Rabat - The handicraft industry in Morocco yields an estimated annual revenue of MAD 140 billion ($14 billion), accounting for 7% of the national Gross Domestic Product.

In a meeting held on Thursday in Fez, Secretary of State for Handicrafts Lahcen Saadi presented data showing that production-based handicrafts account for MAD 96.3 billion ($9.6 billion), while service-related handicrafts generate MAD 43.7 billion ($4.3 billion).  

According to Abderrahim Belkhayat, the regional director of handicrafts in Fez, this famously acclaimed sector also includes 275,000 craft units and 2,063 businesses.

Morocco’s handicraft exports jumped to MAD 1.11 billion ($111 million) last year, a 3% increase compared to the earlier year, Belkhayat revealed, adding that 251 artisans received national quality labels. 

More than 144,000 craftsmen in the Fez Meknes region work in artistic and production-related crafts. The region has 44,000 artisanal units or 16% of the national total.

Fez-Meknes generates nearly MAD 10.6 billion ($1.06 billion), or 11% of Morocco’s total handicraft revenue from production and services, Belkhayat indicated. 

Handicraft exports from Fez-Meknes stood at MAD 143 million ($14.3 million) in 2024. The region is home to 641 craftsmen with national quality labels, accounting for 25% of the country's total, as well as 525 firms, which account for 23% of Moroccan handicraft enterprises.

Morocco’s handicraft industry contributes significantly to its cultural legacy and economic growth. Based on centuries-old traditions, the crafts tell the country’s history and creative character.

Transcending its historic value, the industry is a key source of employment, supporting hundreds of thousands of artists and small enterprises. It also helps the national economy by increasing GDP, income, and exports.  

As demand for Moroccan handicrafts develops both locally and globally, the industry remains an essential pillar in conserving history and generating economic possibilities.