In a bid to combat the surge in prices of essential goods, the Moroccan government has decided to suspend import duties on olive oil and various types of meat. This move is part of broader efforts to control the rising costs of products that are widely consumed by Moroccan citizens.
The decrees related to these measures were presented by Fouzi Lekjaa, Minister Delegate in charge of the Budget, and were adopted during the government council meeting on Friday, chaired by Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch.
Among the approved measures, the government passed Decree No. 2.24.960, which suspends import tariffs on virgin and extra-virgin olive oil. Additionally, Decree No. 2.24.961 was adopted, amending the earlier decree from January 25, 2024, that had already suspended import duties on domestic cattle.
The government also endorsed Decree No. 2.24.962, which extends the suspension of import duties to domestic sheep. Furthermore, Decree No. 2.24.963 suspends import tariffs on the meat of domesticated animals, including cattle, sheep, goats, and camels.
These decisions come at a critical time as consumers and smaller businesses have been grappling with the escalating prices of red meat and other staples. By suspending these import duties, the government aims to ease the financial burden on citizens and stabilize market prices for these essential products.