Morocco-Africa relations: the twenty (20) characteristics of Morocco's regional integration in Africa

Abstract

This article offers a theoretical and empirical analysis of Morocco's regional integration (RI) with Africa, with particular focus on West Africa. It examines whether Morocco's stated commitment to Regional Economic Integration (REI) and South-South Cooperation (SSC) has produced tangible effects on African integration.

From the 2000s onward, Morocco strategically reoriented its foreign policy, shifting from an exclusively North-South framework toward SSC centered on its own continent. This transition aims to deepen REI across all its dimensions, particularly through South-South public-private partnerships facilitating the transfer of expertise and technology. As His Majesty emphasized, diplomacy has moved from strengthening political ties to prioritizing economic engagement, grounded in credibility rather than trust alone. The World Economic Forum's Global Competitiveness Index similarly recognizes RI and cross-border trade development as essential levers for improving African competitiveness and ensuring a more equitable distribution of growth benefits.

Methodologically, the article combines two complementary approaches. The theoretical analysis examines the polysemic nature of the RI concept, traces the evolution of REI, and proposes an original conceptual model whose foundations extend beyond classical international trade theories. The empirical analysis draws on a narrative and descriptive review: encompassing official statements, trade agreements, national strategy documents, and reports from regional, continental, and international institutions selected for their credibility, reliability, and relevance.

From this dual perspective, the study identifies 20 characteristics of Morocco's RI and SSC and formulates 12 practical recommendations to strengthen economic exchanges with partner countries, contributing to the broader debate on the conditions for successful, inclusive, and sustainable economic integration, with co-development as its structural core.

JEL Classification : F21

Paper Type :  Theoretical research