Morocco’s Central Bank Maintains Key Interest Rate
Morocco’s central bank, Bank Al Maghrib (BAM), has decided to maintain its key interest rate unchanged at 2.25%. This decision was made on Tuesday, citing inflation levels that are consistent with the country’s medium-term price stability goals, as well as accelerating non-agricultural growth.
Reasons Behind the Decision
The BAM board, which met in Rabat for its second quarterly session of 2025, made the decision after careful consideration of various economic indicators and future uncertainties. According to the central bank, the evolution of inflation at levels consistent with the medium-term price stability objective, the tangible acceleration of non-agricultural growth, and the stabilization of expectations all contributed to the decision to keep the key interest rate unchanged.
Economic Indicators and Uncertainties
The decision to maintain the interest rate is seen as a cautious approach amid significant uncertainties in the economic forecast in Morocco and other developing economies. Despite these uncertainties, the bank noted that inflation has remained within acceptable parameters aligned with their price stability targets, while the country’s non-agricultural sectors have shown notable growth momentum.
Impact on Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises
The central bank will continue to monitor the transmission effects of its recent interest rate cuts, particularly focusing on how these changes impact financing conditions for very small, small, and medium-sized enterprises. This sector has been a key focus for Moroccan policymakers seeking to stimulate broader economic growth.
Future Monetary Policy Decisions
BAM indicated that its future monetary policy decisions will be made on a meeting-by-meeting basis, with each determination based on the most current available economic data and market conditions. This approach suggests that officials are balancing the need to support economic expansion while maintaining price stability.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Morocco’s central bank has maintained its key interest rate unchanged at 2.25%, citing stable inflation and accelerating non-agricultural growth. The decision reflects a cautious approach amid significant uncertainties in the economic forecast, and the bank will continue to monitor economic indicators and adjust its monetary policy accordingly. This decision will be closely watched by investors and businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises that rely heavily on bank financing for their operations and expansion plans.