Artificial intelligence is no longer just an emerging technology. It is transforming industries, reshaping economies, and redefining governance on a global scale. In Morocco, AI is gradually being integrated into various sectors, raising critical questions about regulation. How can the country encourage innovation while ensuring ethical oversight and protecting fundamental rights? The answer lies in a solid legal framework, but for now, such a framework remains in its early stages.
Morocco has yet to adopt a dedicated law governing artificial intelligence. However, some existing regulations touch on related aspects. The law on personal data protection serves as a foundation for digital governance, ensuring that data-driven innovations respect individual privacy. Another key regulation is the cybersecurity law, which aims to protect digital infrastructures from cyber threats. While these laws provide a degree of oversight, they were drafted before AI became a dominant force. As a result, they fail to address crucial concerns such as algorithmic transparency, automated decision-making, and liability issues.
Aware of these shortcomings, Moroccan authorities are working on a legal framework specifically designed for AI. The Ministry of Justice has begun discussions on a future law that will tackle key challenges, including accountability in AI-driven decisions, the transparency of algorithms, and the protection of civil liberties. At the same time, the Economic, Social, and Environmental Council has called for an update of existing laws to explicitly regulate AI applications in governance, data management, and digital transactions.
Artificial intelligence holds great promise for the Moroccan economy and public administration. According to the latest Government AI Readiness Index by Oxford Insights, Morocco ranks 88th globally and sixth in Africa in terms of AI preparedness. The country scores moderately in governance, reflecting its growing institutional commitment to AI regulation. However, its technology score highlights the need for greater investment in AI infrastructure. In terms of data and digital infrastructure, Morocco performs better, but current efforts remain insufficient for large-scale AI adoption.
Despite these challenges, Morocco has made progress in digital transformation, laying the groundwork for a more AI-friendly environment. However, to keep pace with leading AI-driven nations, further investments and policy adjustments will be necessary.
Artificial intelligence is not just transforming economies; it is also changing the way laws are made. Automating legal analysis and legislative drafting could improve efficiency, streamline decision-making, and reduce bureaucratic delays. However, legal frameworks are built on human values, social considerations, and political negotiations—elements that AI cannot fully replicate. The risk of over-reliance on AI in legislative processes raises concerns about democratic control, national sovereignty, and ethical oversight. While AI can assist lawmakers, it cannot replace human judgment in crafting policies that reflect the complexities of society.
AI regulation is closely linked to Morocco’s broader digital transformation strategy. The government has announced the launch of a unified electronic public service portal, designed to centralize and optimize citizen access to digital services. Currently, Morocco offers more than 600 e-government services, serving citizens, businesses, and public institutions.
In the telecommunications sector, the country is preparing for the rollout of 5G, with plans to cover 25 percent of the population by 2026 and 70 percent by 2030. At the same time, Morocco is expanding its fiber-optic network, aiming to reach over five million households by the end of the decade. These improvements in connectivity are essential for supporting AI-powered services in both the public and private sectors.
Another key initiative is the Cloud First Policy, which encourages public institutions to transition to cloud computing. This move aims to enhance service efficiency, streamline data management, and accelerate digital transformation. The government is also assessing the digital maturity of its public institutions to develop a roadmap for their transition to AI-driven governance.
Morocco is already exploring the use of AI-driven communication tools. The introduction of virtual AI avatars, inspired by digital influencers like Kenza Layli and Radia Bensouda, marks a step toward more sophisticated AI-human interactions. These avatars are designed to improve communication between citizens and public institutions. However, their rise also raises ethical concerns regarding transparency, bias, and regulatory oversight.
One of the biggest challenges remains the impact of AI on employment. As automation reshapes the job market, several industries could experience significant workforce disruptions. To mitigate these risks, Morocco will need to adapt its labor laws, invest in workforce reskilling, and promote digital literacy. Ensuring an inclusive transition to an AI-powered economy will be crucial to preventing a growing divide between those who can adapt to new technologies and those who risk being left behind.
For Morocco, regulating AI requires a flexible and evolving legal approach. The goal is to encourage innovation while implementing safeguards against the risks associated with artificial intelligence, such as discrimination, misinformation, and ethical violations. Establishing a clear and internationally aligned legal framework—one that also considers Morocco’s unique socio-economic context—will be essential to harnessing AI’s potential responsibly.
As the country moves forward with its digital transformation, the real challenge will be finding the right balance between progress and protection. The decisions made today will shape the future of AI governance in Morocco, determining whether the country can become a leader in responsible AI development or struggle to keep pace in an increasingly AI-driven world.
