OIC appoints Morocco as vice-president of SME network in Baku

Friday 10 October 2025 - 07:50

By: Dakir Madiha

OIC appoints Morocco as vice-president of SME network in Baku

Morocco has been appointed vice-president of the Small and Medium Enterprises Network of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC-SMENET), marking a new milestone in its commitment to supporting entrepreneurship and economic cooperation across the Islamic world. The announcement was made by the National Agency for the Promotion of Small and Medium Enterprises (Maroc PME).

The appointment, made alongside Saudi Arabia, took place during the inaugural session of the OIC SME Network held on the sidelines of the second Azerbaijani Halal Trade Forum on October 7–8 in Baku. Maroc PME stated that the recognition represents an important acknowledgment of Morocco’s leadership in promoting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) among OIC member states.

According to the agency, this nomination reflects Maroc PME’s dedication to advancing both national and international entrepreneurial ecosystems, with a focus on competitiveness and sustainability.

Morocco’s leadership in SME development

Representing Morocco at the event, Anouar Alaoui Ismaili, Director General of Maroc PME, participated in the adoption of the Baku Declaration, which outlines the framework for future cooperation within the OIC SME Network.

Ismaili highlighted Morocco’s intention to foster a robust platform for economic collaboration, knowledge sharing, and joint innovation among OIC countries. He emphasized the importance of building a network based on solidarity and the exchange of best practices to enhance collective capacities and promote inclusive, sustainable development.

He further noted that Maroc PME, known for its expertise in business support and development, is well-positioned to contribute actively to this cooperative framework. Backed by a diverse network of experts specializing in innovation, marketing, and industrialization, the agency plans to share its successful experience in vital sectors such as tourism, green industry, and exports.

Strengthening the OIC economic ecosystem

The OIC SME Network, launched under the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, aims to strengthen institutional and economic collaboration among its member countries. Its mission is to encourage the exchange of best practices, expertise, and resources while supporting the growth of competitive, sustainable small and medium enterprises.

Through this appointment, Morocco reaffirms its strategic role in fostering South-South cooperation and enhancing regional integration within the Islamic economic community. The country’s contribution is expected to further boost innovation and entrepreneurship across OIC member states, positioning SMEs as a key driver of shared prosperity and resilience.