The relationship between Spain and Morocco continues to exist in a state of relative tension, characterized by Morocco's persistent encouragement of the occupation of Ceuta and Melilla. Meanwhile, the Spanish government downplays or outright denies any issues with Morocco, consistently asserting that the nation led by King Mohammed VI is a "reliable partner." However, it is evident that Morocco is a significant trading partner for Spain, with a remarkable statistic indicating that one in every five of its exports is directed towards Spain.

According to data provided by the Observatory of Economic Complexity (OEC), in 2024, which represents the most recent figures available, an impressive 19% of Morocco's exports were destined for Spain, equating to a staggering value of $12 billion. Following Spain, France stands as the second-largest destination for Moroccan exports, accounting for 15.8% of the total, valued at $10 billion.

One in Five Exports from Morocco Goes to Spain

Among the top products exported to Spain are categories such as "electrical and electronic machinery," "non-woven clothing accessories," and "cars, tractors, trucks, and their parts,” along with “fruits and vegetables,” among others. When comparing these figures to 2019, the first full year of Pedro Sánchez’s administration in Spain, it becomes clear that these exports have experienced an impressive growth of 50%. Specifically, in 2019, the value of Moroccan exports to Spain was $8 billion, while exports to France were valued at $7.19 billion. As illustrated, the gap between Spain and France has widened since that time.

Exports to Spain Have Grown by 50% Since 2019

Another important aspect to highlight is that the European Union is the region with which Morocco maintains the most extensive trade relationships. According to the World Trade Organization, in 2024, 53.2% of the products purchased by Morocco originated from the European Union, while 65% of all Moroccan exports were directed towards the EU.

On the import side, we observe that Morocco imports a range of products from Spain, with a monetary value of $8.97 billion in 2019, which surged to $14.5 billion by 2024, marking a significant increase of 61.65%. In comparison, imports from France rose from $5.91 billion in 2019 to $9.42 billion in 2024.

The primary products that Morocco purchases from Spain include "mineral fuels, mineral oils, and products for their distillation," "cars, tractors, trucks, and their parts," "machinery, mechanical appliances, and spare parts," as well as "electrical and electronic machinery." Thus, it is evident that Spain stands as Morocco's principal trading partner worldwide, being the leading country for both imports and exports. This trading relationship has expanded since Pedro Sánchez took office, making it all the more striking that Morocco consistently attacks its largest trading partner, a nation upon which it relies significantly for its exports. Conversely, for Spain, exports to Morocco represent only 3.66% of the total products sold beyond its borders.

As reported by libertaddigital.com.