In a bid to protect its economy from unfair competition, Morocco is introducing stricter technical standards for imported steel and iron products while intensifying anti-dumping measures. These efforts aim to safeguard national industries and bolster economic stability.
Starting January 21, Morocco will enforce 16 new technical standards for steel and iron imports, including flat and long steel products and sandwich panels from Turkey. Initially planned for August 2024, the implementation was delayed due to administrative and logistical challenges.
Customs authorities revealed that the delay stemmed from a lack of local laboratories equipped to test the compliance of imported products. Currently, imported steel and iron undergo checks outlined in customs administration circulars.
Six of the new standards are tied to specific Import and Payment Title Management (GTIP) codes, aligned with existing industrial product controls. The Ministry of Industry is expected to provide further details on how these new regulations will be applied.
In parallel, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce has adopted 38 commercial protection measures to counter dumping practices by certain countries. Dumping involves selling subsidized goods at artificially low prices, disrupting local markets.
The measures are based on Law No. 15.09, designed to protect local production while honoring Morocco’s international commitments. Sectors affected include ceramics, textiles, plastics, steel, and household appliances. These actions aim to correct market distortions caused by low-cost imports and enhance the competitiveness of national industries.
To address increasingly complex global trade practices, Morocco is modernizing its legislative and procedural frameworks. Key initiatives include renegotiating free trade agreements, updating commercial protection laws, and streamlining administrative processes.
These reforms are already showing results. Between 2022 and 2023, the measures preserved 2,534 jobs across affected industries while boosting their national and international competitiveness.
As Morocco implements these protections, it underscores its commitment to fostering a stable, fair, and competitive economic environment for its industries.
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