Fuel prices have risen sharply in Morocco and across global markets following the escalation of conflict in the Middle East involving the United States, Israel and Iran, with disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz adding pressure to energy supply chains.
In Morocco, diesel prices increased by about 2 dirhams per litre and gasoline by around 1.44 dirhams at the start of the week, prompting concerns over a potential new inflationary wave similar to the 2022 energy shock, when diesel prices exceeded 17 dirhams per litre.
The price surge reflects broader global trends, with fuel costs rising in countries reliant on imports through the Strait of Hormuz despite the availability of strategic reserves. In the United States, diesel prices climbed above $5 per gallon, their highest level since December 2022, according to GasBuddy data cited by Reuters.
European markets have also recorded increases. Diesel prices in France rose to around 2 euros per litre, compared with about 1.75 euros before the conflict, while Spain and the United Kingdom have seen similar upward trends, reflecting tightening supply and higher crude prices, which have risen by roughly 40 percent since late February.
Economist Idriss Fina said the impact of the current conflict differs from the prolonged Russia Ukraine war, describing it as a shorter and more contained shock likely to last a few months as Washington seeks to secure maritime routes.
He said a return to 2022 price levels in Morocco was unlikely, though the country remains exposed due to its dependence on imported fuel.
Energy expert Amine Bennouna said recent increases in Morocco were premature, arguing that distributors were still selling stock purchased at lower prices and that price adjustments should have been more gradual.
Morocco’s strategic reserves cover roughly 30 days, compared with more than 100 days in countries such as France, highlighting structural vulnerabilities in supply security.
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