King Mohammed VI used his Throne Day speech marking the 27th anniversary of his accession to the throne on Wednesday to say Morocco has entered a new phase of economic growth driven by industrial development, investment, and strategic sectors, presenting the country’s economic performance as the result of long-term planning. The king emphasized Morocco’s economy grew about 4.9% in 2025 and projected similar or stronger growth in 2026. “Today, the Kingdom has become Africa’s leading automobile exporter, with a production capacity approaching one million vehicles annually,” Mohammed VI said. The monarch added that exports from the automotive and aerospace industries now account for more than 40% of Morocco’s total exports, surpassing phosphate exports. He also announced plans to develop defense manufacturing and cybersecurity industries, saying they would strengthen national sovereignty while creating new economic opportunities.