Moroccan-Chinese trade ties weak but increasing

Moroccan-Chinese trade exchanges are still weak, totaling 3.21 billion Dirhams, nearly US$ 279.13 million in 2000.

Though still weak, these exchanges witnessed a steady increase over the past years, going up from 1.26 billion Dirhams, nearly US$109.56 million in 1994 to 2.9 billion DH, nearly US$ 252.17 million, in 1998 and 3.22 billion DH, nearly US$ 280 million in 2000.

Trade posts a deficit to Morocco's expense. The deficit worsened over the past five years going up from 1.1 billion DH, nearly US$ 9.56 million in 1996 to 2.47 billion DH, nearly US$ 214.78 million in 2000.

China is Morocco's 10 supplier, exporting house appliances, fabric and cotton and synthetic fibers to Morocco.

Morocco's exports to China are made up mainly of natural and chemical fertilizers, leather and fish products.