Moroccan cattle importers are struggling with high shipping costs and a shortage of vessels as they attempt to bring in about 40,000 Brazilian and other foreign cattle this month to help ease rising local meat prices.
Hicham Jouabri, regional secretary of red meat traders in Casablanca, said the lack of ships capable of carrying large herds from Brazil has disrupted import plans.
“Several importers want to bring more than 40,000 or even 50,000 heads of cattle this September,” Jouabri told Hespress AR. “But they are facing a shortage of foreign ships and very high shipping costs.”
He said the planned imports, though smaller than importers had hoped, could help stabilize prices. Wholesale red meat prices currently start at 70 dirhams ($7) per kilogram, while retail prices for imported beef are about 90 dirhams.
Brazilian cattle are increasingly sought after in Morocco because they are cheaper than local livestock, Jouabri added.
But consumer advocates say the high prices remain unjustified. Abdelkrim Chafii, vice president of the Moroccan Consumer Protection Association, said the rising costs are straining households and making it harder for families to cover basic needs.
“This increase is unjustified compared to what’s available on the market,” Chafii said. “Traders keep raising prices excessively, driven by profit rather than consumer interests.”
Official figures show Morocco’s cattle stock remains stable, with enough supply to meet demand. Chafii said imports would not be necessary if they fail to lower costs. He called for stronger market oversight to ensure transparency and protect consumers.
add your comment
Terms of publication : Not to offend the writer, people, sacred things, or attack religions or the divine self, and refrain from racist incitement and insults.