Moroccan Government criticizes EU tariffs, highlights rainfall benefits

Moroccan government spokesperson Mustapha Baitas denounced the European Commission’s recent decision to impose compensatory tariffs on Moroccan-made metal frames imported into the European Union, calling for a comprehensive approach to the bilateral partnership.

Speaking at a press briefing following the weekly government council meeting Thursday, Baitas stressed that the Morocco-EU partnership “cannot be subject to selective treatment” and that the government is considering all possible measures to address the issue. The tariffs have raised concerns among Moroccan exporters, given the economic ties between Rabat and Brussels.

Rainfall Boosts Agricultural Prospects

Baitas also highlighted the significant impact of recent rainfall on Morocco’s agriculture, noting that the precipitation in February and March revitalized farmers’ hopes and benefitted key agricultural sectors, including olive trees, date palms and citrus fruits.

“These rains will ease irrigation difficulties, lower energy costs for farmers and improve overall agricultural conditions,” he said. He acknowledged, however, that while the rainfall represents a surplus compared to last year, it still falls short of the country’s annual average.

Since Feb. 22, Morocco has recorded a 130% increase in rainfall compared to the same period last year, reaching 43 millimeters, up from 18 millimeters. As a result, dam water reserves have improved significantly, rising from 27% to 36% as of March 20, equivalent to an increase of 6 billion cubic meters.

Between Sept. 1, 2024, and March 19, 2025, Morocco’s average rainfall reached 113.9 millimeters, representing an 18.3% deficit compared to the annual norm of 139.3 millimeters. The precipitation was accompanied by snowfall in key mountainous areas, further contributing to water reserves.

Government Approves Amendments to Traffic Law

In a separate development, the government council approved an amendment to the country’s road traffic law, aimed at updating procedures related to traffic fines. The decree, introduced by Minister of Equipment and Water Nizar Baraka on behalf of Minister of Transport Abdelssamad Kayouh, aligns existing regulations with legal updates made under Law 116.14.

Key revisions include clarifying the process for retrieving confiscated driving licenses and vehicle registration certificates, as well as extending the deadline for document retrieval to 30 days after payment of fines. These changes seek to streamline enforcement and reflect recent modifications to the national road code.