The United Kingdom is actively pursuing a comprehensive trade and security agreement with Morocco, aiming to unlock significant opportunities across the African continent.
The North African Kingdom, dubbed the “gateway to Africa”, is seen as a key post-Brexit partner for the UK, offering access to both goods and regional influence.
This strategic shift reflects the UK’s broader ambitions in Africa. Since leaving the European Union, the UK has been eyeing promising African markets, and Morocco, with its regional stability and cultural similarities, has emerged as a leading candidate.
Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson even cited the doubling of UK-Morocco trade since Brexit as a prime example of the post-EU benefits.
Morocco, already in contact with the UK’s Department for International Trade, sees itself as an ideal partner.
Ambassador Hakim Hajoui highlights not only cost-effective tomatoes (avoiding Dutch artificial heating systems) but also Morocco’s potential to contribute to UK energy security through its renewable energy investments. The country’s booming car manufacturing industry further sweetens the deal.
Beyond trade, Morocco proposes security cooperation, given its role in North Africa and the Middle East’s current uncertainties. However, an agreement likely hinges on UK’s support in resolving the Western Sahara conflict, a major issue for Morocco.
The Ambassador subtly reminds the UK of the widespread international recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over the disputed territory.
Bilaterally, UK-Morocco relations have already witnessed an “unprecedented boom” since the 2019 post-Brexit association agreement. Trade surged nearly 50% between 2019 and 2022, with Moroccan exports tripling. Tourist exchanges are also flourishing, with the UK easing visa procedures to attract Morocco’s 600,000 annual visitors.
This blossoming relationship signifies a strategic move for both nations. For the UK, Morocco serves as a springboard into Africa’s burgeoning consumer market, while for Morocco, the UK represents a valuable economic and security partner outside the shadow of its former colonial power, France.