Global Economy
Manufacturing Sector Forecasts Production Gain in Q2‑2026
The High Commission for Planning (HCP) reports that Moroccan manufacturers expect a rise in output during the second quarter of 2026, driven mainly by food, chemicals, automotive and electrical equipment segments. While production in the paper‑cardboard and textile sectors is projected to fall, employment levels are expected to stay broadly stable across the manufacturing umbrella. In contrast, the extractive industry foresees a dip in output, especially in phosphate mining, and the energy sector anticipates higher generation from electricity, gas and steam distribution.
Listen to this article
Unlock audio versions of premium articles and more with a Pro subscription.
Manufacturing outlook for Q2‑2026
The High Commission for Planning (HCP) released its latest quarterly business survey indicating that Moroccan manufacturers expect a modest uplift in output during the second quarter of 2026.
Growth drivers: The boost is mainly linked to higher activity in the food industry, chemical sector, automotive industry and the manufacture of electrical equipment. Conversely, the paper‑and‑cardboard and textile branches are projected to see a downturn.
Employment outlook: Across the manufacturing umbrella, companies forecast overall staff levels to remain largely unchanged.
Extractive and energy sectors
The extractive industry expects a decline in production for Q2‑2026, driven chiefly by lower phosphate output, and a corresponding reduction in workforce.
Energy production, however, is set to rise, thanks to increased generation and distribution of electricity, gas, steam and air‑conditioning services. Employment in this sector is expected to contract during the same period.
Environmental and ancillary industries
Environmental firms anticipate steady production, especially in water capture, treatment and distribution, with stable employment numbers.
Back‑to‑back with Q1‑2026
The HCP notes that manufacturing output was essentially flat in the first quarter of 2026. The stability stemmed from gains in chemicals, electrical‑equipment manufacturing and clothing, which were offset by drops in automotive, rubber‑and‑plastic products and metal‑product manufacturing (excluding machinery).
Order books are described by business leaders as “normal” and the overall capacity utilization rate for manufacturing stands at 74%.