| 05 Jan 2006 |
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US ambassador invites Moroccan businessmen to explore American market
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US ambassador to Morocco Thomas Riley has invited Moroccan businessmen to start participating in international exhibitions and building relations with American companies, for them to benefit from the opportunities offered by the US-Morocco Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
In an interview with the specialised Moroccan daily L'Economiste, the ambassador declared that the embassy has set up plans to help businessmen in this regard.
But when asked which Moroccan sectors would attract American investment, Riley noted that gaining contracts is not "automatic".
"Efforts should be made for example by participating in exhibitions and building relationships," the ambassador said.
"It is not a matter of sector but rather a matter of products when we talk about exportation to the United States," the diplomat added, noting that olive oil exports towards the US are already flourishing, and that there are promising opportunities for artisanal products and argan oil.
Riley also stressed that high-quality products will have better chances in the US market.
The diplomat declared that the US Agency for International Development (USAID) has set up a programme to help Small and Medium Enterprises export to the US.
He said that the programme offers a free consultation service. Through this service, some businesses have already started selling their products, such as artisanal boxes and jewellery.
Concerning agriculture, Riley underlined that the cost of wheat production in Morocco is still very high, hailing the efforts exerted by the regional offices for agricultural development (ORMVA) to support farmers.
Asked about phytosanitary barriers, the ambassador said that "the US consumers' health is a decisive issue."
"We have very strict regulations concerning the importation of food. This can also be seen as a means to protect the market," he explained.
Riley also stressed the economic gains Morocco will draw from the FTA, noting that the country's development rate can rise to 5 or 6%, instead of 3 to 4%.
The FTA Morocco signed with the United States on June 15, 2004 came into effect on January 1.
Riley took up his post as the US ambassador to Rabat on Jan. 12, 2004.
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