Morocco’s minister warns French law risks 50K call center jobs

RABAT, MOROCCO — Morocco’s call center sector could face significant disruption after a new French law restricting telemarketing and unsolicited calls threatens up to 50,000 jobs, said Morocco’s Employment Minister Younes Sekkouri.
According to a report from Hespress, Sekkouri stated in a written response to parliament that the legislation could affect around 80% of the sector’s business, particularly on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), potentially putting 40,000 to 50,000 jobs at risk among Morocco’s young workforce.
Economic impact on Morocco’s call center industry
Sekkouri highlighted that the Moroccan call center industry is a vital part of the economy, attracting MAD 1.3 billion (US$138 million) in investments in 2023 and contributing between MAD 10 billion (US$ 1.06 billion) and MAD 12 billion (US$1.27 billion) to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP).
The industry currently provides nearly 120,000 direct jobs, most held by young people and graduates, and about 50,000 indirect jobs in related services such as transport and logistics.
Morocco’s strategic shift to high-value outsourcing
The Moroccan government develops its multifaceted approach to deal with the existing threat. Sekkouri said the program motivates businesses to develop new markets throughout Europe, including Germany, Spain, and Italy, as well as in Africa and Latin America.
The plan also supports a transition from standard telemarketing work to more valuable services that include technical support, digital logistics, consulting, and market research services.
On workforce development, the government is investing in training and reskilling programs, focusing on digital skills, languages, and specialized areas, in partnership with the Office of Vocational Training and Professionalization (OFPPT) and educational institutions.
Financial and tax support measures include extended deadlines for tax and social payments, tax incentives for businesses that develop digital and export-oriented services, and enabling SMEs to obtain financing through the SME support fund.
Sekkouri also said that the organization worked to improve legal and institutional frameworks through its ongoing talks with unions and economic partners while developing AI and data-based innovative solutions.
The strategy aims to develop specialized call centers in sectors such as technology, health, and finance, which will help the industry maintain its global competitive edge.
Morocco shows its dedication to global business outsourcing through its efforts to adapt to global industry developments, which mirror the patterns of nations that expand their call center operations while implementing digital modernization efforts to protect their workforce and maintain business continuity.
Morocco plans to use high-value services and international expansion to restore its call center industry from the French law impact while establishing itself as a strong competitor in global outsourcing markets.

Independent




