The importation of non-hazardous waste is strictly regulated under the Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal, as ratified by Morocco, and is governed by existing laws and regulations, stated the Ministry of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development.
In a statement, the ministry reminded that Morocco ratified the Basel Convention, which was published in Official Bulletin No. 4892 on April 19, 2001, through Dahir No. 92-96-1. Waste management is regulated by Law No. 28-00 and its implementing decrees, particularly Decree No. 587-17-2, which outlines the conditions for the importation, exportation, and transport of waste. The ministry emphasized that any importation request must include a comprehensive dossier, including physical and chemical analyses and technical sheets for the waste involved.
In response to incorrect information and criticisms spread through the media and social networks, the ministry clarified that the international trade of non-hazardous waste is a competitive industry, especially with the growth of recycling and the circular economy. Morocco, as a participant in this global market, imports plastic, ferrous waste, and used tires to recycle and repurpose them as raw materials in industrial and energy sectors.
Since 2016, 416 authorizations have been issued to Moroccan companies for the importation of non-hazardous waste. Morocco favors imports from European countries, ensuring high-quality raw materials while minimizing environmental and health risks.
The authorization process is stringent, involving a thorough evaluation of the national industries’ needs and the economic feasibility of the imported waste. This process also requires advanced technologies to control emissions during recycling, thereby ensuring air quality preservation and public health protection.
Economically and socially, the importation and repurposing of non-hazardous waste are key to the transition towards a green and circular economy. These activities contribute to job creation and energy cost reduction while supporting sustainable industrial development. By 2030, these efforts could generate up to 60,000 jobs and reduce energy dependency through the substitution of fossil fuels.
