Follow-Up
In light of the economic shocks stemming from the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, Morocco seems to have partially succeeded in containing the effects of this crisis on prices. However, economists emphasize the need to revisit the design of public interventions to make them more effective and precise.
It is noted that the governmental measures adopted have helped alleviate pressure on energy prices. Yet, experts like Mohamed Rahj and Ahmed Bou Salahmi argue that the discussion is no longer confined to merely maintaining certain sensitive prices; it has evolved to focus on how to improve targeting quality, resort to appropriate tax tools, and ensure the state’s capacity to objectively assess the effectiveness of measures.
In this context, Rahj suggests a temporary tax relief on fuels by reducing the value-added tax from 10% to 7% and cutting some internal fees. He also calls on suppliers to make sacrifices on their profit margins, which stand at 1–1.20 dirhams per liter, compared to 0.40 dirhams for small traders. He stresses that the aim is not to permanently restructure the tax system, but to address temporary shocks with targeted and flexible means.
On his part, Bou Salahmi focuses on the structural aspect of the crisis, pointing out the need for more stringent state intervention in supply chains, especially at points where multiple intermediaries contribute to price increases. He believes that the current shock has revealed long-standing imbalances in how prices are formed, necessitating improved oversight at all stages of the supply chain to minimize its impact on the final consumer.
However, the most pressing point both experts emphasize concerns assessment. Bou Salahmi asserts that any government support should be based on simulation studies, sectoral estimates, and clear indicators, either before or after its implementation, to avoid prolonging costly programs without understanding their actual effectiveness.
Overall, the analysts agree that Morocco needs a swift intervention to address economic shocks. Yet, only through more precise and targeted strategies can gaps be corrected and ensure the sustainable impact of the measures taken.
