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Morocco World
5 days ago
- Business
- Morocco World
Only 18% of Moroccans Use Ride-Sharing Apps Despite High Satisfaction
Doha – Morocco is on the brink of a transport reckoning, as a fierce showdown between powerful taxi lobbies and rising ride-hailing giants threatens to upend the rules of urban mobility and redefine how the country moves. Recent data from a joint survey by the news outlet L'Économiste and the marketing agency Sunergia reveals that while only 18% of Moroccans have used ride-sharing apps, those who do overwhelmingly prefer them to traditional taxis. The survey shows that public transportation remains the primary mode of travel for 72% of Moroccans. Among these users, 50% rely on small taxis, 47% use grand taxis, and 40% take buses. Only 28% of Moroccans, predominantly men (38%), seniors over 65 (41%), rural residents (36%), and those in higher socioeconomic classes (49%), do not use public transportation. When it comes to service quality, tramways lead with a 96% satisfaction rate, followed by busways at 91%. Traditional small taxis earned an 81% positive rating, while grand taxis received 86%. Buses ranked lowest at 74%. Among the 18% of Moroccans who have adopted ride-sharing applications, the demographic skews toward women, people aged 18-34, urban residents, and those in higher socioeconomic categories. The remaining 82% cite various reasons for not using these services: 40% are unfamiliar with them, 26% see no need, 16% live in areas without coverage, and 15% already own vehicles. InDrive dominates the ride-sharing market with 96% of users choosing this platform, while Yango and Careem trail far behind at 4% and 2% respectively. Most users (69%) use these services infrequently, while just 7% report daily usage and 13% use them several times weekly. The survey reveals striking satisfaction levels among ride-sharing app users. A remarkable 97% rate the quality as good, with 86% describing it as 'very good.' Additionally, 95% of users report feeling safe when using these services. Perhaps most telling is that 76% of app users consider ride-sharing services superior to traditional taxis, with this sentiment especially strong among younger users and residents of northern and eastern regions. Battle for the streets: Morocco's transport showdown Despite consumer preference for ride-sharing services, traditional taxi operators continue to resist change. The taxi sector's professional organizations are demanding comprehensive legislative overhaul to address what they consider illegal competition from digital platforms. Industry representatives are pressing for immediate government intervention and a national dialogue to resolve the escalating tensions in the transportation market, particularly noting that ride-sharing operators avoid the tax burdens and licensing fees that traditional taxi drivers must bear. The taxi unions criticize the current regulatory framework as outdated, pointing to the 1963 dahir (royal decree) that governs the sector. This antiquated legislation predates the digital revolution and fails to address the fundamental technological and economic transformations that have reshaped urban mobility. Industry advocates propose the development of state-supervised digital platforms that would modernize their services while operating within Morocco's legal framework. Traditional taxis have come under increasing scrutiny for persistent service problems that frustrate passengers. Customers regularly encounter drivers who refuse short-distance trips, practice selective service that avoids certain neighborhoods, and arbitrarily increase fares during peak hours or inclement weather. Many riders report uncomfortable experiences with meters that mysteriously malfunction, vehicles in poor condition, and confrontational interactions when discussing routes or fares. Read also: After Rocky Exit, Uber Signals Return to Morocco Through Marrakech The absence of digital payment options and lack of transparent pricing further diminish the appeal of conventional taxis, especially among younger Moroccans who value convenience and clarity. The government appears to recognize the need for change. Interior Minister Abdelouafi Laftit announced on Monday that studies are underway to modernize the transport sector. Speaking before the House of Representatives, Laftit acknowledged that 'the current taxi system is no longer sustainable and must be developed to meet the challenges.' He pledged a technology-driven approach to reform, aiming to create a system that meets citizens' needs without harming those employed in the sector. The minister had previously taken a firm stance on maintaining order, warning that