The Moroccan government has temporarily suspended the issuance of new export permits for tomatoes, onions and potatoes. Announced on November 12, the measure aims to ensure adequate domestic supplies and curb rising prices for these three staple foods.

The government seeks to boost domestic supply

With the suspension, the government aims to keep a larger share of available produce on the Moroccan market. The decision comes alongside ongoing monitoring of prices and supplies by an interministerial committee and continued emergency support for road hauliers.

The impact on household grocery bills will depend on how much produce is redirected to domestic sales channels. Higher volumes reaching wholesale markets could ease pressure on prices. How quickly any price reductions reach consumers will also depend on transport costs, distribution margins and harvest schedules.

The length of the suspension will affect producers’ sales

For farms and packing facilities, the challenge will be finding buyers for some of the produce earmarked for export. The size grades, presentation and prices agreed with foreign customers may differ from those typical of the Moroccan market. If the suspension continues, businesses may have to revise their shipping schedules and revenue forecasts.

The government has said it will take into account the interests of farmers and Morocco’s African partners. In the coming weeks, changes in the volumes reaching wholesale markets and in retail prices will help gauge the impact of the decision on all three products.