CONTACTS: +254 726879488 (Mobile)
+254770 455 116 (Office)
@steveumidha
The government has highlighted interest in strengthening bilateral cooperation with Morocco as a way to reverse considerable trade imbalance that has existed between the two nations.
The trade between the two countries is valued at about Sh300million and currently tilted in Morocco’s favor, with exports from Kenya to Morocco standing at Sh282.7 million as at 2012 while imports were Sh312 million during the period.
Speaking during a reception to mark the 17th anniversary of the enthronement day of his majesty Mohammed VI, king of morocco, Senator for Kajiado County Peter Mositet – who represented the government said that Kenya, “is committed to working closely with the Embassy of Morocco to fully realize the potential of trade investment and tourism in line with our commitment for close cooperation.”
The two countries had in 2013 signed MoU to improve and boost cross-country trade but little progress has been achieved since then.
“I am confident that the direct flights between Nairobi and Casablanca will open up the market, stimulate travel, boost tourism, and improve trade between our two countries,” Mositet added.
The announcement comes barely five months (in March, 2016) following the launch of direct flights by Morocco’s national carrier, Royal Air Maroc between Nairobi and Casablanca.
The direct two weekly flights to JKIA connection is hoped will significantly reduce the cost and distance of travel as well deepen the relatively low trade between the two countries. Prior to the launch of Royal Air Maroc, the flights to Casablanca required a connection via Dubai or Europe.