In a significant move to modernize its commercial landscape, the Moroccan government has signed a strategic partnership to accelerate the digitization of both domestic retail and international trade.

The Ministry of Digital Transition and Administrative Reform and the Ministry of Industry and Commerce formalized the agreement Wednesday in Rabat, marking what officials described as a turning point in the country’s economic transformation.

“This isn’t just about digitizing paperwork it’s about transforming how we do business,” said Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni, Minister Delegate for Digital Transition, during the signing ceremony. She was joined by Omar Hejira, Secretary of State for Foreign Trade.

The initiative is set to impact two key areas, strengthening local retail through digital integration and expanding Morocco’s footprint in global markets via advanced export platforms.

At the core of the domestic plan is the Moroccan Retail Tech Builder, a platform designed to help local merchants transition into the digital economy. Through it, small and medium-sized businesses will gain access to digital tools, training programs, and technical support tailored to modern retail needs.

The project aims to support traditional shopkeepers and entrepreneurs, many of whom operate outside formal digital frameworks.

“We’re witnessing the acceleration of commerce digitization,” said Hejira. “Our government is particularly focused on supporting small operators who might otherwise be left behind in this transformation.” The commerce sector currently employs over 1.6 million people in Morocco, making its modernization a key national priority.

The agreement also includes a strong export component, with the launch of three new platforms designed to enhance Morocco’s competitiveness in global trade.

These platforms are expected to simplify the export process and open up new channels for Moroccan businesses seeking to access foreign markets.

The partnership also links Morocco’s digital commerce strategy with scientific research through the JAZARI Institute initiative. The collaboration aims to position Morocco as a regional leader in commercial technology by integrating research-driven innovation into retail and trade operations.

To ensure effective implementation, the government will establish a strategic steering committee and a monthly monitoring unit to oversee progress and maintain momentum.

The announcement comes just one day after El Fallah Seghrouchni signed a separate agreement with the United Nations Development Programme to introduce a digital sustainable development course and establish a center of excellence in artificial intelligence and data science.