Number of tourists visiting Morocco increased by 19% in 1999

More than two million tourists have visited Morocco in 1999, recording a 19% increase compared to the previous year, said Moroccan Minister of Tourism Hassan Sebbar.

The Moroccan official told "Al Mounaataf" daily that the tourism sector is progressing positively after the stagnation witnessed between 1987 and 1993.

Investments in the sector are also on the rise, he said, recalling that several accords had been concluded with Moroccan and foreign investors and holdings such as Tikida, Ahlen, Accor, Britanic Hotels, Bouznika Bay, Sol Melia and others.

The projects to be completed under these accords -- worth some $500 million-- will create 11,000 beds and generate 8,000 jobs, Sebbar said. Some of the accords such as those with Accor and sole Melia will convert part of Morocco's debts into investments.

He added that his department is also seeking to encourage local tourism through cuts in hotel prices, promotion of transport, and fostering professionals' awareness of the importance of local tourism. Administrations and public and semi-public institutions also ought to organize trips for their staff to promote local tourism in the frame of partnership with local councils.

The tourism department is currently conducting a study on local tourism to determine which product is most adapted to Moroccan holiday makers, Sebbar said.