Agadir's Landmark Event for Diaspora Investment
On July 16 and 17, 2026, Agadir will host the inaugural edition of the "Diaspora Investment Days," organized by the Souss-Massa Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Services (CCIS-SM) in collaboration with the Moroccan Chamber of Commerce and Industry Belgium-European Union (CMCI). This event aims to harness the economic potential of Moroccans living abroad, particularly as the summer influx of the diaspora presents a unique opportunity to transform their returns into a business and partnership platform capable of stimulating regional investment. The agenda includes sharing successful experiences and featuring interventions from operators, with the ultimate goal of supporting project holders in navigating their local endeavors more effectively.
Unlocking Economic Potential and Strengthening Ties
Moroccans residing abroad (MRE), estimated to number over five million, represent a significant economic development lever for the country, especially for the Souss-Massa region. Historically, this area has witnessed a strong migratory dynamic towards Europe, particularly to France and Belgium. MRE from this region were among the first groups of Moroccan emigrants recruited to work in various activities across the Mediterranean starting in the 1960s and 1970s. Notably, the new generations of MRE maintain a strong connection with their homeland, particularly evident during the summer period through the Marhaba operation, which has already recorded the return of 704,714 Moroccans between June 10 and 30. This consistent and significant presence represents an economic opportunity that remains underutilized.
To address this, the CCIS-SM is organizing the "Souss-Massa Investment & Diaspora Days 2026" to promote the investment opportunities available in the region. This two-day event aims to foster business partnerships and enhance the diaspora's contribution to territorial economic development, allowing MRE to discover the economic potential of their region of origin. By transforming their visit into a platform for meetings, business, investment, and economic collaboration, the event will also assist the diaspora in their investment pursuits in the region.
The operational proceedings of this gathering will highlight success stories of diaspora investments within the region. A plenary session will feature presentations from the Regional Investment Center (CRI) and the regional section of the CGEM Souss-Massa, focusing on territorial attractiveness, investment opportunities, the role of the private sector, and improving the business climate.
The National Day of Moroccans of the World 2026, celebrated annually on August 10 since its establishment in 2003 by King Mohammed VI, presents another opportunity to solidify the ties between the diaspora and their homeland. This annual event serves as an institutional framework at the regional level to recognize the contributions of this community to the economic, social, and cultural development of the Kingdom. In 2025, remittances from MRE exceeded 122 billion dirhams (MMDH) and could reach nearly 128 billion in 2026. These flows constitute one of the country’s main sources of foreign currency and represent approximately 8.5% of the Gross Domestic Product. By the end of May 2026, these remittances had already surpassed 50.223 MMDH, marking an 8.8% increase.
As reported by leseco.ma.