any unauthorized attempts to interfere with ride-sharing drivers would face strict legal consequences, following numerous documented confrontations between taxi drivers and app-based service providers. The transportation reform has taken on heightened urgency as Morocco prepares to welcome global visitors for major international sporting events, including the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2030 FIFA World Cup. These prestigious tournaments will bring millions of international travelers expecting efficient, reliable transportation services, placing additional pressure on policymakers to resolve the sector's deep-rooted inefficiencies and modernize Morocco's urban mobility ecosystem. Tags: Moroccan TaxisMoroccan Transportationride-share app
Ya Biladi
24-04-2025
- General
- Ya Biladi
Darija dominates, French leads professionally, and English attracts young Moroccans in 2024
Estimated read time: 2' A recent survey conducted by the Moroccan research firm Sunergia offers a comprehensive look at the linguistic landscape of Morocco in 2024. The findings highlight the dominance of Darija, the widespread use of French, the institutional role of Classical Arabic, and the growing presence of English among youngsters, all shaped by social, economic, and technological dynamics. Published in April 2024, the survey is based on responses from 1,019 participants, collected between September 2023 and early 2024. It primarily focuses on language proficiency and the contexts in which different languages are spoken. In 2024, Darija remains predominant in Morocco, spoken fluently by 100% of respondents and considered the mother tongue by 94%. It is the most commonly used in both personal (94%) and professional (69%) speech, as well as in writing for personal (69%) and professional (39%) exchanges. Classical Arabic is spoken fluently by 29% of Moroccans, with a higher presence among younger individuals (34%), urban dwellers (37%), and higher social classes (44%). Despite its limited use in personal communication (2% in speech and 9% in writing) and professional settings (8% in speech, 10% in writing), Classical Arabic retains a crucial role in education, administration, and the media. Amazigh is spoken fluently by 25% of the respondents, with 21% considering it their mother tongue, especially in the south (39%). It is more commonly used in personal conversations (19%) than in written (8%) or professional contexts (less than 8%). French continues to dominate professional settings Though not an official language, French remains widely spoken, with 19% of Moroccans fluent in it. Usage varies by age and social class, peaking among those under 34 (24%) and those aged 55-64 (18%). The language is mostly prevalent in professional communication, especially in writing (32%) and speech (31%), often surpassing Darija in written exchanges. Usage is also significantly higher among wealthier social classes (43%) compared to lower social classes (6%). English is spoken fluently by 9% of Moroccans, with significant concentrations among younger people (17%), urban residents (12%), and higher social classes (22%). While its use in personal exchanges remains limited (3% in speech, 4% in writing), English is increasingly present in professional settings (7% in both speech and writing). Spanish and German remain marginal, each spoken fluently by only 1% of the population. Their use is negligible in both personal and professional contexts. Strong multilingual trend The survey reveals a strong multilingual trend among Moroccans. Forty-five percent are monolingual, speaking only Darija. Thirty-four percent are bilingual, with the most common combinations being Darija + Amazigh (48%), Darija + Classical Arabic (37%), and Darija + French (12%). The Darija + Amazigh profile is more common among those aged 35-54, rural residents, southerners, and lower social classes. The Darija + Classical Arabic profile is typical of those over 65, urban dwellers, and wealthier individuals. The Darija + French combination dominates among those aged 55-64, people from central Morocco, urban residents, and higher social classes. Fourteen percent are trilingual, with the most common combinations being Darija + Classical Arabic + French (42%), Darija + Amazigh + Classical Arabic (27%), and Darija + French + English (21%). The Darija/Classical Arabic/French profile is most common among those over 55, urban residents, and wealthier social classes. The Darija/French/English trio is prevalent among young people aged 18-24. Finally, 7% of Moroccans are polyglots, speaking four or more languages. This phenomenon is more frequent among young people aged 25-34 (11%), urban dwellers (9%), and higher social classes (20%).
