
WTO Secretariat to clarify certain technical matters of importance to operators on subsidies and 
fisheries products. 
5.60.  I would like to thank the delegation of Morocco in advance for the care it will take in 
replying to those points and wish it a second fruitful day of work. 
MADAGASCAR 
5.61.  Madagascar wishes to congratulate the Kingdom of Morocco on its presentation to this trade 
policy review. I can attest to the vitality of this fellow partner African country with its distinguished 
record of organizing major events, including the celebration of the WTO's 20th anniversary and the 
hosting of COP 22 at the end of 2016. 
5.62.  Above and beyond its undeniable economic perf ormance, and its policies and practices of 
multilateralism with a human face, the Kingdom of Morocco has been developing a whole number 
of initiatives at national, regional and international level through well thought-out, targeted 
agreements and partnerships. 
5.63.  Madagascar welcomes the sustained impact of growth on per capita income; the emphasis 
on innovation, science and technology in the development strategy and the spectacular rise in the 
Kingdom of Morocco's rankings in the various international classifications relating to governance. This is reflected in practice by strong flows of foreign investment into Morocco and increased trade. 
5.64.  In a world that is rapidly changing in terms of value chains, particularly as a result of 
"mega-agreements", Morocco has diversified its products, its markets, its partners, its infrastructure and its supply of services, so that through sheer speed of adjustment it can offset deficiencies of scale and shortcomings in various fiel ds such as the trade deficit, the budget deficit, 
low levels of foreign exchange reserves, unemployment and the incorporation of young people and 
women into the economy. 
5.65.  I cannot fail to mention the extraordinary role played by Morocco on all fronts, in the 
economic, social, geopolitical, environmental and, for some time now, technological fields. 
5.66.  Madagascar has preferential ties to the Kingdo m of Morocco and we are here attending this 
review as a fellow country. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  5.67.  Many Malagasy students have been educated in  Morocco over a period spanning more than 
half a century. There are Moroccan investors in Madagascar and the visit - and I must stress this point - the three-year visit of the late King Mohammed V to Madagascar has left a mark as pleasant as the indelible, solid ties that happily bind our two countries together. 
5.68.  In view of their shared use of the French language, Madagascar and Morocco would benefit 
from further expansion of their economic and financial links and discussions to that end are to my knowledge, well under way. 
5.69.  We strongly urge the Kingdom of Morocco to continue the reforms it has begun, particularly 
on matters of trade facilitation, trade defe nce measures, SPS standards, competition and 
intellectual property. Finally, we encourage Morocco to continue to be an example in Africa in this 
regard and to consolidate its solid position as a bridge between Europe and Africa. 
5.70.  Lastly, I would like to commend the transparency shown in this review. The information 
provided has been detailed, varied and relevant. 
UNITED
 STATES 
5.71.  On behalf of the United States, I would like to thank Morocco for its participation in this 
review and for its answers to our written questi ons. The numerous interventions on the first day 
testify to Morocco's high regard in this House. Morocco has played an important role in previous 
critical junctures in the WTO and the United States looks forward to Morocco to continue to play 
that role. 
JORDAN 5.72.  The Kingdom of Jordan commends the progress that the Kingdom of Morocco has achieved 
since its last review in 2009. Morocco macroecono mic fundamentals have improved considerably 
and Morocco has continued to implement its programme of economIC, social and institutional reforms, including political and economic reforms that aim to strengthening the role of law and 
democracy, economic liberalization and strong economy. 
5.73.  Furthermore, Morocco's economy continues to perform well despite the pressure of the 
global economic crisis. We should not forget to mention within this positive picture the outstanding 
demonstration of our brotherly country Morocco in its efforts to implement policies of trade 
liberalization, of open trade by negotiating a se ries of free trade agreements with a number of 
partners within the region and outside the region among many others. 
5.74.  These agreements prove Morocco's commitment to an open trade policy and regime and we 
believe that it is all in compliance with the support to the multilateral trading system. All of us 
know Morocco's plans to full serve the growth of its economic sectors. 
5.75.  Jordan is working and will be always workin g with Morocco to promote the Arabic region 
economy development and to better integrate into the multilateral trading system. 
GABON 5.76.  I should like to reiterate my congratulations to the World Trade Organization for its faultless 
organization of this review, and to congratulate the Kingdom of Morocco on the presentation of its 
report and the success of this review. 
5.77.  Gabon and Morocco have a strong relationship. A relationship of cooperation and friendship 
that was sparked by King Hassan II himself and President Omar Bongo in their time and that has 
continued under His Majesty Mohammed VI and President Ali Bongo Ondimba today. 
5.78.  Gabon and Morocco have exemplary cooperation and we offer Morocco every 
encouragement in this process, on which it embarked several years ago. Morocco has Gabon's full 
support, and I would like to add my voice to all those that have already expressed support and 
continued encouragement to Morocco in its endeavours. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  H.E. MR MOHAMMED  BENAYAD 
5.79.  In closing this review all that remains for me to do is to thank everyone once again. Minister 
Abbou, I myself and the delegation accompanying me have been very touched by the comments and suggestions put forward by Members. It is almo st enough to make us come back more often. 
