A groundbreaking national study presented in Casablanca by the Institute of Family Business Morocco (IEF-Maroc) has revealed the significant contribution of family-owned businesses to Morocco’s economy. Conducted with the support of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, the study found that family businesses account for 92.9% of the country’s entrepreneurial fabric, generate 60.5% of national value added, and provide nearly 65% of all jobs in Morocco, representing approximately 6.3 million positions.
The findings were unveiled during the third General Assembly of IEF-Maroc and highlighted the crucial role family businesses play in employment creation, wealth generation, local economic development, and the preservation of expertise across generations.
Speaking at the event, Minister of Industry and Trade Ryad Mezzour described family businesses as the “backbone of Moroccan commerce and the national economy,” emphasizing the importance of ensuring successful succession and continuity to strengthen the country’s productive fabric.
The study also points to major challenges facing family businesses, particularly intergenerational succession. Only 15% of family-owned companies successfully reach the third generation, making governance, leadership transition, and long-term sustainability key priorities.
According to IEF-Maroc President Kacem Bennani-Smires, the research represents the first scientific and structured effort to measure the real economic weight of family businesses in Morocco. The report further notes that nearly three out of four family businesses are micro, small, or medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), underscoring their vital role in regional development and job creation.
The study concludes by identifying several priorities to strengthen the sustainability of family businesses, including improved succession planning, better access to financing for family SMEs, stronger governance practices, and support for growth and transformation initiatives.
