The Unbalanced Free Trade Agreement Between Morocco and Turkey

Abstract

This article sheds light on Morocco and Turkey’s economies before and after the free trade agreement, explaining the reasons that prevented Morocco from benefiting from the FTA of 2006. This topic constitutes one of the most important agreements and got huge media attention, especially in Morocco. Morocco has always been an important country for Turkey and has managed to maintain its significance over the years. Additionally, it must be emphasized that the Kingdom plays a critical role in developing commercial and economic relations with the countries of the region and the continent of Africa in general. The free trade agreement between these two countries was signed in Ankara on April 7, 2004, and entered into force at the beginning of 2006. Accordingly, this article will demonstrate the Moroccan economy as well as the Turkish economy, compare both countries’ economies before and after the FTA of 2006, and show the history of their bilateral relationship. The importance of this study lies in its ambitious attempt to comprehend and explain why this FTA is not benefiting Morocco as much as was expected.