Morocco World
24-04-2025
- Business
- Morocco World
From Darija to English, Morocco's Language Map Evolves in 2025
Rabat – A recent survey by the Moroccan research firm Sunergia sheds light on how languages influence daily life across the country in 2025. While Darija remains central to communication for all Moroccans, the study shows shifting patterns that vary by age, region, and social class. These evolving habits reflect broader changes in education, media consumption, and identity. Darija, the common ground In a country marked by linguistic diversity, Darija remains everyone's language. The study confirms that all Moroccans speak it fluently, with 94% identifying it as their mother tongue. Although Darija holds no official status, its presence stretches across every aspect of life, from casual conversation to advertising and social media. Sunergia notes that its flexibility keeps it relevant, especially among younger generations who navigate online spaces and face-to-face interactions with ease. Classical Arabic tied to education Classical Arabic finds its strongest foothold in schools and formal settings. About 29% of Moroccans say they speak it fluently, with usage more widespread among the under-34 population. This age gap reflects Morocco's rising literacy rates over the decades. Urban residents and people in higher socio-economic groups are also more likely to use the language. Classical Arabic serves a purpose in cities and among professionals, but it rarely finds a place in casual, everyday conversations. Amazigh holds its ground Amazigh remains deeply rooted in Morocco's linguistic landscape. One in four Moroccans speaks it, and for most, it comes from home. While 21% consider it their first language, the concentration of Amazigh speakers in southern Morocco stands out. The study points to stability rather than growth, suggesting that Amazigh has retained its presence across generations, particularly in rural areas. French keeps a firm grip with clear social divides French continues to play a key role, especially in administration, education, and business. Nearly one in five Moroccans speaks it fluently, but usage differs sharply by age and class. Younger Moroccans, especially those under 35, are more likely to speak French than those aged 35–54. The older group lived through Morocco's Arabization policies in the 1980s, which reduced exposure to French in public education. At the top of the social ladder, 43% of individuals in wealthier categories speak the language, compared to just 6% in lower-income groups. French remains a marker of privilege and professional access. English gains ground among youth Although only 9% of Moroccans report fluency in English, the language has found traction among younger people, urban residents, and well-educated professionals. Among those under 34, the figure rises to 17%. Sunergia points to several reasons behind this trend: the growing role of English in education, its dominance in global entertainment, and its value in the job market. In Morocco's largest cities, English is no longer limited to elite circles. It now signals ambition and global connection. Spanish and German barely register Spanish and German hold little influence in Morocco today. Only 1% of respondents say they speak either language fluently. Though Spanish remains present in parts of northern Morocco and the Sahara due to historical ties, it no longer plays a central role in linguistic life. Spectrum of multilingualism The survey notes Morocco's wide spectrum of language use. Nearly half of the population, 45%, uses only one language: Darija. Yet multilingualism remains common. About 34% of Moroccans speak two languages. Among them: -Darija and Amazigh form the most common pair, especially in rural areas, southern regions, and among middle-aged adults. – Darija and Classical Arabic are more typical among senior citizens and urban dwellers. – Darija and French appear most often among older adults, particularly those living in central Morocco or within the upper socio-economic brackets. Roughly 14% of Moroccans speak three languages. One of the most common trilingual combinations includes Darija, Classical Arabic, and French, often found among older adults in cities. Meanwhile, younger Moroccans, especially those aged 18 to 24, increasingly combine Darija, French, and English, a mix that speaks to modern education and international media exposure. The study also points to a small but growing group of polyglots. Among Moroccans aged 25 to 34, 11% speak four or more languages. This trend is more visible in urban settings and among upper-class individuals and suggests that access to education and international networks continues to shape Morocco's linguistic future. Tags: AmazighArabicDarijaEnglishMorocco languagesmultiligualism Morocco
Morocco World
25-02-2025
- Business
- Morocco World
Sardine Prices Controversy Raises Questions over Market Oversight
