Morocco is facing widespread public discontent due to the soaring prices of fuel and food products, including essential staples such as tomatoes, onions, potatoes, and legumes. This price surge affects not only low-income citizens but also the middle class, significantly weakening their purchasing power.
Moroccan citizens are reaching their limits, unable to endure the growing financial strain. A national study conducted by Parliament on « values and institutional implementation » revealed a strong willingness to protest, boycott products, and take to the streets, as evidenced by the rising frustration on social media.
The Moroccan government claims to be addressing the crisis through measures such as suspending customs duties and VAT on certain goods. However, it attributes the price hikes mainly to weather conditions and global market fluctuations, a stance that fails to satisfy the public.
Beyond inflation, the real issue lies in the stagnation of purchasing power. The key question is not only why prices are rising but why Moroccans’ purchasing power has not improved over the years.
Morocco is classified as a low- to middle-income country, heavily dependent on taxation and debt. Public debt repayments consume more resources than the combined budgets of education and healthcare.
Wealthy Moroccans contribute little to taxes, while employees bear the burden through automatic salary deductions, eroding the middle class.
Economic growth has slowed significantly in recent years, with a rate of just 1.2% in 2023 and an unemployment rate exceeding 12% nationally.
The lack of real competition allows certain monopolies to control the market and influence legislation meant to regulate them.
The real solution lies in comprehensive economic and fiscal reforms to ensure greater social justice and strengthen citizens’ purchasing power.
