Japan–Morocco at 70: A Pragmatic Partnership with Momentum

With 70 years of Japan–Morocco relations on the horizon in 2026, Ambassador Masahiro Nakata sees a partnership gaining substance, from new investment and tax agreements to a larger Japanese business presence supporting jobs in Morocco. He highlights strong opportunities in renewables, desalination, and quality infrastructure, with Morocco’s 2030 FIFA World Cup preparations creating timely demand for Japanese technology and know-how. Cultural links are growing too, from martial arts and anime to a widening network of Moroccan alumni of Japanese programs. From here, Ambassador Nakata maps a pragmatic, green, inclusive partnership under the 2024 framework, supported by public-private dialogue and measurable progress.

Bridges: How would you describe the current state of Morocco-Japan relations as we approach 70 years of diplomatic ties in 2026?

As we approach the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Morocco and Japan in 2026, the relationship between our two countries has reached significant milestones. In recent years, we have successfully concluded both the Agreement for the protection and promotion of investment and the Convention for the Elimination of Double Taxation with the Moroccan government. Our foreign ministers also concurred last year on strengthening the partnership between our two nations.

Japan considers Morocco strategically important as a major supplier of seafood, such as octopus and tuna, and phosphate-related materials. Conversely, for Morocco, Japan is a key contributor to job creation, with 75 Japanese companies operating in the country and generating approximately 50,000 jobs—the number expected to grow.

Japanese companies highly value the quality of Moroccan workers, the Moroccan government’s efforts to enhance the investment environment, and the country’s future potential. We anticipate further expansion of Japanese business activities in Morocco.

For example, Japanese car sales in Morocco are significantly lower than that of European brands, indicating untapped potential in the Moroccan market. Similarly, Moroccan products have room to grow in the Japanese market. While Moroccan argan oil is well-known in Japan, the recent lift on citrus fruit imports from Morocco is expected to boost exports to Japan.

Steady efforts by both the public and private sectors are crucial for strengthening and expanding trade and investment between our two countries.

As we approach the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Morocco and Japan in 2026, the relationship between our two countries has reached significant milestones.

Masahiro Nakata, Ambassador of Japan to Morocco

What opportunities do you see for expanding trade and economic cooperation between Morocco and Japan?

I am impressed by Morocco’s progress in infrastructure development and investment environment improvement, particularly in preparation for the 2030 FIFA World Cup. Morocco’s focus on renewable energy and desalination is commendable, as the country fully utilizes its abundant wind and solar energy resources.

These fields have substantial potential for sustainable growth and mutual benefits through the application of Japan’s advanced technology and expertise.

Regarding development cooperation through Official Development Assistance (ODA), Japan aims to bolster Morocco’s economic competitiveness by supporting key industries such as water supply, fisheries, agriculture, infrastructure development, local development, healthcare, and education.

Japan will align its ODA more closely with Morocco’s international status and its own priorities, as it is becoming an upper-middle-income country.

How have the 60 years since the Moroccan Embassy opened in Tokyo shaped cultural and diplomatic ties?

Despite the geographical distance, Morocco and Japan share valuable commonalities that cherish history and tradition. For example, Morocco is a monarchy with a rich history and Japan has a longstanding imperial family.

Despite the geographical distance, Morocco and Japan share valuable commonalities that cherish history and tradition.

Cultural interest between our countries has been growing significantly. Traditional Japanese martial arts like Judo, Aikido, Karate, and Kendo have gained popularity in Morocco. Additionally, Japanese manga, anime, and J-pop are becoming rapidly popular among Moroccan youth, as demonstrated by the screening of films like “Demon Slayer” in the country.

The number of Japanese language learners in Morocco has also been increasing, making it the second-largest country in North Africa, after Egypt. Over 200 Moroccan students have studied in Japan on Japanese government scholarships, forming a community of Japan enthusiasts among those with study or work experience in Japan. The Moroccan Embassy in Japan has played a vital role in promoting bilateral exchanges in a broader sense. As we approach the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026, I am committed to working in close collaboration with the Moroccan Embassy in Japan to foster exchanges between future generations of both countries, further strengthening our friendship.

What is your vision for the future of the Morocco-Japan partnership? 

In 2024, Morocco and Japan signed a Memorandum of Cooperation to bolster our partnership, expressing a shared will to elevate bilateral relations. The memorandum emphasizes promoting investment, quality infrastructure, and social and economic development with green, inclusive, and sustainable principles. It also highlights cooperation in various fields, including space, food, agriculture, fisheries, climate change, disaster risk reduction, and water resource management.

It is crucial to further develop and expand the relationship between Morocco and Japan based on this strengthened partnership, through dialogues and cooperation between the governments and public-private sectors. The goals we aspire to achieve are ambitious, but I am confident that with the spirit of friendship and cooperation, both countries will accomplish them.

www.ma.emb-japan.go.jp

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