Editorial – Formidable

The entry into force, on January 01, 2026, of the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) marks a turning point for Morocco, both in terms of climate and geo-economics, as 65% of its exports are destined for the European market . Six strategic sectors are affected, and according to analysts, more than 10% of Moroccan exports to the EU could, in theory, be impacted.
In reality, the immediate shock is largely mitigated, as the targeted sectors have already begun their transition. The Moroccan steel industry produces green steel, the electricity and cement sectors have accelerated their decarbonization, and exportable hydrogen will only become available from 2027 onwards, directly in a «green» form. For nitrogen fertilizers, OCP has taken a significant lead by securing its water supply, switching to renewable energies, and drastically reducing its carbon footprint. However, this is only a temporary reprieve. The real turning point is coming in 2027-2028, with the extension to textiles and agribusiness, sectors heavily dependent on the EU and still insufficiently prepared. The same applies to upstream agriculture, which is intensive in chemical inputs. By 2028-2029, even services and logistics platforms will be put to the test. Behind these new «visas» lies an inexorable shift in Moroccan industrial competitiveness: adapt quickly or lose market share. These transformations call for strengthening the technical capacities of exporting companies, massive investments in renewable energies and skillful economic diplomacy to have the country’s efforts in this area recognized.
Because now, in international trade, carbon has become a barrier as formidable as customs duties.