Rabat – Morocco's social media is having a heated controversy over fish prices in Morocco's markets. The story started when Abdolilah, also known as Abdo, from Marrakech started his initiative to sell sardines at MAD 5 ($0.50) per kilo in his city's local market. He appeared in a video saying that his decision goes against the current trend of high fish prices caused by 'middlemen who are greedy about money.' Abdo expressed hope that other fish sellers would follow his lead to curb this greedy behavior. The young man's move comes in stark contrast to what has become a habit in Moroccan markets where the usual MAD 25 ($2.5) or more is charged for a kilo of sardines in coastal cities like Rabat, Casablanca, and Agadir. Moving against the trend of maximizing profits from selling fish, Abdo said 'I sell at the price I want, I make a small profit and that's enough,' transforming him into a symbol of resistance against big market powers. Abdo's approach involves purchasing fish directly from ports and maintaining a slim profit margin of just two dirhams per kilogram. Despite the modest markup, the volume he sells provides sufficient income to sustain his business. His business model bypasses the middlemen known locally as 'Chnaqa,' who significantly mark up prices without justification. In response to Abdo, a fisherman working at fish ports in Agadir shared his insights on the controversy over fish prices. He said that the original wholesale prices of sardines, for example, range between MAD 2.5-3 ($0.25-0.30), questioning why vendors sell it to citizens at MAD 15 and calling on the ministry to intervene and monitor prices. On the other side, several fish vendors raised questions on how they can sell fish at MAD 4-5, knowing that transportation and storage costs must be factored in. Read also: Morocco's Competition Council Investigates Potential Violation of Sardine Market Competition Standards Yet most customers appear to contest this explanation, saying that coastal cities should logically offer lower prices, given the absence of transportation costs. This controversy emerges against a backdrop of fish consumption patterns revealed in a recent market research survey by Sunergia. The study found that 38% of Moroccans consume fish once weekly, while 19% eat fish only twice monthly. About 30% consume fish several times a week, but 4% never eat fish at all—a percentage that could rise due to high prices. Abdo's rallying cry, 'I am with the poor,' has resonated deeply across social media platforms. His initiative has evolved into a movement calling for a structural reconsideration of pricing mechanisms, market oversight, price controls, and a stronger stance against monopolistic practices and price speculation. As this debate continues to unfold across Moroccan social media, Abdo's simple fish stand has become a powerful symbol in the ongoing conversation about food affordability and market fairness in Morocco, especially ahead of the holy month of Ramadan. Tags: Fish MoroccoFish prices in MoroccoSardine prices in Morocco
Morocco World
21-02-2025
- Business
- Morocco World
38% of Moroccans Consume Fish Once Per Week
Doha – A new joint survey by the news outlet L'Economiste and the marketing firm Sunergia reveals that 38% of Moroccans consume fish once per week, while 30% report eating fish multiple times weekly. The study, published today, shows that 19% of respondents consume fish twice monthly, 4% eat fish less than once per month, and another 4% don't consume fish at all. The survey also unearths divided perceptions regarding fish availability in Morocco. While 34% of Moroccans believe fish is becoming more available compared to previous years, 35% report decreased availability. Women in particular note improved availability at 38%. Age-wise, 43% of those aged 55-64 and 39% of 18-24-year-olds report declining availability. Regional differences show that northern and eastern Morocco experience better availability at 42%. Why doesn't Morocco's fish reach Moroccan tables? In a parliamentary session on January 21, Agriculture Minister Ahmed Bouari faced strong criticism over fish prices and availability. The minister attributed declining fish populations to drought conditions, a claim that contrasts sharply with export data. Official statistics show Morocco's fishing sector recorded exports worth MAD 31 billion ($3.1 billion) in 2023, with a harvest of 847,000 tons. The sector invested MAD 930 million in operations and maintains over 126,000 direct jobs. European trade figures further challenge the minister's drought explanation. Morocco dominates EU sardine imports among non-EU countries, commanding 93% of imports. Fish exports to the EU reached €1.61 billion in 2022. Spanish imports alone surged 40% since 2018, increasing from 91.6 million kilograms to 130.3 million kilograms. Meanwhile, domestic consumers face steep prices, with sardines – traditionally considered 'the poor man's fish' – now costing up to MAD 20 ($2) per kilogram in local markets. This comes despite Morocco's advantageous geography with two seas and 3,500 kilometers of coastline. The price disparity between wholesale and retail markets is astronomical, with sardines sometimes selling for MAD 3 per kilogram at wholesale but reaching MAD 20 in retail markets. Market intermediaries, known locally as 'Chnnaqa,' control fish distribution and add unjustified costs at each distribution stage, significantly inflating prices without effective oversight. These middlemen often purchase large quantities from wholesale markets, creating artificial supply shortages and price increases. One parliament member strongly criticized the minister during the session, fuming: 'You've buried the poorest Moroccans with these prices. Have some respect for their intelligence. Shame on you!' This came as red meat prices exceeded MAD 120 ($12) per kilogram, while poultry ranged from MAD 25 to 30 ($2.50 to $3). Read also: Morocco Honored with Fisheries Leadership at Mediterranean Commission Tags: Consumer SurveyFish Market & Consumptionfood prices
