Morocco’s Handicraft Exports Reach $130 Million in 2025

Rabat, The Gulf Observer: Morocco’s handicraft sector achieved a significant milestone in 2025, with exports rising to MAD 1.232 billion (approximately $130 million), government spokesperson Mustapha Baitas announced on Thursday.

The figure marks a notable increase compared to 2019, when handicraft exports stood at MAD 792 million (around $84.13 million). According to official data, the United States emerged as the largest importer of Moroccan handicrafts, accounting for nearly half of total exports at 49%, followed by France with a 10.5% share.

Baitas highlighted the sector’s vital role in Morocco’s economy and labor market. The handicraft industry provides employment for about 20% of the country’s active workforce, with women making up 54% of artisans.

Beyond employment, the sector also contributes significantly to the national economy, representing around 7% of Morocco’s GDP, 7.6% of total exports, and approximately 10% of tourism revenues.

The industry has also created promising prospects for young graduates, with recent figures indicating that 85% of those entering the sector secure stable employment.

Baitas noted that government support programs, including expanded health coverage and social protection measures, have improved working conditions for artisans and helped create a more stable production environment.

The announcement follows Morocco’s recent signing of three partnership agreements in Rabat aimed at supporting and modernizing the handicraft sector. Lahcen Saadi, State Secretary in charge of Handicrafts and the Social and Solidarity Economy, signed the agreements alongside key institutional partners.

The initiative is part of the ongoing implementation of a framework agreement signed on February 13, 2025, which seeks to strengthen regional Chambers of Handicrafts and their national federation while enhancing coordination and development of the sector across the country.