Fez — Yesterday, Morocco’s film industry stepped into the global spotlight as the country was officially the “Country in Focus” at the European Film Market (EFM), held within the 76th edition of the Berlin International Film Festival.
The launch ceremony, hosted at the iconic Gropius Bau, gathered leading international film professionals and showcased Morocco’s expanding cinematic ecosystem, which now covers the full value chain of film production.
Several prominent figures from the German and international film industry attended the launch event, including Berlinale Director Tricia Tuttle and EFM Director Tanja Meissner.
A strategic recognition for Moroccan cinema
Morocco’s participation as “Country in Focus” marks a significant international acknowledgment of the dynamism and maturity of its film industry.
Morocco’s Ambassador to Germany, Zohour Alaoui, described the distinction as recognition of a strategic vision led by King Mohammed VI, positioning our culture and creative industries as pillars of human development, economic growth, and the country’s global influence.
Alaoui emphasized that Moroccan cinema has evolved into a structuring component of the national cultural economy, adding that the sustained growth in domestic production and the increasing attractiveness to international filmmakers, making Morocco a major platform for foreign productions.
A destination of choice for global productions
For Alaoui, Morocco’s appeal lies in a combination of factors:
- Diverse natural landscapes
- Modern technical infrastructure
- Experienced local crews
- A stable regulatory framework
- Effective incentive mechanisms.
- Morocco’s strategic geographic position and cultural openness
On his end, Reda Benjelloun, director of the Centre Cinématographique Marocain (CCM), emphasized the growing interest of foreign productions in Morocco, pointing to the country’s stability, quality studios, varied natural settings, and what he described as “exceptional light,” alongside the expertise of Moroccan technical teams.
Benjelloun noted that the “Country in Focus” designation further strengthens Morocco’s international visibility and enhances its attractiveness for future shoots and co-productions.
A strong Moroccan delegation
Morocco’s delegation at the EFM includes ten producers presenting fiction, documentary, and series’ projects with international potential.
Six of the producers are women, reflecting the increasing role of female professionals in the Moroccan film sector.
The group brings together emerging talents and experienced producers familiar with international co-production frameworks.
A professional workshop, titled “Morocco Spotlight,” will allow German, European, and international partners to explore Morocco’s cinematic diversity and co-production opportunities.
From February 12-18, Morocco’s presence at the EFM will also highlight national co-production and financing mechanisms managed by the CCM, positioning the North African country as a preferred destination for international shoots.
Beyond the industry
Morocco’s presence extends beyond the industry platform. The 1979 film “The Mirage” by Moroccan filmmaker Ahmed Bouanani has been selected in the “Berlinale Classics” section, dedicated to restored heritage works.
The film will be screened in a newly restored version, marking its world premiere in this format.
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