The Moroccan Job Market

Out of a population of 31 million inhabitants, more than 17 million are city dwellers. In 2004, the active population was 11 million people. The increase in this figure compared to 2003 is due to a significant increase in job offers. However, the urban unemployment rate remained at 17.5% at the end of 2004, with 85% in the 15-34 age group.

The country has an impressive employment pool. 250,000 new graduates enter the job market each year. The Moroccan population is therefore young but also well-educated.

Recruiters are mainly actors in the food sector (large-scale distribution and agri-food industry), which is a flagship of the recruitment market, as is the financial sector. Call centers, aeronautics, textiles/clothing, and IT subcontracting are showing good results. In addition, chemicals/parachemicals, and to a lesser extent cosmetics and tourism, are confirming recruitment expectations. Among the sectors that are regaining momentum, we can list construction and public works as well as clothing.

From September 19 to 21, 2005, the Employment Summit took place in Rabat. This major event clearly shows the current concerns of the State and its motivation to find all the relevant solutions that would streamline the job market and significantly reduce unemployment.