Morocco’s wholesale trade sector grew in late 2024, with 36% of wholesalers reporting increased sales. In contrast, 49% of non-financial services experienced declines, although 37% expect growth in early 2025. The outlook for various sectors remains optimistic despite ongoing challenges. Overall, employment levels are expected to stabilize.
Morocco’s wholesale trade sector recorded significant growth, with 36% of wholesalers indicating higher sales in the last quarter of 2024 as reported by the High Commission for Planning (HCP). Conversely, the non-financial services sector encountered difficulties, as 49% of companies noted a decrease in activity. However, outlooks for early 2025 are more favorable, with 37% of service businesses and 28% of wholesalers anticipating growth.
In the fourth quarter of 2024, nearly half of the leaders in the non-financial services sector reported activity declines, while 35% experienced growth. This downturn was primarily attributed to diminished operations in telecommunications, air transport, and real estate services; however, hospitality and land transport sectors displayed positive growth. The sector’s capacity utilization rate was recorded at 74%, with 79% of businesses reporting normal order levels.
Employment remained consistent for 59% of companies, yet 22% indicated layoffs. Investment trends in 2024 were focused on equipment replacement and expansion, as indicated by 76% of business leaders surveyed. For the first quarter of 2025, a growth expectancy existed among 37% of business leaders, while only 8% anticipated a decline. Positive developments are projected in land transport, warehousing, and IT services, though postal services and engineering sectors may face challenges.
Furthermore, 68% of businesses forecast stable demand, with 27% expecting an increase. Employment is likely to remain stable for 48% of respondents, while 31% foresee an uptick in hiring. In contrast, the wholesale trade sector thrived, with 36% of enterprises reporting higher sales, and 53% experiencing market stability. Growth was predominantly seen in industrial equipment, agricultural products, and specialized wholesale trading.
Employment stability was reported by 77% of wholesalers, and 86% indicated normal stock levels. Most business leaders (68%) noted steady sales prices, while 27% experienced price reductions. Looking forward to the first quarter of 2025, 64% of wholesalers expect stable sales, and 28% are optimistic about growth. Categories such as household goods, food and beverages, and industrial equipment are projected to drive sales, though declines are anticipated in agricultural products and livestock trade.
A majority (74%) of businesses predict that order volumes will remain normal, with 79% of wholesalers expecting employment levels to stabilize.
In conclusion, Morocco’s wholesale trade sector exhibited noteworthy growth in late 2024, whereas the non-financial services sector faced challenges. Optimistic projections for early 2025 suggest potential growth across various sectors. While job stability was reported in the wholesale sector, the outlook for specific services remains cautious. Overall, the forthcoming months indicate a mix of stability and anticipated growth within the different business sectors in Morocco.
Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com