Thank you, Mr Chairperson. WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  6  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON 
6.1.  The fifth Trade Policy Review of Morocco has allowed us to have a better understanding of the 
evolution of Morocco's trade and investment regimes since its last Review in 2009, and the progress achieved since then. Our discussion has benefitted from the constructive participation of 
the delegation of Morocco, headed by H.E. Mr. Mo hammed Abbou, Minister delegate in charge of 
Foreign Trade; and by the valuable comments from  the discussant, Perman ent Representative of 
France to the WTO, Mr. Jean Paul Thuillier. Memb ers appreciated Morocco's responses to the more 
than 170 advance written questions, and look forw ard to answers to any outstanding questions no 
later than one month after this meeting. 
6.2.  Members complimented Morocco for its balanced economic and social development since 
2009, and noted that trade policy reforms had contributed in a large way to this performance. 
Morocco currently ranks among the world's leading exporters of, inter alia, automotive products, 
tourism services and horticultural products. Its recent legislative and institutional reforms concerned standards and technical regulations, the establishment of the new Food Products Health 
Agency, and electronic access to Government procurement. Questions were asked about the 
functioning of the Competition Council and about national preferences provisions in public purchases and under the New Public-Private Partnership Law. Members asked whether changes 
under the new draft law on foreign trade would preserve the openness of domestic markets.   
6.3.  Steps have been taken by Morocco to improve its business environment through economic 
and structural reforms. Nevertheless, Members are of the view that further reforms, aimed at extending the liberal regime of the offshore expo rt sector to companies producing for the local 
market, should stimulate economic growth. Such reforms would also dismantle the duality of the 
VAT system with a view to ensuring full complian ce with the national treatment principle. Members 
encouraged Morocco to eliminate the numerous other duties and charges levied on imports, as well 
as capital and exchange controls.  Many participan ts noted Morocco's high investment to GDP ratio 
and the contribution of foreign direct investment to economic growth in recent years, and asked about prospects regarding its longstanding investment policy reform. 
6.4.  Members noted that Morocco's economic development strategy has implied numerous 
financial, fiscal and other incentives to support businesses, including export companies. This level of State intervention in the economy has led to serious budget deficits in recent years. Participants thus called for a cost-benefit and WTO compatibility analysis of the numerous subsidy 
programmes, tax exemptions, and insurance schemes, most of which focused on exports. 
6.5.  Members commended Morocco on its trade facilita tion reforms, including the introduction of 
the PortNet electronic platform and the impr ovement of the computer system for Customs 
administration; they sought clarifications about the new labelling requirements and customs 
valuation procedures. Members encouraged Morocco to rapidly finalize the ratification of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. While praising Morocco for the steps taken to reduce its applied 
import duties, they asked about its plan to reduce the applied rates of its 792 tariff lines that still 
exceed their bound levels. They also noted the increased use of trade defence measures, and asked if these had been beneficial to the industries concerned.  
6.6.  With respect to intellectual property protection, questions related to protection against 
counterfeiting and against piracy of audio-visual materials, new laws on trademarks and 
geographical indications, planned changes to the functioning of the Copyright Office, and about the 
consistency of the national compulsory patent licensing system with the TRIPS Agreement.   
6.7.  Members unanimously recognized Morocco as a leading supporter of the WTO; they looked 
forward to receiving its pending notifications on, inter alia, state aid and state-trading enterprises. Morocco has also maintained numerous trade agreements with over 50 countries, and is pursuing 
negotiations on a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement with the EU. 
6.8.  On agriculture, Members praised Morocco for the adoption of a consistent long term policy 
under the Plan Maroc Vert, and sought information on  its plans to address high and variable tariffs, 
SPS regulations, samples collection by the Food Products Health Agency, the numerous export 
assistance schemes, and the recent export rest rictions on the food product agar agar. Many 
Members asked about the sustainability and transpar ency of Morocco's fishing policy. In the mining WT/TPR/M/329 • Kingdom of Morocco 
 
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  sector, participants asked how foreign investment could be facilitated, and noted that the 
phosphate industry remained largely organized around a State-trading monopoly. Morocco's new renewable energy policy and market access for foreign suppliers were of interest. Information was also sought about Morocco's industrial acceleration plan, and the related potential effect on 
employment. 
6.9.  In the services sector, liberalization of several transport services has gone hand in hand with 
massive infrastructure investment. This strategy  has contributed to the development of other 
sectors, and to the diversification of the economy. Participants noted the nationality requirement 
for most professional services, and asked about market access conditions for foreign shipping companies, for foreign banks, and about the Gove rnment's new strategy on postal services.  
6.10.  This fifth Trade Policy Review of Morocco was successfully concluded to the benefit of all 
Members. I am sure that Morocco will find useful  the extensive and fruitful discussion during the 
review. The large number of high-level interven tions during this meeting witnessed Members' 
great interest in Morocco's trade and investment regimes. This review has shed light on areas 
requiring the Government's attention in view of further reforms. I hope that these numerous 
comments will be useful to Morocco in designing its future reform programmes, so as to ensure that trade and investment openness further supports economic and social development.   
6.11.  In closing, I would like to thank H.E. Mohamme d Benayad and the rest of the delegation of 
Morocco, the discussant Mr. Thuillier, the Members, and the Secretariat for their contribution to the fifth Trade Policy Review of Morocco. 
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