Nearly seven in ten small and medium-sized firms in Morocco have already started cutting their carbon emissions, a new survey by the European Investment Bank (EIB) shows.
The study, carried out under the EU-backed Trade and Competitiveness Programme, questioned 150 business leaders across the country. It looks at how Moroccan firms are dealing with rising pressure to go green and go digital as global markets shift towards low-carbon growth.
The survey found that almost half of the firms questioned have already taken concrete steps to reduce their carbon footprint. Just over one in five said they have a clear strategy that is already in place. Only a small number said they do not plan to act.
The move towards decarbonisation is expected to speed up. Almost three in ten firms said they plan to launch new measures soon, in line with Morocco’s wider push for a low-carbon economy.
The issue is becoming more urgent ahead of the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, due to come into force in 2026. Firms that do not measure and cut their emissions could lose ground in the EU market, especially those linked to export supply chains. The sectors most at risk include steel, aluminium, cement, fertilisers, electricity and hydrogen.
To support firms, the Trade and Competitiveness Programme is running dedicated sessions with local financial partners. These focus on environmental rules in global markets and on how firms can build decarbonisation into their business plans. The EIB has also worked with Morocco’s main employers’ group, the CGEM, to produce a practical guide on cutting emissions.
The survey also points to strong progress in digital use. Nearly eight in ten firms said they have started to digitalise their operations. More than half described their level as medium, while just over one in five said it is very advanced. Most digital firms use technology to improve daily operations, marketing and expansion abroad.
Only one in ten firms said weak digital use still holds them back. However, several leaders said more investment is needed in research, development and tech partnerships to widen access to funding.
Most firms said support schemes in Morocco are broadly adequate, though more than half believe they could be improved. Expectations of international bodies remain high, especially for help with innovation, green and digital change, exports, training and skills.
The survey concludes that Moroccan firms now need long-term support that goes beyond funding alone, combining finance, skills and innovation to secure their future growth.
