Morocco’s proposed 5% import tax advance raises concerns over consumer prices

Morocco’s proposed 2027 Finance Bill would introduce a 5% advance tax payment on imported goods intended for resale without modification, prompting concerns among traders about higher import costs and their potential impact on consumer prices.

The measure, currently under parliamentary review, would require importers to pay the advance automatically during customs clearance. It is intended to strengthen tax compliance, curb evasion and broaden the tax base, particularly among businesses operating outside the formal economy.

However, import professionals warn that the measure could place additional financial pressure on traders already facing disruptions to international supply chains and rising shipping costs.

An industry source involved in textile imports told Hespress that the provision primarily targets informal operators and individuals importing merchandise without a registered company or valid tax identification.

“The measure was designed to ensure that the Treasury collects revenue from transactions taking place outside tax oversight,” the source said.

The source explained that formally registered companies could offset or recover the advance through their regular tax settlements, with proof of tax compliance serving as a key distinction between formal and informal operators.

Established importers expect limited exposure

According to the source, major textile importers generally operate through registered companies, import merchandise in large containers and maintain established accounting and tax records.

These businesses therefore expect to face less exposure to the measure than smaller, unregistered traders bringing goods into Morocco for resale.

The source added that many importers had yet to examine the provision’s technical details and were still assessing its implications.

Traders warn of possible price increases

Aziz Bounou, president of the Union of Traders and Professionals of Derb Omar, one of Casablanca’s largest commercial districts, warned that additional costs at customs could eventually affect retail prices.

“Any increase in taxes or duties paid at customs contributes to higher retail prices,” Bounou told Hespress.

He said the proposed measure comes amid continued international supply chain disruptions and rising transportation and shipping expenses, making additional import-related payments particularly burdensome.