The Labor Crisis in Morocco: A Growing Concern
In Morocco, a persistent labor shortage is causing significant challenges in the construction and agricultural sectors, leading to increased wages and production costs. Professional organizations have raised alarms about this issue, which has also been affecting companies in the manufacturing sector, particularly those involved in cabling operations in the northern regions. The National Federation of Real Estate Developers (FNPI) has reported that the ongoing shortage of workers in the construction industry has resulted in daily wages soaring to 220 dirhams, casting a shadow over real estate prices.
Additionally, the Moroccan Confederation of Agriculture and Rural Development (COMADER) has expressed concerns about the intensifying crisis as the olive harvesting season approaches, coinciding with the lemon harvest and grain planting. Despite agreements made to facilitate worker mobility across regions, a comprehensive solution has yet to be achieved.
Construction and Agriculture Facing Challenges
Tawfiq Kamal, the head of FNPI, emphasized the struggles faced by stakeholders in the construction sector due to the escalating shortage of skilled labor. He noted that this situation is exacerbated by the high costs of construction materials, resulting in increased property prices. Moreover, the scarcity of available workers has led to wage parity among different labor levels, with some unskilled workers now earning as much as skilled laborers. The average daily wage in various Moroccan regions has reached 220 dirhams, compelling developers to employ unskilled laborers for skilled positions in some cases. Kamal stressed the necessity for the government to enhance labor training within the construction sector, asserting that while work is available, proper training is essential for workers.
The agricultural sector is experiencing similar issues, particularly following rainfall patterns that have impacted labor availability. Rashid Benali, president of COMADER, highlighted that prolonged drought conditions over the past seven years have resulted in many individuals leaving rural areas for urban centers. The work environment in agriculture is challenging, especially under extreme heat, and traditional full-time work hours have diminished to a maximum of 5 or 6 hours daily in many cases. The prevalent task-based work model means that 80% of agricultural laborers do not adhere to traditional daily work schedules. Consequently, farmers find themselves paying between 300 and 400 dirhams for short workdays, and rising costs are negatively affecting their profit margins. Benali cautioned that the situation could worsen during the olive and lemon harvesting months, which coincide with planting seasons, leading to increased pressure on the labor force.
Experts have pointed out the paradox of labor shortages in key sectors despite a national unemployment rate of 9.5% reported in the second quarter of 2026. Economic expert Amin Sami explained that this discrepancy is more apparent than real, as Morocco not only faces a lack of job opportunities but also a mismatch between available jobs and the skill levels of unemployed individuals. Unemployment is particularly concentrated among urban youth and degree holders, while labor needs remain unfulfilled in practical and manual trades, particularly in industrial and agricultural regions that may be distant from job seekers' residences. Sami highlighted the necessity for a shift towards attractive and sustainable job policies, emphasizing the importance of competitive wages linked to productivity, professional housing, and social security protections.
As reported by hespress.com.
