The Head of Government chairs the first National Crafts Council.
Rabat, July 16, 2024,
The Head of Government, Mr. Aziz Akhannouch, chaired on Tuesday, July 16, the first meeting of the National Crafts Council (CNA), established by law 50.17, which came into force in 2022 to govern and modernize the exercise of craft activities.
This first meeting of the CNA allowed to constitute the specific commission which will be responsible for preparing the new strategic roadmap for the development of crafts. This ambitious strategy will aim to meet the challenges of the sector including the conservation of heritage, the generalization of social coverage, the strengthening of the role of the Chambers of Crafts, the development of cooperatives, professional training, the supply of raw materials, marketing and the valorization of exports.
The National Council of Crafts thus marks a crucial step in the national strategy for the development of crafts. Its main mission is to develop and propose concrete measures aimed at boosting, modernizing and developing this sector. The ultimate goal is to improve the competitiveness of craftsmen and their socio-economic conditions, while preserving the rich craft heritage of the Kingdom.
During this meeting, Mr. Aziz Akhannouch stressed the strategic importance of crafts for the national economy, recalling the essential role of this sector which represents a major asset for tourism, in the Moroccan cultural identity. The head of government has, therefore, affirmed the firm commitment of the government to support and develop this sector, in line with the High Guidelines of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may God assist him.
During this first Council, the Minister of Tourism, Crafts, and Social and Solidarity Economy presented a detailed assessment of the flagship projects launched by the government since 2021 in the crafts sector. In particular, she highlighted the acceleration of the implementation of Law 50.17, with the publication of its implementing texts, as well as the successful launch of the National Crafts Register. The latter enabled the registration of more than 400,000 craftsmen, as well as the registration of 647,000 craftsmen with Compulsory Health Insurance, a major step forward for the sector.
The National Crafts Council aims to be a collaborative platform, bringing together all stakeholders in the sector: professional organizations, public institutions, ministerial departments, experts and representatives of craftsmen. This synergy will make it possible to identify avenues for progress, propose innovative solutions, develop the necessary legislative and regulatory measures, and coordinate actions for the harmonious and sustainable development of the sector.
The meeting was attended by the Minister of Economy and Finance; the Minister of Agriculture, Maritime Fisheries, Rural Development and Water and Forests; the Minister of Economic Inclusion, Small Business, Labor and Skills; the Minister of Industry and Trade; the Minister of Tourism, Crafts, Social and Solidarity Economy; the Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, the Minister of Transport and Logistics; the Minister of Youth, Culture and Communication; as well as many key players in the sector.
