Moroccan artistry took center stage at the recent International Contemporary Furniture Fair (ICFF) in New York City, solidifying the country’s position as a major exporter of handcrafted goods.

Moroccan Handicraft Takes Center Stage at New York Design Fair

Rabat – Moroccan artistry took center stage at the recent International Contemporary Furniture Fair (ICFF) in New York City, solidifying the country’s position as a major exporter of handcrafted goods.

This marked Morocco’s second participation in the prestigious design fair, highlighting the Moroccan government’s efforts to propel the North African nation’s vibrant artisanal sector onto the global stage.

This newfound emphasis on promoting Moroccan craftsmanship aligns with a strategic economic vision. The United States is already the leading importer of Moroccan products, accounting for a staggering 40% of the country’s total export volume by the end of April 2024.

Morocco’s participation in the ICFF serves a dual purpose: strengthening the kingdom’s presence in this key market while exploring new business opportunities with emerging ones.

At this year’s fair in New York, over 10,000 design professionals from around the world had the chance to witness the exquisite handiwork of six Moroccan companies within a dedicated 120-square-meter pavilion.

These companies specialize in a diverse range of products, including carpets, pottery, metalwork, lighting, and the famed zellige tilework, all falling under the umbrella brand of “Morocco Handmade.”

This focus on craftsmanship aligns with a booming domestic sector. Morocco’s artisanal sector achieved record-breaking revenues by the end of last November, reaching MAD 984 million (roughly $100 million USD), a significant 7% increase compared to the same period in 2022.

According to Fatim-Zahra Ammor, Moroccan Minister of Tourism, Handicrafts, and Social and Solidarity Economy, this success story is due to a multi-pronged approach.

“Through strategic commercial partnerships, effective promotional activities, and the collaborative efforts of both public and private stakeholders, we have seen the fruition of our endeavors,” Ammor said last December.

The artisanal sector is a cornerstone of the Moroccan economy, employing a staggering 2.4 million people, or 20% of the active workforce; it contributes a significant 7% to the country’s GDP.

The ICFF provided a valuable platform for Moroccan artisans to connect with key players in the design industry, including architects, interior designers, buyers, distributors, and developers.