Diplomatic relations
A Long-Standing Friendship Between Japan and Morocco
Japan first opened a consulate in Casablanca in 1938. Following Morocco’s independence in 1956, diplomatic relations were officially established. The Embassy of Japan was inaugurated in Rabat in 1961, and in 1965, the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco opened its doors in Tokyo.
Economic ties between the two nations began even before Morocco’s independence, thanks to the foresight of pioneering Japanese entrepreneurs. Since then, Morocco and Japan have maintained a warm and enduring partnership. While trade was initially limited in volume and scope, it has steadily expanded over the years with the support of both governments.
Trade relations, once centered mainly on marine products, have now diversified across multiple sectors. Today, cooperation between the two countries extends into the fields of economy, commerce, science, technology, culture, and education.
Through its Official Development Assistance (ODA) program, Japan has actively supported Morocco’s development, contributing to key sectors such as rural irrigation, electrification, welfare services, and vocational training. This support, along with growing mutual investments, continues to strengthen the ties between the two countries.
April 23, 2022
Agreement between Japan and the Kingdom of Morocco for
– the elimination of double taxation with respect to taxes on income and the prevention of tax evasion and avoidance
– the Promotion and Protection of Investment
Moroccan Ambassador to Japan, Rachad Bouhlal, hosted a reception in Tokyo to celebrate two key bilateral agreements with Japan: the Elimination of Double Taxation and the Promotion and Protection of Investments. High-level Japanese officials attended, emphasizing the strong ties between the two nations. Bouhlal praised State Minister Suzuki Keisuke for his role in ratifying the agreements, effective since April 2022. He highlighted Japan as the largest foreign private employer in Morocco, creating over 50,000 jobs, especially in the automotive sector. He also encouraged Japanese investment in renewable energy, agriculture, and fertilizers. AMDIE now offers its website in Japanese to assist investors. Japanese officials commended Morocco’s economic zones, stability, and strategic location. JETRO’s Rabat office, opened in 2014, supports trade and investment efforts. The partnership, dating back to 1956, continues to grow across various sectors.
October 22, 2019
His Royal Highness Prince Moulay Rachid attended the enthronement ceremony of Emperor Naruhito of Japan
On October 22, 2019, Prince Moulay Rachid represented Morocco at the enthronement ceremony of Emperor Naruhito in Tokyo.
The ceremony took place at the Imperial Palace, gathering over 2,000 guests, including heads of state, royalty, and dignitaries from nearly 200 countries.
Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako wore traditional Heian-era court attire for the solemn occasion.
The new emperor formally proclaimed his accession to the Chrysanthemum Throne in an ancient ritual, witnessed by Japan’s Prime Minister and official guests.
After the declaration, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe delivered a congratulatory speech, followed by the traditional “Banzai” cheer for the imperial couple.
An imperial banquet was held in the evening, offering refined Japanese cuisine to distinguished foreign guests.
The imperial parade, originally scheduled for the same day, was postponed to November 10 out of respect for recent typhoon victims.
This event marked the first enthronement of a Japanese emperor in 30 years, following Emperor Akihito’s abdication.
Prince Moulay Rachid’s presence symbolized the friendship and respect between Morocco and Japan at this historic ceremony.
The attendance of high-level foreign representatives highlighted the diplomatic significance of the event for Japan on the world stage.
2002
Agreement on Information Technology
2001
Agreement with JETRO (Japan External Trade Organization)
In 2001, Morocco and JETRO signed a partnership agreement to strengthen economic and trade cooperation.
The agreement aims to promote bilateral trade and facilitate Japanese investment in Morocco.
It provides for the exchange of economic and commercial information between both parties.
Economic missions and business forums are organized to connect Moroccan and Japanese companies.
The agreement encourages the creation of joint ventures and the establishment of Japanese companies in Morocco.
It also supports training and the transfer of know-how in industrial and technological sectors.
JETRO assists Japanese investors with administrative procedures in Morocco.
This partnership has helped position Morocco as a gateway to Africa for Japanese businesses.
Since 2001, it has contributed to steady growth in bilateral investment and trade.
The agreement remains a cornerstone of economic relations between Morocco and Japan.
september 1985
Morocco–Japan Fisheries Agreement
In 1985, Morocco and Japan signed a bilateral fisheries agreement allowing Japanese vessels to fish for tuna and bonito in Moroccan waters.
The agreement regulates Japanese access to Morocco’s Exclusive Economic Zone, requiring compliance with Moroccan laws.
It aims to promote sustainable management of marine resources and strengthen cooperation between both countries.
Japan provides technical and scientific assistance to Morocco’s fisheries sector under the agreement.
Annual consultations are held to review the agreement’s implementation and set fishing quotas.
Cooperation includes training, research, and aquaculture development.
The treaty has helped modernize Morocco’s fishing infrastructure and boost economic exchanges.
It also supports Morocco’s strategic use of its marine resources and international fisheries policy.
Over time, the partnership has expanded to new areas like aquaculture and fishing village construction.
The agreement remains a cornerstone of Morocco–Japan relations in the fisheries sector.
April 26, 1961
Treaty on Trade and Commerce
The 1961 Treaty on Trade and Commerce between Japan and Morocco established the legal framework for economic and commercial relations between the two countries. The treaty aimed to promote mutual trade, ensure fair treatment for each country’s nationals and companies, and eliminate discriminatory practices. It provided for most-favored-nation (MFN) status, meaning that each country would grant the other the same trade advantages as any third country. The agreement covered customs duties, import and export regulations, and the protection of intellectual property. It also addressed the right to establish businesses and transfer capital. Mechanisms for resolving commercial disputes were included. The treaty sought to foster friendly relations and economic cooperation, laying the groundwork for future agreements. It entered into force after ratification by both governments.
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