The Impact of E-commerce on Morocco's Trade Balance (2015-2023): A Descriptive Analysis

This research examines the impact of e-commerce on Morocco's trade balance (2015-2023). The descriptive analysis, based on CMI data (online transactions) and World Bank data (imports, exports, trade balance), does not show a systematic deterioration of the trade balance directly linked to the rapid growth of e-commerce, itself accelerated by digitalization and the COVID-19 pandemic. Several factors, such as the structure of Moroccan exports, other macroeconomic variables, and a potential substitution effect, could explain this result. The theory of comparative advantage and the Heckscher-Ohlin model are used to interpret the trends. Although limited by its descriptive approach, the study suggests a complex impact of e-commerce, requiring further research with econometric methods and more detailed data. Avenues for future research are proposed. Key words: E-commerce, trade balance, imports, exports, COVID-19.