US-based Boeing has signed a deal to attract suppliers to boost Morocco’s aeronautics sector.

As part of the deal, the aerospace company will set up a ‘Boeing industrial ecosystem’ in the country, and plans to bring nearly 120 company suppliers to help create 8,200 jobs and generate $1bn in exports.

The aerospace ecosystem also aims to build factories and streamline Morocco's manufacturing platform.

Industry, trade, investment and the digital economy minister Moulay Hafid Elalamy said: "The Moroccan aeronautics industry has seen, thanks to the vision of King Mohammed VI, huge growth these last few years.

“The sector has multiplied by six in ten years and today boasts 121 companies.”

"The Moroccan aeronautics industry has seen, thanks to the vision of King Mohammed VI, huge growth these last few years."

In 2001, Boeing co-founded Morocco Aero-Technical Interconnect Systems (MATIS) Aerospace, which produces parts and engines for Boeing aircraft and employs 850 people in Casablanca.

Boeing has also been selected as preferred manufacturer by Moroccan national airline Royal Air Maroc.

Boeing vice-chairman Raymond Conner said: “Through our business in Casablanca, we have already seen with our own eyes the unique opportunities offered by Morocco to aeronautics subcontractors in terms of cost-effectiveness, all while producing quality products."

On 3 October, Boeing will host the third annual US-Morocco trade & investment forum in Seattle, US.

The conference offers a platform for both US business leaders and Moroccan officials to discover investment opportunities in Morocco.

Image: Morocco's King Mohammed VI (right) shakes hands with Boeing vice-chairman Raymond Conner. Photo: courtesy of the Moroccan American Center.