Morocco takes measures to curb food inflation ahead of Ramadan

Amid rising prices, Moroccan authorities have been inspecting markets to make sure supply and prices are appropriate while taking measures to curb exports of main vegetables ahead of Ramadan.

Reuters reported Morocco ordered a halt of tomatoes, potatoes and onion exports to West African markets to ensure food security at home.

The prices of the three vegetables have soared in recent weeks and have been exported informally to African markets, a government source told Hespress.

“Exports to European markets are controlled by the government together with producers and traders of fruits and vegetables through permits offered by competent authorities,” Hespress reported citing the anonymous government source.

The government will take measures to ensure lower prices and abundant supply of the local market, spokesman for the government Mustapha Baitas said last week

The government had also announced last week that it halted customs duty on the import of cows in order to guarantee lower meat prices.

A social front on social media announced protests on the anniversary of the February 20 movement against high prices.

Food inflation was 11% in 2022 while overall inflation stood at 6.6% under the impact of higher fuel prices and imported inflation.