Morocco leads North Africa in economic freedom despite structural challenges

Morocco has secured the top position in North Africa for economic freedom,ranking 101st globally out of 196 countries in the 2025 Nomad Capitalist Freedom Index,though structural obstacles continue to limit its full economic potential.

The tax and migration advisory firm’s index evaluated countries across five pillars: financial freedom (30 percent),asset protection (25 percent),human rights (20 percent),safety (15 percent),and quality of life (10 percent). Morocco achieved a balanced 30/50 overall score with consistent ratings across all categories.

Morocco’s economic environment benefits from constitutional guarantees supporting entrepreneurship,with Article 35 ensuring freedom to do business and fair competition. Law 104-12 on Competition reinforces market transparency and prevents monopolistic practices. Growing digitalization has streamlined business establishment processes while targeted tax incentives attract foreign investors.

The country’s stable monetary policy,controlled inflation,and strong international trade networks create favorable conditions for entrepreneurs and investors. However,administrative delays,legal opacity,a pervasive informal sector,and rigid labor markets continue impeding Morocco’s advancement.

Regionally,Morocco outperforms North African peers through fiscal reforms,robust public investment strategies,and deliberate efforts to attract international talent. The Heritage Foundation also recognizes Morocco’s market openness and relative stability amid global uncertainty.

While Morocco’s score trails better-performing African nations like Ghana and Cape Verde (39.5/50),improvements in rule of law,property rights protection,and business climate enhancement could elevate future rankings. The challenge remains translating political vision into tangible outcomes,ensuring economic freedom extends beyond paper promises to practical reality.