A robust structural transformation is critical to shape a country's ability to generate a faster and more inclusive growth that is required to tackle social challenges, such as unemployment and poverty.
Structural transformation driven by export is highly relevant for Egypt, Morocco and Tunisia, countries where several trade strategies and export promotion policies have been undertaken but are yet to take full advantage of their export-led growth strategies. This study considers how increasing productivity and moving up the value chain could enhance economic development in North Africa.
Particular attention is paid to how development of exported growth strategies requires a host of improvements to the institutions and services that support trade. Egypt, Morocco and Tunisia have to create an environment where a greater diversity of productive activities can thrive, in particular, activities that are more complex than the current export basket.
The study has been prepared with in-depth dialogues with the Governments of Egypt, Morocco and Tunisia, through in-country missions and consultation seminars. This effort made the study more relevant to the situation in the countries and ensures the policy recommendations are concrete.
