Key Insights
The Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market is poised for steady growth, projected to reach approximately $500 million in value by 2025, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 2.23% anticipated between 2025 and 2033. This expansion is primarily fueled by the robust demand from the food and beverage sectors, which represent the largest end-use industries. Increasing consumer spending power, a burgeoning population, and a growing emphasis on convenient and safe packaging solutions for a wide array of food products, from fresh produce and dairy to convenience meals, are key drivers. Furthermore, the expansion of the foodservice industry, particularly quick-service restaurants and retail establishments, is creating significant opportunities for rigid plastic packaging, including bottles, jars, trays, and containers. The healthcare sector also presents a growing demand for high-quality, sterile rigid plastic packaging solutions for pharmaceuticals and medical devices, further contributing to market buoyancy.
Key trends shaping the Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market include a growing preference for materials like Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) and Polyethylene (PE) due to their recyclability, durability, and cost-effectiveness. The market is also witnessing a shift towards more sustainable packaging options, with a rising interest in recycled content and innovative designs that minimize material usage. However, the market faces certain restraints, including fluctuating raw material prices, increasing environmental regulations concerning plastic waste, and the ongoing development of alternative packaging materials. Despite these challenges, the strategic importance of rigid plastic packaging in preserving product integrity, extending shelf life, and enhancing brand appeal across various consumer and industrial applications ensures its continued relevance and growth trajectory in Morocco. Key players such as Alpla Group and Plastipak Holdings Inc. are likely to leverage these trends through innovation and strategic partnerships.
This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of the Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market, exploring its dynamics, growth trajectory, and competitive environment. With a study period spanning from 2019 to 2033, and a base year of 2025, this report leverages extensive research to deliver actionable insights for stakeholders. We delve into the market's structure, growth trends, dominant segments, product landscape, key drivers, emerging opportunities, and the strategic moves of leading players. The report focuses on granular data, presenting all values in Million Units, and offers a detailed outlook for the Moroccan rigid plastic packaging industry.
Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market Market Dynamics & Structure
The Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market exhibits a moderately concentrated structure, with key players like Alpla Group, Plastipak Holdings Inc., and Grief Inc. holding significant sway. Technological innovation is primarily driven by advancements in material science and manufacturing processes, focusing on enhanced durability, lightweighting, and the integration of recycled content. Regulatory frameworks, particularly concerning environmental sustainability and waste management, are increasingly influencing market strategies. Competitive product substitutes, such as glass and metal packaging, present a moderate threat, though rigid plastics offer distinct advantages in cost and versatility. End-user demographics are shifting, with a growing middle class and an increasing demand for packaged consumer goods. Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) are becoming strategic tools for market consolidation and expansion. For instance, the acquisition of Reliance Products Inc. by Grief Inc. in October 2023 signifies a move to broaden geographic reach and product portfolios. The market is characterized by a strong emphasis on adopting sustainable solutions, with initiatives like Plastipak's collaboration with Kraft Heinz to utilize recycled PET (rPET) highlighting this trend. Barriers to innovation include capital investment requirements for advanced technologies and the need to comply with evolving environmental standards, yet the drive towards a circular economy presents significant growth opportunities.
Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market Growth Trends & Insights
The Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market is projected to experience robust growth driven by a confluence of factors. The market size is expected to witness a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of xx% from 2025 to 2033. This growth is underpinned by increasing consumer demand for convenience and packaged goods, particularly in the Food and Beverage end-use industries. The rising penetration of processed and ready-to-eat food products, coupled with a growing preference for single-serving and on-the-go beverage options, is significantly boosting the consumption of rigid plastic packaging. Technological disruptions, such as the development of thinner yet stronger materials and advanced barrier properties, are enhancing the functionality and appeal of rigid plastic packaging. Furthermore, shifts in consumer behavior, with a growing awareness of hygiene and product safety, are favoring sealed and tamper-evident packaging solutions, a forte of rigid plastics. The increasing adoption of sustainable packaging practices, including the use of recycled PET (rPET) and bioplastics, is also a key trend, aligning with global environmental mandates and consumer preferences. This evolution in material composition and product design ensures that rigid plastic packaging remains a competitive and desirable option. The market penetration of specialized rigid plastic packaging for niche applications within sectors like Healthcare and Cosmetics and Personal Care is also on an upward trajectory, reflecting the diverse needs of these sophisticated industries.
Dominant Regions, Countries, or Segments in Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market
The Food end-use industry stands as the dominant segment within the Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market, exhibiting the highest growth potential and consumption. This dominance is fueled by Morocco's expanding population, a growing middle class with increased purchasing power, and a thriving agricultural sector that requires robust and versatile packaging solutions. Within the Food segment, sub-sectors like Dairy Products, Dry Foods, and Frozen Foods are particularly significant, demanding packaging that ensures product integrity, extends shelf life, and maintains visual appeal. The increasing urbanization and the rise of modern retail formats further amplify the demand for convenient and hygienically packaged food items.
