Rimini, November 5, 2026, The Europe Today: Morocco is strengthening its position as a key partner of Italy’s Ecomondo international trade fair, as both countries seek to expand cooperation in environmental protection, sustainable development and the circular economy.
Alessandra Astolfi, International Exhibitions Director and Head of the Green and Technology Division at Italian Exhibition Group (IEG), highlighted Morocco’s growing importance in the international strategy of Ecomondo, which brings together companies, institutions and experts working on ecological transition and sustainable economic development.
Speaking on the sidelines of the 29th edition of Ecomondo, being held in Rimini from November 3 to 6, Astolfi said that a recent roadshow organized in Casablanca had focused on water management, the water cycle and strengthening cooperation between Europe and Africa.
She noted that Morocco was of particular interest due to its substantial investments in addressing water stress and developing sustainable solutions for the management of water resources.
Several Moroccan professionals specializing in the circular economy and water management sectors are also participating in this year’s event. Astolfi said Morocco would receive special attention during the 30th edition of Ecomondo next year, with organizers seeking to establish an even stronger partnership with the Kingdom.
Morocco and Italy already have an established framework for environmental cooperation. In December 2022, the two countries signed a memorandum of understanding on the environment and sustainable development, covering climate change, biodiversity protection, integrated coastal management, water resources, renewable energy and energy transition.
The agreement also provides for joint projects, technology transfers, technical assistance and capacity-building initiatives.
Furthermore, Italy participated in June 2026 in the launch of a programme supporting Morocco’s National Water Policy under the European Union’s Team Europe initiative. The programme mobilized approximately MAD 3.7 billion (around $378.82 million) to promote sustainable water management and help Morocco address drought and climate-related challenges.
Astolfi also announced that Italian Exhibition Group had reached an agreement with Confindustria Assafrica & Mediterraneo, an Italian association maintaining links with African embassies, to strengthen engagement with African countries.
The cooperation will encompass several areas featured at Ecomondo, including energy, maritime activities, smart cities, wind power and energy transition.
Meanwhile, Fabio Fava, President of Ecomondo’s Scientific and Technical Committee, underscored the strategic importance of Africa and the Mediterranean region in the fair’s international agenda. He highlighted technological cooperation, climate challenges and the vital contribution of African youth to the global ecological transition.
Fava also emphasized the need to improve urban waste collection and recovery systems, promote smart irrigation and encourage the integrated utilization of organic waste to restore soil fertility.
He further stressed the importance of greater investment in education and academic exchanges between universities to strengthen expertise and support sustainable development.
The 29th edition of Ecomondo continues to serve as an international platform for promoting environmental innovation, advancing the circular economy and fostering partnerships aimed at accelerating the global transition towards a more sustainable future.
