Family businesses are a cornerstone of Morocco's economy, accounting for over 60% of the country's GDP and employing approximately 80% of the private sector workforce, according to a 2025 report by the Moroccan Confederation of Enterprises (CGEM). These enterprises range from small family-run shops to large conglomerates in sectors like manufacturing, retail, and real estate.
However, a 2024 study by the Mohammed VI Polytechnic University highlighted that only 30% of family businesses in Morocco survive to the second generation, and just 10% to the third. Key challenges include lack of formal governance structures, difficulty in separating family and business roles, and limited access to financing for expansion.
To address these issues, the Moroccan government launched the 'Family Business Charter' in 2025, offering tax incentives and training programs to encourage professional management and succession planning. The initiative aims to preserve the economic contributions of these enterprises while ensuring their long-term sustainability.
Experts emphasize that without proper planning, many family businesses risk closure or sale, potentially impacting employment and economic stability. The CGEM recommends that families adopt clear governance rules, invest in digital transformation, and prepare successors early to maintain their competitive edge.
