Foreign Secretary visits Morocco to expand trade and investment ties
The UK has signed a series of major agreements with Morocco, unlocking billions of pounds in new trade and investment opportunities for British businesses, during Foreign Secretary David Lammy’s official visit ahead of the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
Key highlights:
Infrastructure Contracts for 2030 FIFA World Cup
British firms are now well-positioned to win infrastructure projects in Morocco as the country prepares to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup. UK businesses are expected to support development in key host cities such as Casablanca, Rabat, and Marrakech—injecting fresh capital into the UK construction and engineering sectors.
Access to £33 Billion in Procurement Opportunities
The UK has secured access to Morocco’s public procurement market, estimated at £33 billion over the next three years. This includes high-profile projects like the £1.2 billion expansion of Casablanca Airport, part of Morocco’s broader "Airports 2030" programme, which is expected to involve UK expertise.
Healthcare Cooperation Worth £2 Billion
A new partnership will support Morocco’s national healthcare reforms, representing over £2 billion in opportunities. A separate £150 million project will see UK funding and clinical expertise used to build a 250-bed hospital in Casablanca, with revenue benefits for an NHS trust.
Water, Ports, and Green Infrastructure
An agreement worth up to £200 million will enable UK firms to contribute to Morocco’s water and port infrastructure. This includes smart logistics and green technology, promoting sustainable development and showcasing UK innovation.
Support for UK Exports and Healthcare Equipment
As part of Morocco’s healthcare system overhaul, the UK will supply medical equipment and life sciences technology. The transformation, with planned spending of up to £2.8 billion, presents major export opportunities for the UK’s health and life sciences sectors.
Strategic partnership strengthened
These deals deepen a bilateral trade relationship already worth over £4 billion annually. The UK government sees Morocco as a strategic partner in Africa—both economically and geopolitically.
The Foreign Secretary, David Lammy said:
“Africa has one of the greatest growth potentials of any continent - this young, dynamic population makes the continent an engine room for growth.
Growth and prosperity will underpin our relationship Morocco and beyond, helping forge new opportunities at home and abroad.
That is why I am visiting the country, to foster new business relationships between the UK and Morocco, and deliver on our commitment to strengthen our economy. These announcements mean UK businesses will be able to score big in the delivery of the 2030 World Cup.
The UK has chosen to endorse autonomy within the Moroccan state as the most credible, viable, and pragmatic basis for a mutually-agreed and lasting solution to the Western Sahara dispute, one that can deliver on our commitments to conflict resolution in the region and self-determination for the people of Western Sahara”.
Minister for Trade Policy, Douglas Alexander said:
“Morocco is becoming an increasingly important trade and investment partner for the UK.
Growth is this government’s top priority and stronger ties with economies like Morocco will pave the way for new opportunities, supporting British businesses and creating jobs.
UK companies are already securing major commercial wins in Morocco, playing a vital role in delivering critical infrastructure for the 2030 World Cup”.
New UK policy on Western Sahara
The UK has also announced a new policy position on Western Sahara. It now endorses Morocco’s autonomy plan as the most credible and pragmatic basis for a lasting resolution—supporting the UN-led peace process and the principle of self-determination.
Broader Cooperation
In addition to trade, the UK and Morocco are enhancing cooperation in areas such as:
Migration
Counterterrorism
Water scarcity and climate action
A new chapter in UK foreign policy
This visit reflects the UK’s broader strategy to re-engage with African nations through what it calls a “Progressive Realist” approach—building partnerships based on mutual respect and shared economic and security goals.
Foreign Secretary Lammy will also attend the Ibrahim Governance Weekend in Marrakech, meeting African leaders to discuss common challenges, including regional security and climate change. Photo by Sdrawkcab at English Wikipedia.