- Key Drivers for Food Segment Dominance:
- Population Growth and Urbanization: A rising and increasingly urbanized population drives demand for packaged food.
- Evolving Consumer Lifestyles: Busy lifestyles necessitate convenience and ready-to-consume food products.
- Food Safety and Shelf-Life Extension: Rigid plastics offer superior protection against spoilage and contamination.
- Growth of Modern Retail: Supermarkets and hypermarkets prefer standardized, appealing packaging.
- Economic Development: Increased disposable income allows for greater consumption of processed and packaged foods.
In terms of Product Type, Bottles and Jars are a leading category, catering to beverages, food products, and personal care items. The versatility and reusability of these items make them highly sought after. Trays and Containers are also crucial, especially for fresh produce, confectionery, and ready meals.
- Material Dominance: Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) is a frontrunner, particularly for beverage bottles and food containers, due to its clarity, strength, and recyclability. Polyethylene (PE), especially HDPE, remains vital for many industrial and household product containers.
Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market Product Landscape
The Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market is characterized by a dynamic product landscape driven by continuous innovation. Manufacturers are focusing on developing packaging solutions with enhanced performance metrics, including improved barrier properties to extend shelf life, greater impact resistance, and lightweight designs for cost efficiency and reduced environmental footprint. Applications span a wide array, from the secure containment of Beverages and delicate Food products to the robust packaging of industrial chemicals and automotive components. Unique selling propositions often revolve around sustainable material usage, such as the increasing incorporation of recycled PET (rPET), and the development of child-resistant or tamper-evident features. Technological advancements are also leading to more sophisticated printing and labeling capabilities, enhancing brand visibility and consumer engagement.
Key Drivers, Barriers & Challenges in Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market
Key Drivers:
- Growing Demand for Packaged Goods: An expanding population and urbanization fuel the need for convenient, safe, and appealing packaging solutions across various sectors like Food, Beverage, and Healthcare.
- Technological Advancements: Innovations in material science and manufacturing processes enable the creation of lighter, stronger, and more sustainable rigid plastic packaging.
- Evolving Consumer Preferences: Demand for convenience, hygiene, and product safety drives the adoption of rigid plastic packaging.
- Economic Growth and Industrial Development: A growing economy supports increased consumption of consumer goods and industrial products, necessitating robust packaging.
- Sustainability Initiatives: The push for recyclable and recycled content in packaging presents significant opportunities for material innovation and market growth.
Barriers & Challenges:
- Environmental Concerns and Regulations: Increasing scrutiny over plastic waste and evolving regulations around single-use plastics can pose challenges, requiring continuous adaptation and investment in sustainable alternatives.
- Volatile Raw Material Prices: Fluctuations in the cost of petrochemical-based raw materials can impact profitability and pricing strategies.
- Competition from Alternative Materials: While rigid plastics offer advantages, competition from glass, metal, and paper-based packaging persists in certain applications.
- Infrastructure for Recycling: The development and widespread availability of efficient recycling infrastructure are crucial for a circular economy approach to plastic packaging.
- Supply Chain Disruptions: Global and local supply chain issues can impact the availability and cost of raw materials and finished products.
Emerging Opportunities in Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market
Emerging opportunities in the Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market lie in the growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions. The increasing consumer and regulatory pressure for reduced virgin plastic usage is driving innovation in recycled PET (rPET) and the exploration of bioplastics. The Healthcare sector presents a significant opportunity with its stringent requirements for sterile, tamper-evident, and child-resistant packaging for pharmaceuticals and medical devices. Furthermore, the expansion of e-commerce necessitates robust yet lightweight packaging for safe transit, offering avenues for specialized rigid plastic containers. The development of intelligent packaging with integrated sensors for tracking and monitoring product integrity also represents a future growth area.
Growth Accelerators in the Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market Industry
Long-term growth in the Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market is being accelerated by several key catalysts. Technological breakthroughs in biodegradable and compostable rigid plastics, alongside advancements in advanced recycling technologies, are paving the way for a more circular economy and addressing environmental concerns. Strategic partnerships and collaborations between packaging manufacturers and end-users, such as the recent alliance between Plastipak and Kraft Heinz, are crucial for driving innovation and market adoption of sustainable materials like rPET. Market expansion strategies, including mergers and acquisitions that broaden product portfolios and geographic reach, as exemplified by Grief Inc.'s acquisition, are also vital. Investment in state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities and a focus on developing value-added packaging solutions tailored to specific industry needs are further fueling sustained growth.
