The fifth China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo (CAETE) opened Wednesday in Casablanca under the theme “Discovering Africa,” with the participation of approximately 250 Moroccan and Chinese companies, illustrating the growing dynamism of economic relations between Morocco and China.
Organized jointly by the CAETE Organizing Committee Secretariat and the Ministry of Industry and Trade, this three-day expo, comprising nine thematic areas, is part of the tenth anniversary celebrations of the establishment of the strategic partnership between China and Morocco.
On this occasion, Yu Hongsheng, Vice Governor of the People’s Government of Hunan Province, emphasized that Morocco, with its strategic geographic location, its rapidly developing industrial sector, and its dynamic economic opening, represents a true crossroads between Europe and Africa.
According to the Chinese official, Morocco is a strategic foothold for Hunan Province, both for consolidating its presence in North Africa and for expanding its access to European markets.
He also highlighted the complementarity of the two economies, noting that Hunan boasts an advanced industrial base, strong manufacturing capacity, and significant innovation potential, while Morocco stands out for its resources, sectoral competitiveness, and regional positioning—all assets that foster the emergence of high-potential economic partnerships.
For his part, Zhou Zhicheng, Chargé d’Affaires and Minister-Counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Morocco, welcomed the strong participation of Chinese companies in the exhibition, recalling that this year marks the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the Morocco-China strategic partnership.
He affirmed that bilateral relations are experiencing positive momentum and are based on the principles of mutual respect and win-win partnership.
Furthermore, Mr. Zhicheng noted the growing interest of Chinese companies in the Moroccan market, commending the efforts of Moroccan authorities to provide a favorable environment for investment and the development of Chinese economic activities in the Kingdom.
For his part, Mehdi Laraki, President of the Morocco-China Business Council of the General Confederation of Moroccan Enterprises (CGEM), stated that holding this exhibition in Morocco reflects the deepening of Sino-Moroccan economic relations and the mutual trust that has been built over the years between the business communities of the two countries.
For several years, the CGEM has been actively engaged in developing economic relations between Morocco and China through various initiatives, including economic missions, institutional partnerships, and ongoing exchanges with Chinese economic stakeholders, he explained, adding that the Morocco-China Business Council plays a crucial role in this regard by acting as a permanent platform for dialogue, strengthening ties, and supporting businesses from both countries.
As for Kenza Khalil, Secretary General of the Moroccan Agency for Investment and Export Development (AMDIE), she noted that this exhibition aims to be a true forum for convergence between the ambitions and know-how of Chinese partners and Moroccan expertise in development and investment.
She continued, explaining that this event aims to foster value creation and promote a dynamic of shared development between the two countries.
Ms. Khalil pointed out that the CAETE 2026 is taking place within a context marked by the continuous strengthening of Sino-Moroccan relations, based on mutual trust, reciprocal respect, and a shared commitment to deepening the bilateral partnership.
The exhibition program includes a session on economic and trade networking between Morocco and China, in addition to B2B meetings between operators from both countries.
This edition is expected to contribute to strengthening bilateral synergies and expanding opportunities for collaboration and development for Moroccan and Chinese companies.
source: https://www.lereporter.ma/casablanca-abrite-la-5eme-exposition-economique-et-commerciale-sino-africaine/
