According to verified data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) and national budget reports, Morocco allocated approximately 5.4 billion euros to defense in 2025, representing 3.54% of its GDP. This spending increase of 14.9% compared to 2024 places Morocco as the 15th country globally in terms of defense expenditure as a share of GDP.
In comparison, Algeria's defense budget for 2025 is estimated at around 9.1 billion euros, or 4.8% of its GDP, according to SIPRI and Algerian official statements. This makes Algeria one of the top military spenders in Africa and the Arab world, reflecting its ongoing military modernization and regional posture.
The North African defense landscape is shaped by regional tensions, including the Western Sahara dispute and broader Sahel security challenges. Both Morocco and Algeria have increased military budgets in recent years, with Morocco focusing on equipment upgrades and Algeria on force modernization.
Experts note that while Morocco's defense spending as a percentage of GDP is high by global standards, it remains below Algeria's, which has long maintained one of the largest military budgets in Africa. The data underscores the competitive dynamic between the two neighbors.
