On Tuesday, around 50 French business leaders and economic decision-makers gathered in Laâyoune, Morocco, for a key meeting with local officials to explore new investment and partnership opportunities in the Laâyoune-Sakia El-Hamra region. Organized by the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Morocco (CFCIM) and attended by France’s ambassador to Morocco, Christophe Lecourtier, this economic roadshow offered a unique platform to connect French delegates with Moroccan entrepreneurs and regional stakeholders, laying the groundwork for potential collaboration and direct investments.
Key figures, including Sidi Hamdi Ould Errachid, President of the Regional Council, and Moulay Hamdi Ould Errachid, President of the Municipal Council of Laâyoune, presented the region’s strategic advantages, focusing on its potential to attract investment, stimulate partnerships, and bolster commercial exchanges with French businesses.
Unveiling the economic potential of Laâyoune-Sakia El-Hamra
The French delegation, led by CFCIM President Claudia Gaudiau-Francisco, explored various economic sectors poised for growth in the region. Focus areas included sustainable development, tourism, fishing, and renewable energy, each offering opportunities for mutually beneficial projects. The delegates received briefings on both regional and municipal development strategies, highlighting projects aligned with Morocco’s new development model for its southern provinces.
Among the highlights was a presentation by Mohamed Jifer, Director-General of the Regional Investment Center (CRI). Jifer emphasized the CRI’s efforts to support investors by streamlining processes to establish and sustain businesses in the region. According to him, Morocco has simplified the investment landscape, making it more accessible and efficient, particularly in Laâyoune-Sakia El-Hamra.
Energy and blue economy: Key sectors for French investors
Gaudiau-Francisco underscored the ambitious nature of the regional and municipal development plans, encouraging French enterprises to join in this promising economic momentum. Renewable energy and the blue economy—centered on sustainable marine resources—were highlighted as areas ripe for investment. France’s interest in these sectors aligns with Morocco’s dedication to sustainable energy initiatives, offering a complementary vision for both countries.
Jifer noted that this meeting followed agreements made during a recent state visit by French President Emmanuel Macron to Morocco, reinforcing both nations’ commitments to creating wealth and employment opportunities locally.
A hands-on approach to regional development
The French business leaders also visited the African Institute for Research in Sustainable Agriculture (ASARI) in Foum El Oued, part of Mohammed VI Polytechnic University. There, they were introduced to four major research initiatives: agriculture in arid and marginal areas, biorefinery and bioenergy, animal value chain optimization, and sustainable water and energy management. These projects address the specific environmental and economic challenges faced by Laâyoune and surrounding areas, aiming to enhance resource efficiency and agricultural resilience.
To gain further insights into the local development efforts, the French delegation, alongside Ambassador Lecourtier, toured several ongoing projects. These visits allowed them to witness firsthand the region’s commitment to an inclusive, sustainable approach to economic growth.
Expanding CFCIM’s reach in Southern Morocco
The French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Morocco, which represents over 3,000 businesses and 20,000 members, has been expanding its presence in southern Morocco over recent years. After opening a branch in Laâyoune in May 2017, CFCIM established a presence in Dakhla in 2019 and Guelmim in early 2023. These expansions signal a sustained commitment to fostering economic ties and facilitating cross-border business ventures in the rapidly developing southern provinces.
This visit from French economic leaders represents another step toward stronger cooperation between French businesses and the Moroccan regions poised for growth. By building on common interests and tapping into the region’s unique potential, both sides aim to create new avenues for investment, job creation, and sustainable development.
