Moroccan exporters brace for freight and insurance surge as Middle East war drags

Moroccan exporters brace for freight and insurance surge as Middle East war drags
AFP
Wednesday 11 March 2026 - 09:26

Moroccan exporters are closely monitoring the escalating conflict in the Middle East, warning that a prolonged war could disrupt supply chains, raise shipping costs and complicate trade logistics for companies operating in global markets.

A source within the Moroccan Exporters Confederation (COMEX), which represents more than 9,000 operators across multiple sectors and accounts for roughly 80 percent of Morocco’s export turnover, said the continuation of the conflict would have direct consequences for logistics and supply networks.

The source told Hespress that “the war in the Middle East will inevitably have direct and tangible repercussions on several vital economic levels, particularly supply chains and logistics costs.” He added that “the continuation of the conflict will necessarily lead to higher shipping costs,” describing such increases as “inevitable under current circumstances.”

Exporters are also concerned about access to key industrial inputs sourced from the region. According to the same source, “the direct impact on the supply of raw materials coming from that region will certainly occur,” particularly chemicals and other inputs used in manufacturing processes.

Insurance costs are also expected to rise. “Any export operation destined for that region will bear additional costs due to the increase in export insurance premiums,” the source said, noting that such increases are “a natural consequence of conflicts of this kind.”

Beyond logistics and material costs, Moroccan exporters fear disruptions to business travel and commercial activity. Trade fairs, business meetings and investment forums scheduled across the region could be postponed or rescheduled, while travel restrictions or security concerns could limit the mobility of business delegations.

Industry professionals say these combined pressures could weigh on Moroccan exporters already navigating volatile global markets, especially if the conflict continues to disrupt key maritime routes and international supply networks.

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