Mastercard Economics Institute’s 2026 Economic Outlook: Morocco’s renewable energy strategy set to power economic expansion

• Morocco’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is projected to rise by 3.9% in 2026, compared to global GDP growth of 3.1%
• Strategic investments and rising foreign direct investments (FDI) are expected to support GDP growth
• Morocco is emerging as a regional hub for green hydrogen and solar energy

Casablanca, Morocco; 27th January 2026: The Mastercard Economics Institute (MEI) has released ‘Economic Outlook 2026’, it’s annual report identifying themes that will shape this year’s economic landscape. The report examines how global policy changes, which grabbed headlines in 2025, will continue to influence economies around the world throughout 2026.  

Morocco is expected to experience real GDP growth of 3.9% in 2026, outpacing the projected global growth of 3.1%. This growth is supported by a strong momentum in renewable energy investment, rising FDI and expanding trade relationships. The country’s strategic positioning as a sustainability-focused economy, coupled with accelerated energy transition programs, is helping drive long-term economic resilience.

“Morocco’s economic transformation is gaining pace through a decisive shift toward renewable energy and strategic industry development. As green energy investments expand, the country is well-placed to capture new opportunities, even as regional and global trade dynamics continue to evolve,” said Khatija Haque, chief economist, EEMEA, Mastercard Economics Institute.

“Morocco’s leadership in renewable energy is creating exciting new economic potential, attracting global investment and opening doors for local businesses to scale. With growing trade ties and sustained consumer confidence, Morocco is shaping a greener, more competitive future for its economy,” said Mohamed Benomar, country manager, North West Africa at Mastercrad. 

Key findings from the report include:

Green energy gains drive investment and growth

Morocco is rapidly emerging as a regional leader in renewable energy exports, particularly in green hydrogen and solar power, supported by favorable geography and climate, attracting investment in future-focused industries. Major investment programs are attracting international financing, largely driven by the country’s strategic focus on sustainability and its favorable geographic positioning for trade.

Diversifying trade with emerging markets

Morocco has increased the share of trade it does with emerging markets. The removal of tariffs on African goods by the Chinese Mainland offers new export channels for Moroccan producers, while deepening commercial links with Asia and the Middle East are expected to help offset external pressures and further diversify revenue streams.

Digital transformation and fiscal expansion among main tailwinds

The MEI anticipates digital transformation, particularly deeper AI integration, will boost productivity and growth. Long-term infrastructure development and strategic investment are helping strengthen domestic capabilities and enabling firms to adapt to shifting global dynamics. 

SMEs remain vital to the continent’s economy

Digital tools are increasingly enabling small and medium businesses enterprises (SMEs) to streamline operations, reduce costs and compete more effectively. But to succeed, SMEs require strategic agility and digital readiness.  Those that are the most flexible and tech forward are likely to be best positioned to accelerate growth. MEI sees an opportunity for SMEs to continue to gain market-share in tech-driven services. There is a growing demand for local tech solutions and a more specialized offering. 

Consumers worldwide will remain savvy, focusing on international, tech-enabled and value-conscious spending. They will continue to prioritize meaningful moments, such as travel and live events, while remaining price-sensitive for many necessary goods.

The ‘Economic Outlook 2026’ report draws on a multitude of public and proprietary data sets, including aggregated and anonymized Mastercard sales activity, as well as models that are intended to estimate economic activity.