Meet one of Morocco’s richest with $652.75 million worth of shares

Tazi family, one of Morocco’s most influential business dynasties, through its joint controlling stake in pharmaceutical giant Societe de Therapeutique Marocaine SA (Sothema), has amassed a stake worth MAD6.03 billion ($652.75 million) in Sothema, cementing its position among the wealthiest shareholders on the Casablanca Stock Exchange.

Family ownership secures long-term control

The Tazi family’s combined 46.55% stake, equivalent to more than 3.35 million shares, ensures tight control over Sothema’s strategic direction. Holdings are distributed among Mohamed Tazi, the largest shareholder, within the family circle, Najia Tazi, Lamia Tazi, who is currently the CEO and chairperson, Salma Tazi, Badiaa Tazi, and Ali Tazi.

Collectively, the family controls a 46.55% stake, equivalent to more than 3.35 million shares, in the pharmaceutical group founded by Omar Tazi, their father. The holdings are distributed among second-generation heirs, including the CEO and chairperson, Lamia Tazi, holding 8.19%, Mohamed Tazi (17.59%), Najia Tazi (9.81%), Salma Tazi (6.94%), Badiaa Tazi (4%), and Ali Tazi (0.02%). This fragmented but aligned ownership structure reflects a classic family-capitalism model, preserving influence while protecting the company from external takeover risks.

Sothema builds regional pharmaceutical strength

Founded in 1976 and listed in 2005, Sothema has grown into one of Morocco’s leading pharmaceutical manufacturers, producing about 60 million units annually. The company partners with more than 35 multinational laboratories and exports to Europe, the Maghreb, Sub-Saharan Africa, and the Gulf.

Under Lamia Tazi’s leadership, Sothema continues to expand its footprint, playing a key role in Morocco’s push for healthcare self-sufficiency and reduced import dependence.

Diversification signals next phase of growth

Beyond pharmaceuticals, the Tazi family is expanding its investment strategy. A notable MAD100 million ($10 million) investment in Dislog Group highlights a shift toward diversification and a broader multi-sector portfolio approach.

This transition reflects a long-term strategy to reduce reliance on pharmaceutical earnings cycles while preserving wealth across generations.

Strategic role in Morocco’s economy

With its dominant stake in Sothema, the Tazi family remains central to Morocco’s healthcare ecosystem, supporting local drug manufacturing and strengthening national supply chains.

As Sothema’s valuation rises, the family’s influence, anchored in equity control and disciplined capital allocation, continues to shape Morocco’s pharmaceutical landscape.