Diaspora remittances reach $4 billion in early 2026

09:37

By: Dakir Madiha

Diaspora remittances reach $4 billion in early 2026

Remittances from Moroccans living abroad reached MAD 39.98 billion, about $4 billion, by the end of April 2026. The figure marks a 9.8% increase compared with MAD 36.43 billion recorded during the same period in 2025.

The rise adds MAD 3.55 billion in additional inflows over one year. It reflects stronger transfers from the Moroccan diaspora across the first four months of 2026.

Growth in 2026 shows faster momentum than the previous year. In 2025, diaspora remittances increased by 2.6% to reach MAD 122 billion over the full year. These inflows remain a central source of foreign currency for Morocco alongside tourism revenues and phosphate exports.

Tourism-related inflows also recorded solid gains. Receipts reached MAD 44.39 billion, up 21.2% year on year. Spending abroad increased at a slower pace of 5.4% to MAD 9.84 billion. The travel balance surplus widened to MAD 34.55 billion, an increase of 26.7%.

The services sector showed a similar pattern of expansion. Its surplus reached MAD 54.91 billion. Service exports rose 13.9% while imports increased 11.4%, maintaining a positive balance despite higher external demand.

Foreign direct investment flows moved in the opposite direction. Net inflows declined 10.1% to MAD 11.66 billion. Investment receipts fell 19.6% while outward expenditures dropped 37.2%, showing reduced cross-border capital inflows into Morocco.

Moroccan investment abroad increased sharply. Net outward direct investment rose 41.9% to MAD 3.47 billion, driven by higher spending by Moroccan firms outside the country.

The merchandise trade deficit widened significantly. Imports grew 12.7% to MAD 295.9 billion, led by capital goods, raw materials, consumer goods, and energy products. Exports rose 8.7% to MAD 168.86 billion, supported mainly by automotive and aeronautics sectors.

The trade coverage rate fell to 57.1%. The combined goods and services deficit reached MAD 57.29 billion, while the overall coverage rate declined to 81.6% from 83.3% a year earlier.