Persistent rise in fuel prices in Morocco: disconnection from the global market?

In September, oil prices experienced a notable decline on international markets, reaching levels below $67 per barrel. However, this downward trend had no effect on fuel prices in Morocco, where consumers continue to pay high amounts. This situation led to a speech by MP Fatima Tamni of the Democratic Left Federation, who addressed a written question to the Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development.

Prices inconsistent with the global trend

In her question, Fatima Tamni stressed that fuel distribution companies are taking advantage of the drop in global prices to maximize their profits on the local market. According to experts, the price of a liter of diesel in Morocco should not exceed 10.23 dirhams, while that of a liter of gasoline should be less than 11.58 dirhams. However, current prices on the Moroccan market remain well above these thresholds, raising questions about the reasons for this divergence.

Accusations of lack of regulation

The MP did not hesitate to call fuel companies “greedy”, denouncing the lack of effective control by the Competition Council. She also criticizes the government’s silence, which she accuses of letting Moroccan citizens bear the consequences of this situation on their purchasing power. The high price of fuel weighs heavily on household budgets, already affected by rising inflation.

Role of business and government questioned

For Tamni, the problem is twofold: on the one hand, the lack of market regulation by the competent authorities, and on the other hand, the desire of companies to increase their profit margins, even when international economic conditions allow for a reduction in prices. She therefore calls for urgent intervention to regulate this strategic sector and protect the Moroccan consumer.

The question remains whether the government will heed this call and take concrete steps to ensure price transparency. For now, Moroccans continue to face fuel prices that do not reflect the reality of the global market, increasing the pressure on their daily lives.

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