Remittances from Moroccans living abroad continue to play a major role in the Moroccan economy. According to the latest data from the Exchange Office, remittances from the diaspora exceeded $12.4 billion by the end of 2025.
By 2024, these transfers had already reached over $11.7 billion, representing more than 8% of the Kingdom's gross domestic product. This strategic resource allows Morocco to maintain its position among the leading recipients of remittances in the Middle East and North Africa region, according to the World Bank.
Behind these figures, more than 5 million Moroccans live abroad, mainly in Europe. France remains the top host country, followed by Spain, Belgium, and the Netherlands.
Beyond financial support for families, Rabat now aims to mobilize more of the diaspora's capital and skills towards productive investments. The objective is to support industrial projects and value-creating sectors in order to strengthen the Kingdom's economic growth, employment, and development.
Zimbabwe: The tobacco boom among small farmers
In southern Zimbabwe, more and more small farmers are turning to tobacco cultivation, which is considered more profitable than maize or sunflowers. The country hopes to harvest more than 360,000 tonnes this year, a record level.
In Figtree, farmer Read Sola chose tobacco after losing his crops to a parasite. "It destroyed all my crops," he explains.
However, the development of the sector raises environmental concerns related to deforestation caused by the drying of the leaves.
“We were cutting wood to fuel the ovens,” says another farmer, Lovemore Sakala.
To limit this impact, some producers are now using more energy-efficient dryers.
Nigeria: Cashew nut industry worried about proposed export ban
In Nigeria, cashew nut producers and traders are opposing the authorities' plan to ban the export of raw nuts. The bill, currently being considered by the National Assembly, is deemed "anti-social" by several stakeholders in the sector.
Farmers and exporters fear significant economic losses, as exports remain the main driver of profitability for the sector. Some are already reporting price increases and supply difficulties.
Experts are also warning of the potential consequences for more than five million farmers. Nigeria is currently the world's sixth-largest producer of cashew nuts.
