Strengthening Economic Relations between Morocco and Kazakhstan
On September 14, 2026, the Moroccan ambassador to Astana, Mohammed Rachid Maaninou, revealed the growing economic partnership between Morocco and Kazakhstan. This collaboration focuses on various sectors, including grain trade, logistics, renewable energy, and air travel connections. The diplomatic efforts aim to establish Morocco as a geostrategic hub that enhances access for Kazakh businesses to African and international markets, leveraging the Kingdom's advanced port infrastructure, industrial base, and extensive network of trade agreements.
In the previous year, Morocco imported two shipments of Kazakh wheat, each weighing approximately 30,000 tons. Maaninou noted that the country aims to significantly increase its wheat imports this year. He emphasized that while Morocco traditionally sourced its cereals from Ukraine, the current geopolitical landscape renders such imports unfeasible. Additionally, he pointed out that prices for wheat from the United States, Canada, and Brazil are now higher than those from Kazakhstan, making the latter a more attractive option for Moroccan markets.
Future Collaborations and Air Travel Prospects
To address the logistical challenges posed by Kazakhstan's landlocked status, a two-year-old agreement aims to establish a substantial stock of Kazakh wheat at a Moroccan port, managed by Kazakhstan itself. This initiative is expected to facilitate the distribution of larger quantities of wheat to different African markets. Furthermore, the burgeoning business relations have prompted a recent visit from a delegation of thirty Kazakh entrepreneurs to Morocco, alongside a planned Moroccan mission to Astana by the end of the year. To further solidify these ties, a Morocco-Kazakhstan Business Council has been established.
In addition to agricultural and industrial cooperation, Maaninou highlighted Morocco's expertise in sectors such as automotive, aerospace, and renewable energy, which could greatly benefit Kazakhstan, particularly in solar and wind energy projects. Ongoing discussions regarding air travel are also underway, with plans to establish a flight route connecting Casablanca and Almaty. Initially, this route may feature a technical stopover before transitioning to a direct service with appropriately equipped aircraft. Maaninou stressed that direct flights would simplify travel and foster greater business interactions.
Looking ahead, the Moroccan ambassador announced plans for a "Year of Morocco in Kazakhstan" in 2027, which will include cultural and economic events across multiple regions in Kazakhstan, extending beyond just Astana and Almaty. A reciprocal program is also in consideration to promote Kazakhstan in various Moroccan cities, further enhancing bilateral relations and cultural exchange.
As reported by mobile.telquel.ma.
