Morocco leads Africa in supporting open trade, Afrobarometer report finds

Morocco stands out as a leading supporter of open trade policies among African nations, according to the third edition of the "Afrobarometer 2026" report. Titled "Beyond Borders: Citizens' Views on a Changing Global Order," the study surveyed 38 African countries between 2024 and 2025.

In Morocco, 65% of citizens expressed support for facilitating international trade, contrasting with 25% who preferred protecting local producers by limiting foreign imports. The report positions Morocco at the forefront of North African countries endorsing free trade, with a high percentage of citizens favoring expanded global trade relationships over purely regional or continental ones.

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Morocco is one of the African countries most supportive of trade liberalization policies; 65 percent of Moroccans expressed their support for facilitating trade with foreign countries, compared to 25 percent who preferred protecting local producers by limiting foreign imports.

However, the report also identified a notable lack of awareness about the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) among Moroccans, with only 11% having heard of the agreement. This indicates a disconnect between major economic initiatives and public knowledge.

Across the continent, approximately two-thirds of Africans (66%) back broader global trade ties, and 62% view free trade as a driver of economic growth and job creation. Yet, only 13% have prior knowledge of the AfCFTA.

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Two-thirds of Africans almost (66 percent) support expanding trade relations with the world, while 62 percent support the principle of free trade as a lever for economic growth and job creation, although only 13 percent have prior knowledge of the Continental Free Trade Area agreement.

On migration, the report noted a significant increase in Africans considering leaving their countries, with 45% admitting to thinking about emigration primarily due to job opportunities and better living conditions. While three-quarters of respondents are open to accepting migrants as neighbors, a clear majority expressed reservations about receiving more job seekers and refugees.

Regarding global power dynamics, China leads in African perceptions of foreign influence, with 62% viewing its economic and political presence positively. The United States' image has declined, and most Africans prefer neutrality in the Russia-Ukraine war.

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45 percent of them acknowledged that they have thought about emigration, driven mainly by the search for job opportunities and improved living conditions.

Concerning climate change, Africans are increasingly convinced that major industrialized nations must accept their historical responsibility for the crisis. The continent, which contributes less than 3% of global greenhouse gas emissions, is disproportionately affected by its consequences.

The report concludes that Africa is gradually embracing a more open global outlook, with its citizens emphasizing the need for greater African representation in international decision-making bodies and increased national autonomy in forging economic and political partnerships.

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China leads the list of foreign powers most present in the African imagination, as 62 percent of respondents view its economic and political influence positively.