Impending Job Losses in Morocco Due to New French Legislation
As of August 11, 2026, a new law in France is set to have significant repercussions for Morocco’s job market, particularly in the call center sector, which has been a vital source of employment in the country. This sector has notably contributed to reducing unemployment rates, especially in major cities such as Casablanca, Rabat, Fes, and Tangier. A considerable number of young individuals, including university graduates, students, and even those with only a high school diploma, find themselves compelled to work in this field due to a lack of job opportunities. Despite the pressures associated with the work, they prefer the stability of a monthly salary along with benefits such as health coverage.
The French law, which was adopted on June 30, 2026, restricts companies from conducting marketing calls unless they have obtained explicit prior consent from the client. This legislative change arises in response to a surge in complaints from French citizens about intrusive and repetitive telemarketing calls. According to statements made by Younes Skouri, the Moroccan Minister of Labor, the country heavily relies on the French market, with over 80% of the revenue generated by call centers coming from France. The new law poses a serious threat to between 40,000 and 50,000 jobs within this sector, a figure that could potentially increase, as there are no precise statistics available on the actual size of the industry.
The cities most likely to be affected are Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier, and Fes, where there is a high volume of activity, and many employees are engaged with French clients. The implications of this law may exacerbate the existing unemployment crisis, particularly since the call center industry is known for its dynamic nature. This situation will rekindle discussions regarding the government's responsibility to safeguard jobs linked to international markets, especially in sectors that employ thousands of Moroccan youth. Attention will inevitably shift to the Ministry of Labor to identify alternative strategies and proactive measures that can be implemented, although the situation appears complex, especially with elections on the horizon.
As reported by goud.ma.
