The extensive relations between Russia and Morocco are poised to serve as an additional tool for the Kremlin in reshaping the shifting balance of power in the African Sahel region, where French influence is waning, and a power vacuum is emerging, according to a report published on the “Russia Briefing” website. Although Morocco is not Russia’s largest trading or investment partner, its geopolitical importance is growing, especially considering it holds some of the world’s largest deposits of raw materials such as phosphate and uranium.
The report, authored by Georgian academic Emile Avdaliani, highlights that human dimensions also play a role in these relations. Morocco has become a new tourist destination preferred by Russian citizens who are increasingly uncomfortable vacationing in European countries. The report notes that there are frequent direct flights between Morocco and Russia, leading to record levels of tourism in 2023.
Furthermore, the source mentions that Morocco ranks as Russia’s third-largest trading partner among African countries, following Egypt and Algeria. In 2021, Russia’s exports to Morocco reached nearly $1.6 billion, a 58.50% increase compared to 2020, accounting for 9.3% of Russia’s total trade with the African continent.
Trade between Russia and Morocco is deemed significant, constituting a large part of Russia’s overall trade with Africa. In 2022, trade between the two countries amounted to $6.7 billion, primarily in the agricultural sector. Russian importers are particularly interested in importing grapes, citrus fruits, nuts, and cocoa beans from Morocco and other North and East African countries.