Key Players Shaping the Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market Market
- Alpla Group
- Plastipak Holdings Inc
- Grief Inc
- Pet Preforms Morocco
- Bericap Holding GmbH
- Sumilon Eco PET SARL
- Blowtec Morocco
- Intel Plast
- Mikafric
Notable Milestones in Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market Sector
- May 2024: Plastipak Holding GmbH partnered with Kraft Heinz to produce KRAFT Real Mayo and MIRACLE WHIP containers exclusively from recycled PET (rPET) material, supporting Kraft Heinz's goal of a 20% reduction in virgin plastic use by 2030.
- October 2023: Grief Inc. acquired Reliance Products Inc., a Canadian manufacturer of plastic jars and containers, to expand its geographic reach and product offerings.
In-Depth Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market Market Outlook
- May 2024: Plastipak Holding GmbH partnered with Kraft Heinz to produce KRAFT Real Mayo and MIRACLE WHIP containers exclusively from recycled PET (rPET) material, supporting Kraft Heinz's goal of a 20% reduction in virgin plastic use by 2030.
- October 2023: Grief Inc. acquired Reliance Products Inc., a Canadian manufacturer of plastic jars and containers, to expand its geographic reach and product offerings.
In-Depth Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market Market Outlook
The Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market is poised for continued expansion, driven by a strong demand for sustainable and innovative packaging solutions. The increasing adoption of recycled content and the development of advanced recycling technologies will act as significant growth accelerators, aligning the industry with global environmental objectives. Strategic collaborations between key players, such as Plastipak and Kraft Heinz, will further propel the integration of rPET into mainstream packaging. The market's outlook is also shaped by the burgeoning Foodservice and Healthcare sectors, which require specialized, high-performance rigid plastic packaging. Continuous investment in R&D to create lighter, more durable, and eco-friendly packaging will solidify the market's competitive edge and ensure its sustained growth trajectory in the coming years.
Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market Segmentation
-
1. Product Type
- 1.1. Bottles and Jars
- 1.2. Trays and Containers
- 1.3. Caps and Closures
- 1.4. Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs)
- 1.5. Drums
- 1.6. Pallets
- 1.7. Other Product Types
-
2. Material
-
2.1. Polyethylene (PE)**
- 2.1.1. LDPE & LLDPE
- 2.1.2. HDPE
- 2.2. Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)
- 2.3. Polypropylene (PP)
- 2.4. Polystyrene (PS) and Expanded polystyrene (EPS
- 2.5. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
- 2.6. Other Rigid Plastic Packaging Materials
-
2.1. Polyethylene (PE)**
-
3. End-use Industries
-
3.1. Food**
- 3.1.1. Candy and Confectionery
- 3.1.2. Frozen Foods
- 3.1.3. Fresh Produce
- 3.1.4. Dairy Products
- 3.1.5. Dry Foods
- 3.1.6. Meat, Poultry, and Seafood
- 3.1.7. Pet Food
- 3.1.8. Other Food Products
-
3.2. Foodservice**
- 3.2.1. Quick Service Restaurants (QSRs)
- 3.2.2. Full-Service Restaurants (FSRs)
- 3.2.3. Coffee and Snack Outlets
- 3.2.4. Retail Establishments
- 3.2.5. Institutional
- 3.2.6. Hospitality
- 3.2.7. Other Foodservice End Uses
- 3.3. Beverage
- 3.4. Healthcare
- 3.5. Cosmetics and Personal Care
- 3.6. Industrial
- 3.7. Building and Construction
- 3.8. Automotive
- 3.9. Other En
-
3.1. Food**
Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. Morocco
Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
| Aspects | Details |
|---|---|
| Study Period | 2019-2033 |
| Base Year | 2024 |
| Estimated Year | 2025 |
| Forecast Period | 2025-2033 |
| Historical Period | 2019-2024 |
| Growth Rate | CAGR of 2.23% from 2019-2033 |
| Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- 3.2. Market Drivers
- 3.2.1. Growing Food Industry in Morocco; Availability of Customized Rigid Plastic Packaging Solutions
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. Growing Food Industry in Morocco; Availability of Customized Rigid Plastic Packaging Solutions
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) Segment is Estimated to Have the Largest Market Share
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
- 5. Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 5.1.1. Bottles and Jars
- 5.1.2. Trays and Containers
- 5.1.3. Caps and Closures
- 5.1.4. Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs)
- 5.1.5. Drums
- 5.1.6. Pallets
- 5.1.7. Other Product Types
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Material
- 5.2.1. Polyethylene (PE)**
- 5.2.1.1. LDPE & LLDPE
- 5.2.1.2. HDPE
- 5.2.2. Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)
- 5.2.3. Polypropylene (PP)
- 5.2.4. Polystyrene (PS) and Expanded polystyrene (EPS
- 5.2.5. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
- 5.2.6. Other Rigid Plastic Packaging Materials
- 5.2.1. Polyethylene (PE)**
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-use Industries
- 5.3.1. Food**
- 5.3.1.1. Candy and Confectionery
- 5.3.1.2. Frozen Foods
