Morocco leads North Africa in economic freedom

Morocco has been ranked the most economically free country in North Africa, according to the 2025 Index of Economic Freedom, published by the Heritage Foundation. The country placed 86th globally, with a score of 60.3, and ranked seventh among 14 Middle East and North African (MENA) economies, ahead of Kuwait but behind Saudi Arabia. 

Morocco’s score improved by 3.5 points from last year, placing it in the “moderately free” category. The report highlighted strengths in business freedom (68.9) and monetary freedom (74.7), though labor market rigidity remains a challenge. Trade, investment, and financial freedom all scored 75, reflecting the country’s growing competitiveness. 

Despite progress, the report noted obstacles such as high licensing costs and an informal labor sector. Morocco’s reforms have enhanced private-sector dynamism, but further institutional changes will be needed to sustain economic growth.