RABAT – Moroccan construction wages are surging as the sector faces a critical labor shortage, potentially slowing housing production by as much as 40%, according to the National Federation of Real Estate Promoters, as reported by Al AHDATH Al Maghribia.
The scarcity of skilled workers and apprentices is creating difficulties for developers in meeting financial obligations to banks and commitments to customers. This situation is compounded by rising building material costs and notable wage increases.
A qualified construction worker, known as a “maâlem,” now commands approximately 300 dirhams per day, while an apprentice earns around 200 dirhams daily.
The Federation anticipates the labor shortage will intensify in the coming years. Factors contributing to the problem include the draw of workers to large-scale public infrastructure projects, reduced migration from rural areas due to improved agricultural activity, and a general decline in interest among urban youth in construction trades. Demographic shifts are also playing a role.
A federation official described the situation as an “unprecedented problem” and is urging immediate government intervention. One proposed solution involves tapping into the African workforce already present in Morocco, offering training programs and temporary residency permits, along with social security benefits, to address the sector’s long-term labor needs.
