The Moroccan government has signed a memorandum of understanding with Embraer to launch joint projects in the Moroccan aeronautics industry, covering the fields of commercial aviation, defense and urban air mobility. The memorandum of understanding also underscores the mutual desire to strengthen and expand cooperation and investment between the Federal Republic of Brazil and the Kingdom of Morocco, with a view to reinforcing Atlantic cooperation between two references from the Global South.

The agreement between the Moroccan government and Embraer, was signed by the Minister of Industry and Trade, Mr. Ryad Mezzour, the Minister Delegate to the Head of Government, in charge of Investment, Convergence and Evaluation of Public Policies, Mr. Karim Zidane, the Director General of the Moroccan Agency for the Development of Investments and Exports, Mr. Ali Seddiki, and the President and CEO of Embraer Commercial Aviation, Mr. Arjan Meijer.

The parties have identified business opportunities with excellent potential to bring short- and long-term mutual benefits for Embraer and Morocco. The agreement covers opportunities in commercial aviation, defense and urban air mobility, providing a framework for building an integrated sourcing ecosystem in Morocco, fostering innovation and economic growth, and contributing to job creation and local skills development of local skills .

This cooperation project will also take into account a wide range of areas to be developed in progressive stages, including training and MRO (Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul). Other areas will be explored for potential collaboration, including Research and Technology, particularly in decarbonization, clean mobility, sustainable aviation and sustainable aviation fuel.

The estimated potential economic impact of all projects, once completed, including maintenance, repair and overhaul, training, ecosystem development and other areas, will reach US$300 million with the creation of 300 jobs by 2030, and up to US$1 billion and the creation of 1,000 jobs by 2035.

“Today, we are signing a historic partnership agreement with Embraer at this prestigious event - Marrakech Airshow,” said Mr. Ryad Mezzour, Minister of Industry and Commerce. “This collaboration not only underlines the strength of our Moroccan ecosystem, but also positions us as a key player in the global aerospace industry. It marks a decisive moment in the evolution of our aerospace industry, reinforcing our commitment to excellence and attracting strategic investment from global industry leaders. This agreement will catalyze a deeper synergy between Morocco and major industry leader Embraer, accelerating our shared ambitions and unleashing the potential for revolutionary achievements in aeronautics.”

“This is a unique opportunity for Embraer to develop a long-term relationship with Morocco's strong and dynamic aerospace industry,” said Arjan Meijer, President and CEO of Embraer Commercial Aviation. “It is particularly pleasing to see that our new partners in Rabat place the same importance on skills and training as we do at Embraer. Education, skills and the development of young people are the foundation of any strong industry, and a shared value for all parties. We look forward to making a difference together, growing the industry and maximizing the benefits for all.”

“Morocco is destined to be a major partner for Embraer Defense and Security, and we are committed to working closely with the Moroccan Royal Air Forces to position the C-390 as the benchmark choice for their future tactical airlift capabilities. Our support would include full training, maintenance and logistics for their fleet,” said Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense and Security. “With a growing number of countries choosing the C-390 for its outstanding performance and high availability, today is an ideal time for the Moroccan Royal Air Force to consider joining this strong community.”