In late 2024, 36% of Moroccan wholesalers reported increased sales, while the non-financial services sector faced declines. Optimistic projections for early 2025 include 37% expecting growth in services and 28% in wholesale. Key sectors for growth include land transport and IT, despite some challenges in postal services and agricultural products.
According to a survey conducted by the High Commission for Planning (HCP), Morocco’s wholesale trade sector demonstrated positive growth in late 2024, with 36% of wholesalers reporting increased sales during the fourth quarter. Conversely, the non-financial services sector encountered difficulties, as 49% of companies noted a decline in activity. Nevertheless, anticipation for growth in early 2025 appears more favorable, with 37% of service sector businesses and 28% of wholesalers expecting sales increases.
In the fourth quarter, nearly half of the business leaders in the non-financial services sector observed decreased activity, while 35% noted an uptick. This decline was largely attributed to reduced operations in telecommunications, air transport, and real estate services; however, growth was reported in the hospitality, land transport, and warehousing sectors. The capacity utilization rate for the sector was recorded at 74%.
Stability in employment was reported by 59% of businesses, but 22% indicated they had implemented job cuts during this period. Moreover, the focus of investments in 2024 was primarily on equipment replacement and business expansion, as stated by 76% of leaders in the sector. Looking ahead to early 2025, 37% of business leaders predict an uptick in growth, while only 8% foresee a decline. Optimistic projections are anticipated in land transport, warehousing, and IT services, although postal services and engineering activities may experience challenges.
Most businesses, at 68%, expect demand levels to stabilize, with 27% predicting an increase. In terms of employment, 48% anticipate stable levels, while 31% expect to expand their hiring efforts. Meanwhile, the wholesale sector performed admirably, with 36% of businesses reporting sales growth and 53% maintaining stability in their local markets. The most significant growth was witnessed in industrial equipment, agricultural products, and specialized wholesale trade.
Employment conditions in the wholesale sector were stable for 77% of businesses, and 86% noted normal stock levels. The majority of business leaders (68%) indicated that sales prices remained unchanged, while 27% reported lower pricing. For the first quarter of 2025, 64% of wholesalers are hopeful for stable sales, with 28% predicting growth. Growth drivers are expected to include sectors like household goods, food and beverages, and industrial equipment, although declines are predicted in agricultural products and livestock trade. Most companies (74%) expect their order volumes to remain at normal levels, with 79% projecting stable employment.
In conclusion, Morocco’s wholesale trade sector has shown resilience and growth, particularly in late 2024, with a promising outlook for early 2025. Despite challenges faced in the non-financial services sector, many businesses are optimistic about future prospects. The stability in employment and order volumes indicates a measured recovery, while certain sectors are expected to drive sales growth. Overall, the optimism among wholesalers suggests a positive trend in the Moroccan economy.
Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com
