Moroccan craftsmanship received particular attention at the international “Maison & Objet” exhibition, staged at the Parc des Expositions de Villepinte in Paris, Morocco’s News Agency (MAP) reported on Friday.
Inaugurated yesterday, by Fatim-Zahra Ammor, Minister of Tourism, Handicrafts, and Social and Solidarity Economy, the Moroccan pavilion boasts a prominent display in the heart of the fair, spanning 180 square meters, MAP said.
The pavilion displays the latest products from a selection of Moroccan artisans, including interior design products, pottery and ceramics, carpets, zellige, and home decor accessories.
“It is of great importance for Morocco to be present at this exhibition, which is one of the largest in the interior design and decor sector,” Minister Ammor stated during the inauguration ceremony, accompanied by Tarik Sadik, Director General of Morocco’s Maison de l’Artisan.
“It is an opportunity for us to provide artisans and businesses in the sector with a venue to showcase their creations,” Ammor said about Morocco’s participation in the international fair, noting that this is not the first time the kingdom has showcased its products at this event.
She also noted the growing demand for Moroccan handicrafts and commended Moroccan artisans for their efforts to meet this demand.
The minister also highlighted the value of the fair in facilitating connections with prominent buyers, to accelerate the growth of Moroccan artisan exports, which have exceeded one billion MAD over the past two years.
Ammor underlined the strategic importance of international fairs like “Maison & Objet,” stating that “France is a principal market for Moroccan craftsmanship, being the second-largest import of artisan products after the United States.”
Tarik Sadik conveyed satisfaction with the Moroccan presence at the event. He highlighted Morocco’s notable success, reflected in the high number of professional visitors, potential buyers, designers, and architects interested in the Moroccan stand.
“The stand features 100% handmade products from various Moroccan regions, including Marrakech, Fes, Essaouira, and Tangier,” he stated.
Sadik highlighted that this participation aligns with the kingdom’s strategy to promote Moroccan craftsmanship, which has exceeded one billion MAD in exports, exclusive of purchases by tourists visiting Morocco.
Held biannually, the fair serves as a significant gathering point for the design and decoration sector, uniting brands, creators, and artisans from across the globe. This year, more than 2,300 exhibitors from 147 countries are participating, spanning 120,000 square meters with dedicated sections for “Maison” and ” Objet,” which include luxury furniture, kitchen specialties, childcare items, and fashion accessories.
In addition to the in-person event, “Maison & Objet” offers a digital platform, known as MOM (Maison & Objet & More), featuring over 3,000 brands and serving professionals in the decoration, design, and lifestyle sectors.
The 2023 fair welcomed 67,429 visitors, including 47% of international attendees.