Morocco Achieves Notable Progress in Innovation Ranking

In a remarkable leap, Morocco has climbed 13 places in the Global Innovation Index for 2026, as reported by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). The country now ranks 54th among 139 nations and economies assessed by the index, marking its highest position to date. This improvement is significant compared to its previous standings of 75th in 2020 and 57th in 2025, demonstrating a steady upward trajectory in its innovation capabilities over the last six years.

According to the same index, Morocco stands fourth among low-middle-income economies and seventh in the North Africa and West Asia region. This progress is attributed primarily to advancements in the industrial sector and the enhanced valuation of intangible assets, which include designs, industrial models, trademarks, and activities linked to advanced technology.

When examining sub-indices related to production and intangible assets, Morocco has achieved globally competitive rankings. Notably, it holds the fifth position in industrial design registrations, ranks eighth in the global density of intangible asset use, and is sixteenth in trademarks. Furthermore, Morocco is ranked twenty-eighth globally in the production of high-tech manufacturing.

Challenges Ahead for Morocco

Morocco has been categorized among the "Innovation Overperformers," a designation that reflects its performance relative to its income level and GDP for the eighth consecutive year. It notably ranks 46th in innovation outputs while being 76th in inputs, indicating a strong capacity to convert available investments into innovative results.

Despite these commendable achievements, WIPO has cautioned that breaking into the top 40 countries remains contingent upon overcoming various structural challenges. These include insufficient private sector investments in research and development (R&D), limited access to expansive financing mechanisms for startups, and the pressing need to strengthen partnerships between academic institutions and the industrial fabric to expedite technology transfer and enhance scientific research outcomes.

As reported by hespress.com.