The recent report, Unlocking the Potential of the Moroccan Private Sector, prepared by the World Bank in collaboration with Morocco’s Observatory of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), highlights critical findings for the country’s startup ecosystem.
The analysis underscores the importance of a more dynamic private sector to Morocco’s economic growth and emphasizes the need for policies that foster innovation, job creation, and productivity.
Enhancing the Growth of Startups
One of the report’s main findings is the slow growth of Morocco’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Despite the country’s high business creation rate, most formal firms remain small, contributing 86% of national employment.
The report suggests that Morocco’s startups, particularly high-growth firms (HGFs), need better access to resources, such as credit and investment. By supporting the most productive firms, the private sector could thrive, driving more job creation and economic diversification.
Addressing Business Closure and Market Inefficiencies
The analysis also reveals inefficiencies in Morocco’s business environment. A significant number of firms become inactive but do not formally close, largely due to inefficient bankruptcy and liquidation procedures.
Streamlining these processes would reduce the high inactivity rate and foster a healthier, more dynamic startup ecosystem. Additionally, the report identifies market distortions that inhibit productive firms from accessing the necessary resources to grow, which weakens competition and innovation.
Policy Recommendations for Sustained Growth
To unlock the potential of the private sector, the report recommends providing conditions that allow all firms, particularly smaller and younger businesses, to grow. Additionally, encouraging formal business closures and addressing market inefficiencies will help drive competitiveness and innovation.
The shift toward more productive services firms, particularly in retail and education, also highlights opportunities for leveraging technology and connectivity to foster growth.
Impactful Government Policies
The findings align with Morocco’s focus on economic transformation through both industrial and services sectors. The report suggests leveraging technology and connectivity to drive productivity growth, especially in the services sector. Public policies should ensure that both new entrants and existing firms can thrive by fostering innovation and removing market distortions.As Morocco continues its efforts to boost entrepreneurship, these recommendations will be crucial in shaping the startup ecosystem. Aligning policy reforms with these insights could lead to sustainable growth, increase job creation, and competitive private sector, contributing significantly to Morocco’s development goals.
If you see something out of place or would like to contribute to this story, check out our Ethics and Policy section.