Revitalizing Morocco-Mali Relations Through Commerce
On Thursday, Morocco and Mali took significant steps towards revitalizing their commercial relationship during the Mali-Morocco Business Forum held in Bamako. This pivotal event was organized by the Mali Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIM) in collaboration with the General Confederation of Moroccan Enterprises (CGEM) and Mali’s National Employers’ Council (CNPM). The forum coincided with the fourth session of the Morocco-Mali Joint Cooperation Commission, emphasizing the commitment from both nations to enhance bilateral trade and investment.
The gathering was attended by over 300 business representatives from both Morocco and Mali, showcasing a diverse array of sectors including agrifood, energy, construction, real estate, mining, finance, telecommunications, and logistics. Key figures such as Morocco’s Minister of Industry and Trade, Ryad Mezzour, and his Malian counterpart, Moussa Alassane Diallo, highlighted the importance of this initiative. In addition, CGEM President Mehdi Tazi, CCIM President Madiou Simpara, and CNPM President Mossadeck Bally were instrumental in leading discussions that aim to foster economic collaboration between the two countries.
Key Agreements and Future Prospects
The highlight of the forum was the signing of a memorandum of understanding between CGEM and CNPM, which officially reinstates the Morocco-Mali Business Council. This council is envisioned as a permanent dialogue platform that aims to identify and promote investment projects, streamline administrative processes for Moroccan and Malian firms, and facilitate connections among potential business partners. Furthermore, the council is tasked with providing recommendations to improve the business climate and address any impediments faced by operators. Moncef Ziani will chair the Moroccan side, while Sory Ibrahima Maiga will lead the Malian counterpart.
In a further demonstration of commitment to cooperation, a second agreement was reached between the Moroccan National Federation of Electricity, Electronics and Communication (FENELEC) and its Malian counterpart (FENEM) to bolster collaboration within the energy sector. The discussions throughout the day also revolved around enhancing intra-African trade, integrating regional value chains, and launching structural projects aimed at generating jobs and added value for both economies.
During the forum, the Royal Atlantic Initiative, proposed by King Mohammed VI, was presented as a strategic approach for improving regional connectivity and facilitating trade flows, particularly by enhancing access to the Atlantic Ocean for Sahel countries. The event included a panel focused on the regulatory environment and investment opportunities, featuring representatives from various Moroccan and Malian institutions. The program concluded with a series of targeted meetings designed to foster direct interactions between businesses and governmental bodies.
Despite the positive developments, the trade balance remains heavily skewed in favor of Morocco, with Moroccan exports to Mali reaching approximately $185 million in 2025, contrasted with a mere $3 million in imports from Mali. This disparity has prompted Bamako to seek long-term investments and skills transfer rather than relying solely on goods. Moroccan businesses have already established a firm presence in the Malian market, with notable companies such as Maroc Telecom and Bank of Africa playing critical roles in the economy.
The forum represents a broader institutional revival, as the Joint Cooperation Commission, originally established by an agreement signed in 1987, had not convened since 2000. The recent meetings are set against a backdrop of renewed political alliances, with Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger affirming their support for Morocco’s Atlantic access initiative and backing its autonomy plan regarding Western Sahara.
As reported by moroccoworldnews.com.
