The Maghreb integration remained in limbo due to Algeria’s support for separatism in Morocco. Algeria’s stance over the Sahara conflict left the Maghreb one of the least integrated regions in the world. Borders between Morocco and Algeria are maintained closed since 1994 despite repetitive calls by Morocco to move forward in bilateral ties. Algeria’s hegemonic schemes, its closed-border policy and support for separatism in the Sahara have been factors that hampered the achievement of the Maghreb Union. If the five Maghreb countries were integrated, each would gain a minimum 5% rise in GDP, the World Economic Forum said in a report published in late 2017.

Source: The North Africa Journal March 22, 2019 16:07 UTC