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Daily Press Review - Monday, January 15, 2024

Monday 15 January 2024 - 10:21

Les Inspirations Eco

Café and Restaurant Owners Take a Stand

The café and restaurant sector in the Casablanca-Settat region is going through a challenging period, as indicated by the recent statement from the National Federation of Café and Restaurant Owners in Morocco (FNPCRM): "In Casablanca alone, the number of closures has reached 8,964 units, resulting in the loss of 53,784 jobs in 2023." During its inaugural regional congress on January 10 at the Casablanca Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Services, the FNPCRM provided a distressing overview while analyzing the causes and proposing solutions to salvage the sector.

One of the primary causes of the crisis affecting the café and restaurant sector in the Casablanca-Settat region is the emphasis on fines and penalties. The FNPCRM estimates that the "exorbitant" fines and penalties from the National Social Security Fund affect 39.5% of all establishments in the region. The FNCRM members also point fingers at the abuses of "certain inspectors" from the Fund. Other factors such as municipal taxes, tax revisions, and "imprudent decisions" by municipal councils have contributed to the closure of 23.24% of cafes, restaurants, and snacks.

Noured-dine El Flarrak, President of FNPCRM, attributes the sector's crisis to the rise in certain food products such as butter and olive oil, as well as the consequences of the Covid period, forcing many establishments to close. He also highlights significant increases in public space rental prices in certain regions, questioning the jump from 50 DH/m2 per quarter to 550 DH in Rabat.

The FNPCRM regional congress also highlighted the growing threat of competition from mobile cafes and restaurants, impacting 10.24% of establishments. In conclusion, the FNPCRM calls on the Ministry of Economy and Finance to cancel all fines and penalties while urging the implementation of a framework law by the Ministry of the Interior to regulate municipal taxes.

Aujourd'hui le Maroc

Bank Al-Maghrib Introduces the New 200 Dirhams Banknote

As part of the issuance of the new series of banknotes and coins, Bank Al-Maghrib has put the new 200 dirhams banknote into circulation since last Friday. This release coincides with the celebration of the 80th anniversary of the presentation of the Independence Manifesto. The new 200 dirhams banknote highlights the economic and industrial development achieved under the enlightened leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, as stated in a central bank press release. The graphic representations on the note include infrastructure, industry, and development themes. The front of the note features the portrait of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, the Coat of Arms of the Kingdom, and a representation of the "Mohammed VI" cable-stayed bridge. The back of the note includes a stylized view of the "Mohammed VI" Tower and the "Marrakech-Menara" international airport, along with symbols representing industrial and digital development in Morocco.

LE MATIN DU SAHARA

Atlas Lionesses 90 Minutes Away from Historic U20 World Cup Qualification

The national women's U20 team secured a crucial 2-0 victory against Ethiopia in the first leg of the fourth and final round of qualifiers for the U20 World Cup in Colombia 2024 last Saturday. Goals from Yasmine Zouhir (10th minute) and Ambre Basser (51st minute) paved the way for a comfortable lead for the Atlas Lionesses. This victory puts Stéphane Nado's protégés in a strong position approaching the return match, scheduled for Sunday, January 21, in Addis Ababa.

The Lionesses are now on the brink of a historic qualification for the U20 World Cup, having passed a crucial stage after their first-leg success against Ethiopia. At El Abdi Stadium in El Jadida, Inès Souifi's teammates took the lead early, with Yasmine Zouhir's goal in the 10th minute.

Despite Ethiopia's attempts to respond, the Moroccan defense remained solid. In the second half, the Lionesses increased their pressure, sealing the victory with Ambre Basser's goal in the 51st minute. Although the Moroccans could have extended their lead, efficiency eluded them in the final meters. The Ethiopians failed to reach Inès Souifi's goal.

Confident, the Atlas Lionesses approach the return match in Addis Ababa on January 21 with determination. Stéphane Nado's squad must confirm the first-leg result and maintain the displayed level while capitalizing on the confidence and motivation gained in the initial encounter.

L'OPINION

Interview with Slimane El Omrani: AI Threatens, Morocco Must Anticipate

Slimane El Omrani, a specialist in digital transition, warns of the risks of Artificial Intelligence (AI) highlighted in the World Economic Forum's Global Risk Report. He emphasizes the need for Morocco to anticipate these dangers. Geopolitics: Davos Opens Amid Global Complexity The WEF's annual meeting in Davos brings together world leaders. Climate risks, diplomatic tensions, conflicts, and AI-driven misinformation are crucial points. The theme "rebuilding trust" highlights AI as a force for the economy and society.

L'ECONOMISTE

Moroccan Terroir Products Conquering the US Market

A Nasda delegation explores the Moroccan market to strengthen commercial ties. The Zniber group participates to expand its export opportunities and share agricultural experiences.

Exports of American Almonds on the Rise

The Nasda delegation includes representatives from California, a leader in the almond industry. In 2022, American almond exports to Morocco reached $96.35 million, a 37.14% increase in 2023. The United States is the main supplier of almonds to Morocco.