The Moroccan Association of Textile and Clothing Industries (AMITH) and the Swiss Textile Federation have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) in Bern, Switzerland. The agreement, witnessed by Morocco’s Industry and Trade Minister Ryad Mezzour and Swiss Federal Councillor for Economy, Training, and Research Guy Parmelin, aims to bolster the partnership between textile sector representatives from both countries and enhance competitiveness.
AMITH President Anas El Ansari expressed optimism about the memorandum, highlighting its potential to fortify relations with Swiss investors and customers. “Moroccan textiles are advanced in the ready-to-wear industry, but we face challenges with raw fabrics. This is why we are keen for Swiss units to establish themselves in the Moroccan market to supply this raw product, thereby boosting our access to new European and American markets,” he stated.
El Ansari emphasized the complementary nature of the Swiss and Moroccan textile sectors, noting that each generates annual sales of approximately 6 billion euros. The Moroccan textile industry employs around 220,000 workers across 1,500 companies, while the Swiss sector employs about 20,000 workers.
Carl Illi, President of the Swiss Textile Federation, echoed this optimism, praising the high performance and skilled workforce of Morocco’s textile sector. He underscored the importance of evolving collaboration to meet common interests amid global geopolitical shifts.
The agreement not only aims to facilitate trade but also to organize joint events such as seminars, workshops, and meetings between entrepreneurs from both countries. These initiatives are expected to further the interests of the textile sectors in Morocco and Switzerland, fostering growth and cooperation.
The MoU marks a significant step towards stronger bilateral ties and mutual growth in the textile industry, reflecting the commitment of both nations to navigate and thrive in the evolving global market.