According to the African Development Bank's 2025 Africa Industrialization Index, Morocco has overtaken South Africa to become the most industrialized country in Africa. The index, released in early 2026, ranks Morocco first with a score of 55.2 out of 100, followed by South Africa at 54.8 and Egypt at 51.2. This marks a significant shift after South Africa held the top position for over a decade.
The index measures countries on four pillars: manufacturing output, infrastructure, human capital, and business environment. Morocco's rise is attributed to its automotive and aerospace sectors, which have attracted foreign investment and boosted exports. The country's automotive industry alone accounted for over $14 billion in exports in 2025, making it Africa's largest car producer.
South Africa's decline is linked to structural challenges, including energy shortages and logistics bottlenecks, which have hampered manufacturing growth. The index notes that while South Africa remains a regional leader, its industrial output has stagnated relative to peers. Egypt, Tunisia, and Mauritius round out the top five, with scores of 51.2, 48.7, and 46.3 respectively.
The African Development Bank emphasizes that industrialization is critical for job creation and economic diversification across the continent. The 2025 index covers 52 African countries, with the lowest scores recorded in South Sudan, Somalia, and the Central African Republic. The report calls for increased investment in infrastructure and skills development to accelerate industrial growth.
