Morocco's government has announced the suspension of import duties on red meat and poultry, effective from July 23, 2026, until November 30, 2026. The decision, published in the Official Bulletin, aims to increase domestic supply and lower consumer prices amid a severe drought that has reduced local livestock production.
The measure covers fresh, chilled, and frozen beef, sheep, goat, and poultry meat. It also includes a temporary suspension of value-added tax (VAT) on these imports, according to the Ministry of Economy and Finance.
Morocco has faced a multi-year drought, with rainfall deficits of up to 60% in some regions in 2025, leading to higher feed costs and reduced herd sizes. The government has also subsidized feed imports and restricted live animal exports to stabilize the market.
Consumer prices for red meat have risen by 15-20% year-on-year in early 2026, according to the High Commission for Planning. The import duty suspension is expected to ease pressure on households, particularly during the upcoming Eid al-Adha holiday, when meat demand traditionally spikes.
Agricultural unions have expressed mixed reactions, with some welcoming the move to curb inflation, while others warn it could hurt local farmers if imports flood the market without safeguards.
