The Casablanca-Settat Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Services actively participated in GITEX Africa Morocco 2026, which took place in Marrakech from April 7 to April 9, 2026. This involvement signifies the chamber's ongoing commitment to fostering innovation and enhancing digital transformation both regionally and across Africa. Leading the delegation was Mr. Hassan Barkani, whose presence reflects the rapidly evolving technological landscape on the African continent and the efforts of local stakeholders to boost the attractiveness of the Casablanca-Settat region, solidifying its status as a leading economic and digital hub.
The 2026 edition of the exhibition witnessed a significant international turnout, featuring over 55,000 visitors and approximately 1,500 exhibitors representing more than 130 countries. Additionally, the event hosted over 700 international experts and speakers, alongside a strong presence of investors, decision-makers, and leaders from the technology sector. This robust participation underscores the event's stature as the largest African platform dedicated to startups and innovation.
This edition notably emphasized critical areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, fintech, cloud computing, smart cities, and agricultural technology. Such focus reinforces Morocco's position as a regional technology center and a strategic gateway to African markets. On the sidelines of the exhibition, the chamber's delegation engaged in a series of business meetings with the Russian Export Center, representing the 'Made in Russia' pavilion, which included over 20 Russian companies specializing in advanced technological solutions. These meetings provided an opportunity to explore avenues for collaboration with Moroccan economic actors, particularly in digitization and smart services.
The discussions resulted in an agreement to organize additional business meetings alongside an upcoming Russian trade mission to Morocco in June 2026, coordinated with the Russian Export Center and the economic office of the Russian Embassy. This initiative aims to enhance opportunities for developing joint technological projects and expanding bilateral trade relations. This participation aligns with the chamber's strategy to accompany digital transformations, support the competitiveness of enterprises, and open up to international innovation ecosystems, ultimately contributing to the enhancement of the regional economy and solidifying its position within global economic dynamics.
As reported by casaoui.ma.
