Morocco’s diaspora remittances reach 89.2 billion dirhams by August

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By: Azzat Manal

Morocco’s diaspora remittances reach 89.2 billion dirhams by August

Remittances sent by Moroccans living abroad continued to grow in 2026, reaching 89.2 billion dirhams by the end of August, according to provisional figures from Morocco’s Office des Changes. The amount represents a 9% increase compared with the same period a year earlier.

The latest figure compares with 81.85 billion dirhams recorded during the first eight months of 2025, representing an additional 7.37 billion dirhams in transfers over one year. The increase marks a return to stronger growth after remittances edged down slightly in 2025.

Remittances from the Moroccan diaspora remain an important source of financial flows into the country. For many households, the funds provide support for everyday expenses and other needs, while part of the money can also contribute to consumption, savings and investment.

At the national level, these transfers also contribute to Morocco’s foreign-currency resources alongside other external revenue streams, including tourism and exports. The latest data show that tourism receipts reached nearly 97.9 billion dirhams during the same eight-month period, up 9.7% year on year.

The evolution of remittances in recent years shows some variation. Transfers rose from 72.73 billion dirhams in January-August 2022 to 77.98 billion in 2023 and 82.20 billion in 2024. They then slipped slightly to 81.85 billion in 2025 before reaching 89.22 billion in 2026.

The 2026 increase comes as Morocco continues to maintain strong economic ties with its diaspora, whose financial contributions extend beyond direct household transfers to include investment and other economic activities linked to the country.

The figures also come against a broader external-finance backdrop. During the first eight months of 2026, Morocco’s imports increased by 15.8% year on year to 617.5 billion dirhams, while exports rose 8.7% to 334.9 billion dirhams, widening the merchandise trade deficit by 25.4%.

The final annual total for diaspora remittances will depend on transfers recorded during the remaining months of 2026. If the current pace continues, the year could mark a further increase in the financial contribution of Moroccans living abroad to the country’s external flows.