Morocco has maintained its position in the Global Innovation Index, ranking 67th according to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) report for 2025. This ranking mirrors that of 2022, indicating relative stability in the country's technological readiness. However, the report highlights significant improvements in two key sub-indices: human capital and financing.
In terms of human capital, Morocco has made notable strides, attributed to an increase in the average years of schooling and a rise in the proportion of skilled workers. This shift reflects a gradual transformation in the labor market towards jobs that require cognitive and technical skills, suggesting a positive trend in the educational system. The report indicates that these developments are crucial for fostering a workforce equipped to meet the demands of an evolving economy.
Furthermore, Morocco has advanced to 33rd place globally in financing, benefiting from an increase in the proportion of funding allocated to private sector initiatives. This financial boost is seen as a critical element in accelerating the adoption of new technologies within Moroccan enterprises, which is essential for maintaining competitiveness in a rapidly changing global landscape.
Despite these advancements, challenges remain in the areas of digital infrastructure and scientific research. Morocco's ranking in digital infrastructure has dropped to 88th, primarily due to slow internet speeds and limited service coverage. Additionally, the country ranks 42nd in research and development, hindered by insufficient public and private investment in research, as well as a low output of patents and scientific publications related to advanced technologies.
The report also reveals a remarkable 35% increase in the number of local developers and entrepreneurs between 2022 and 2023. This growth positions Morocco alongside leading nations like India and Hong Kong, reflecting a burgeoning ecosystem of digital innovation and entrepreneurship, particularly among the youth.
Strategically, Morocco's geographical position offers significant advantages. The country, along with Egypt, is one of the few African nations that have surpassed the global average in the adoption and development of artificial intelligence technologies. This achievement is bolstered by Morocco's strategic geodigital infrastructure, including undersea fiber optic cables connecting it to Europe, which enhances its potential as a regional technology hub.
However, the report warns of a persistent digital divide that threatens development efforts. Major tech companies such as Amazon, Microsoft, and Google dominate over 80% of the cloud computing market, limiting investment opportunities in countries like Morocco, where digital mobility is still developing. This monopoly poses a risk to Morocco's integration into the global digital economy.
In light of these challenges, the report calls for a comprehensive national strategy to integrate artificial intelligence technologies into development policies. This strategy should focus on several key areas: investing in higher education and vocational training, enhancing digital infrastructure, and establishing a legal and regulatory framework that encourages innovation while upholding ethical standards.
Ultimately, the report emphasizes that Morocco's digital future hinges on its ability to adapt and develop technology in accordance with its unique context. It asserts that investing in human capital must form the foundation of the upcoming digital revolution, transforming current gains into long-term strategic opportunities.
