Study forecasts 5.6% growth in industrial investments in 1st half of 2001

Industrial investments will reach a 5.6% growth in the first half of 2001, after the quasi stagnation in 2000, says a study of the industry, trade, energy and mining ministry.

The positive evolution will concern all sectors, especially chemical and para-chemical industries, mechanical, metallurgic and agri-food sectors, says the study based on finding of a survey on industrial investments. However the electric, electronic, textile and leather industries will witness a slower growth.

The study also notes that private investments and loans posted up to end of May 2001 a record 26.8 billion DH (US$ 2.43 billion), ascribed mainly to the privatization of 35% of the capital of Morocco's phone operator "Maroc Telecom." They will reach 3 billion DH (US$ 272.7 billion) by end 2001.