UK-Morocco trade jumps by 23.3%

UK-Morocco trade exchanges have gone up by 23.3% over the past year according to new data released by the British Department for Business and Trade, reports Hespress on 4th February.

The very significant increase, representing an extra £916 million compared to the previous year to reach a total of £4.8 billion, is due to several factors. The UK exports to Morocco are exploding, with a 46% increase, with Morocco importing oil, metal, cars, but also services (transport, travels). The UK on the other hand imports largely fresh produce (fruits and vegetables) for a total of £2.6 billion, as well as electronics, cars and furniture.

The deficit from the UK to Morocco has thus been reduced by half, signaling a more balanced relationship. Investments between both countries remain low at present, but the UK has recently shown interest in Morocco’s growing critical mineral sector, with a recent government report highlighting opportunities for British investors.

The UK has been looking for new economic partners since Brexit, and the North African state is perceived as a reliable choice due to its relative proximity and business-friendly policies. An association agreement was signed between both countries in 2019, replacing the EU-Morocco agreement, and it came into force in 2021.

Their economic ties have grown steadily since, with the Minister for Services, Small Business and Exports Gareth Thomas visiting Morocco in March 2025, accompanied by a delegation of UK business owners. Thomas signed a declaration of intent, pledging to support preparations for the 2030 Football World Cup, which Morocco is co-hosting with Spain and Portugal.

The 5th session of the UK-Morocco Strategic Dialogue, held in Rabat in June 2025 in attendance of the British Foreign Minister David Lammy, also revealed new collaborations in a number of sectors. UK companies are expected to invest in several new projects in Morocco such as the Airports 2030 modernization program, water infrastructure and a new hospital in Casablanca.

Hespress, Commons Library, Maghrebi.org