International Trade
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
52 | Autumn 2026 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.