Brussels seeks workaround after EU judges annul Sahara trade preferences

Brussels seeks workaround after EU judges annul Sahara trade preferences
Wednesday 24 September 2025 - 14:43

The European Commission has acknowledged last year’s ruling by the EU Court of Justice annulling the extension of tariff preferences in its trade agreement with Morocco to include the Sahara, while stressing its determination to preserve ties with Rabat.

 Responding to a written question from Belgian MEP Kathleen Van Brempt, the Commission said it had “taken note” of the October 2024 judgment and is “engaged in discussions with Moroccan authorities to find a solution.”

The ruling’s effects remain in place until October 4, 2025.

In its published reply, signed by Trade and Economic Security Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič, the Commission underlined that the EU “attaches great importance” to its strategic partnership with Morocco and intends to “maintain and strengthen” cooperation across all fields, in line with European Council conclusions adopted last October.

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