Could a New UK-Morocco Procurement Agreement Create Opportunities for UK Businesses?

UK businesses could soon benefit from greater access to Morocco’s public sector procurement market, as the UK Government explores the possibility of adding a government procurement chapter to the existing UK-Morocco Association Agreement.

If agreed, it would represent the first legally binding procurement commitments between the UK and Morocco and could open the door to a significant pipeline of public sector contracts in one of North Africa’s fastest-growing economies.

What Is Being Considered?
Government procurement covers the purchasing of goods, services and works by public bodies, ranging from major infrastructure projects and transport networks to healthcare, technology and professional services.

While the UK and Morocco already trade under the UK-Morocco Association Agreement, there are currently no international commitments covering access to each other’s public procurement markets. The proposed addition of a procurement chapter would establish clearer rules governing access to specified public contracts and provide greater certainty for suppliers in both countries.

The proposal remains at an early stage, with both governments exploring what a future agreement could look like. A UK Government call for evidence closed on 18 September 2026 and feedback is now being reviewed before any decision is made on formal negotiations.

Why Morocco?
Morocco is investing heavily in infrastructure and public services and is widely seen as a strategic gateway to both African and Mediterranean markets.

Investment is being accelerated in preparation for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which Morocco will co-host with Spain and Portugal. However, the opportunities extend far beyond the tournament itself.

Key sectors attracting significant investment include:
· Transport and rail infrastructure
· Airports and aviation
· Water and wastewater projects
· Ports and logistics
· Healthcare
· Renewable and clean energy
· Urban development and construction

The UK Government has highlighted more than £50 billion of planned investment across these sectors over the next five to six years, with many projects expected to move forward ahead of 2030.
Recent cooperation between the UK and Morocco has already increased, with agreements signed covering areas such as infrastructure, water management, ports and procurement cooperation. A formal procurement agreement would strengthen those commercial links further.

What Could This Mean for UK Businesses?
A future agreement could provide UK companies with improved visibility and access to public sector opportunities in Morocco.

Businesses operating in sectors where Morocco is investing heavily may find new opportunities to compete for contracts or become part of wider project supply chains. This could be particularly relevant for companies involved in:
· Construction and engineering
· Transport solutions
· Water management
· Healthcare services and equipment
· Energy and sustainability projects
· Technology and digital services
· Consultancy and professional services

The benefits may also extend beyond prime contractors, creating opportunities for suppliers of specialist equipment, components, software and support services.

Strengthening UK-Morocco Trade
The proposals come at a time when trade between the UK and Morocco continues to grow.

The UK-Morocco Association Agreement has been in force since January 2021, providing a framework for bilateral trade and preferential tariff treatment for qualifying goods. Trade between the two countries reached £4.2 billion in 2024, with UK exports accounting for £1.6 billion.

Both governments have also been working to deepen cooperation on investment, infrastructure, rules of origin and market access. A procurement agreement could become another important step in strengthening the overall trading relationship.

What Should Businesses Be Doing Now?
Although no agreement has yet been concluded, businesses with an interest in Morocco should monitor developments closely.

Understanding the local market, identifying potential partners and tracking upcoming projects could help businesses position themselves early if access to public procurement opportunities expands in the future.

For companies looking beyond traditional export markets, Morocco is increasingly becoming a destination worth watching, particularly given the scale of planned investment and the country’s growing role as a regional hub for trade and infrastructure development.