An Element of Concern in North Africa : The Case of Morocco’s Phosphate Industry

This case explores the geopolitical and human rights issues involved in the phosphate industry in Morocco. With an increasing global demand for phosphate, and the growing concentration of the industry in favor of Morocco, concerns over who controls the disputed territory of Western Sahara and how much power Morocco has over global sourcing have arisen. Morocco is moving towards a near-monopoly position in phosphate production and much of that phosphate is being taken from a territory which many feel is not legitimately part of the country. While international pressure is on Morocco, its King is firmly in control of the country and has the support of a key ally, the United States. International trade in phosphate and its associated products may be affected by how this geopolitical struggle plays out