Morocco is projecting over 3.5 billion dirhams in customs revenue from alcoholic beverages in 2026, according to estimates included in the draft finance bill presented during the ministerial council held on October 19. The breakdown reveals that approximately 1.4 billion dirhams will come from duties on wine and spirits, while imported beer is expected to generate around 1.9 billion dirhams.
These figures highlight the consistent fiscal role that alcohol taxation plays in the national budget, even as the consumption of such products remains tightly regulated. Although the tax framework appears stable on the surface, it continues to stir debate over the high rates applied to alcoholic imports. Morocco has long maintained steep duties on these goods, operating under a regulatory model based on Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariffs. For example, imported wine is typically subject to duties amounting to nearly 49% of its declared value—excluding the additional markups applied at the retail level.
The impact of this tax burden is felt directly by consumers. Prices for alcoholic beverages in Morocco, especially in licensed retailers or hotels, are often significantly higher than in comparable markets. Travel guides and consumer platforms regularly note the elevated cost of a bottle of wine or spirits, which can place such products out of reach for many would-be buyers.
Still, alcohol remains a lucrative source of government revenue. In 2023, taxes collected on alcohol and tobacco ranked among the top contributors to Morocco’s indirect tax income. As the 2026 budget plan also aims to boost revenue from other specially taxed products, alcohol maintains its status as a key component of the country’s fiscal equation—balancing regulatory controls with financial returns.
