Daily Press Review - Tuesday, February 13, 2024

Moroccan Tourism Thriving: Record Results in 2023

Morocco experienced an exceptional year in tourism in 2023, surpassing set targets and confirming the country's position as a premier destination internationally. These results underscore the relevance of strategies implemented by the Ministry of Tourism for sector recovery post-Covid-19 crisis. The upward trend is firmly established, promising a bright future. Morocco aims to welcome 17.5 million tourists and generate 120 billion dirhams in revenue by 2026. Current momentum and sector efforts are poised to achieve these ambitious goals.

Aujourd'hui le Maroc

Opening of the 4th Science Week at UM6P: Focus on "Transitions"

The Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) in Benguerir hosted the launch of the fourth edition of "Science Week" under the theme "Transitions" on Monday. This event gathers eminent figures from the academic and scientific worlds to explore the latest advancements in various key fields. Science Week 2024 focuses on "transitions" in areas such as energy, medicine, economics, finance, digitalization, and climate change. Continuing the legacy of previous editions, which tackled significant themes like "humanity" and "complexity," UM6P asserts itself as a center of excellence in scientific research and a major advocate for international dialogue and collaboration.

Le Matin du Sahara

Increase in Schengen Visa Fees: Project under Study

The European Commission is considering raising Schengen visa fees for adults to 90 euros (980 MAD) and for children to 45 euros (490 MAD). This proposal is currently open for public consultation until March 1, 2024. The European Commission justifies this increase citing factors such as inflation in the European Union, changes in national civil servants' compensation, and the need to cover visa application processing costs. This fee hike will directly impact visa applicants, including those from Morocco, who will need to allocate more funds to obtain a Schengen visa.

Aviation: Morocco Strengthens Regulatory Framework for Aircraft Registration and Identification

Morocco has adopted a new decree regarding the registration and identification of aircraft, mortgage registration, and related forced sales. This measure aims to clarify and align national legislation with international standards while enhancing aviation safety. The decree comes in the wake of questions raised about aircraft traceability following the recent Russian plane crash in Afghanistan.

Aujourd'hui le Maroc

Morocco: 14,245 Business Failures in 2023, an Alarming Situation

A report by Inforisk reveals a concerning 15% increase in business failures in Morocco, highlighting the fragility of the national economic fabric. Key factors include difficulties accessing financing, inflation, and payment delays. Moroccan businesses struggle to secure necessary funding for development, hindering their growth and rendering them more vulnerable to economic shocks. Additionally, inflationary pressures on raw material and finished product prices erode profit margins, jeopardizing viability. Furthermore, client payment delays strain business cash flow, potentially leading to bankruptcy.

Al Bayane

RSE-CGEM Label Trophy: Al Omrane Awarded

Nine subsidiaries of the Al Omrane Group received the RSE-CGEM Label Trophy during a ceremony held at the headquarters of the General Confederation of Moroccan Enterprises (CGEM) in Casablanca. Presided over by Mr. Chakib Alj, President of CGEM, and attended by the General Managers of subsidiary companies, this accolade honors Al Omrane Group's commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and its socially responsible initiatives.

Al Bayane

Rabat: March in Support of Palestine

Thousands of Moroccans demonstrated in Rabat on Sunday to express solidarity with the Palestinian people and denounce the Gaza conflict. The protest drew a massive crowd to the capital's streets. Men, women, and children chanted slogans in support of Palestine and against Israel. The presence of Palestinian flags and keffiyehs symbolized strong Moroccan solidarity with the Palestinian people.

L'Opinion