- 5.3.1.3. Fresh Produce
- 5.3.1.4. Dairy Products
- 5.3.1.5. Dry Foods
- 5.3.1.6. Meat, Poultry, and Seafood
- 5.3.1.7. Pet Food
- 5.3.1.8. Other Food Products
- 5.3.2. Foodservice**
- 5.3.2.1. Quick Service Restaurants (QSRs)
- 5.3.2.2. Full-Service Restaurants (FSRs)
- 5.3.2.3. Coffee and Snack Outlets
- 5.3.2.4. Retail Establishments
- 5.3.2.5. Institutional
- 5.3.2.6. Hospitality
- 5.3.2.7. Other Foodservice End Uses
- 5.3.3. Beverage
- 5.3.4. Healthcare
- 5.3.5. Cosmetics and Personal Care
- 5.3.6. Industrial
- 5.3.7. Building and Construction
- 5.3.8. Automotive
- 5.3.9. Other En
- 5.3.1. Food**
- 5.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.4.1. Morocco
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 6. Competitive Analysis
- 6.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 6.2. Company Profiles
- 6.2.1 Alpla Group
- 6.2.1.1. Overview
- 6.2.1.2. Products
- 6.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.2 Plastipak Holdings Inc
- 6.2.2.1. Overview
- 6.2.2.2. Products
- 6.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.3 Grief Inc
- 6.2.3.1. Overview
- 6.2.3.2. Products
- 6.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.4 Pet Preforms Morocco
- 6.2.4.1. Overview
- 6.2.4.2. Products
- 6.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.5 Bericap Holding GmbH
- 6.2.5.1. Overview
- 6.2.5.2. Products
- 6.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.6 Sumilon Eco PET SARL
- 6.2.6.1. Overview
- 6.2.6.2. Products
- 6.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.7 Blowtec Morocco
- 6.2.7.1. Overview
- 6.2.7.2. Products
- 6.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.8 Intel Plast
- 6.2.8.1. Overview
- 6.2.8.2. Products
- 6.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.9 Mikafric8 2 Heat Map Analysis8 3 Competitor Analysis - Emerging vs Established Player
- 6.2.9.1. Overview
- 6.2.9.2. Products
- 6.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.1 Alpla Group
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Material 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End-use Industries 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Material 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End-use Industries 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 2.23%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market?
Key companies in the market include Alpla Group, Plastipak Holdings Inc, Grief Inc, Pet Preforms Morocco, Bericap Holding GmbH, Sumilon Eco PET SARL, Blowtec Morocco, Intel Plast, Mikafric8 2 Heat Map Analysis8 3 Competitor Analysis - Emerging vs Established Player.
3. What are the main segments of the Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market?
The market segments include Product Type, Material, End-use Industries.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD XX Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
Growing Food Industry in Morocco; Availability of Customized Rigid Plastic Packaging Solutions.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) Segment is Estimated to Have the Largest Market Share.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Growing Food Industry in Morocco; Availability of Customized Rigid Plastic Packaging Solutions.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
May 2024: Plastipak Holding GmbH, a US-based manufacturer with operations in Morocco, teamed up with Kraft Heinz, a US-based food giant, to produce KRAFT Real Mayo and MIRACLE WHIP containers exclusively from recycled PET (rPET) material. Through this collaboration, Plastipak is committed to assisting Kraft Heinz in achieving a 20% reduction in the use of virgin plastic across its global packaging portfolio by 2030.
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 3800, USD 4500, and USD 5800 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in Million.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.
12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?
The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.
13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market report?
While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.
14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Morocco Rigid Plastic Packaging Market, consider subscribing to industry newsletters, following relevant companies and organizations, or regularly checking reputable industry news sources and publications.
Methodology
Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database



Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)

Note*: In applicable scenarios
Step 3 - Data Sources
Primary Research
- Web Analytics
- Survey Reports
- Research Institute
- Latest Research Reports
- Opinion Leaders
Secondary Research
- Annual Reports
- White Paper
- Latest Press Release
- Industry Association
- Paid Database
- Investor Presentations

Step 4 - Data Triangulation
Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study
These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.
Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.
During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence

