Morocco has tightened controls on fresh and chilled garlic imports. Since September 24, 2026, the entry of these products into the domestic market has been subject to a prior import license for a period of 18 months, amid growing pressure on local garlic producers.
The new measure applies to products classified under tariff heading 0703.20.00.00. It comes as Moroccan garlic producers have been raising concerns for several months over the pressure created by imports, particularly from China and Spain.
The domestic sector is facing significant pressure on prices. In Ifrane province, producers have reported selling garlic at around MAD 8 per kilogram, while production costs are estimated to exceed MAD 15 per kilogram.
High seed, labor and farming costs are weighing heavily on producers’ margins. The arrival of imported products at competitive prices has further intensified pressure on the domestic market.
For several months, industry professionals have been calling for tighter controls on imports in order to protect domestic production and agricultural incomes.
The introduction of a prior licensing requirement therefore represents a new regulatory instrument. It will allow authorities to monitor imported volumes more closely and obtain better visibility on the operators involved.
The measure comes within a broader framework of monitoring agricultural trade. Morocco remains strongly integrated into international fruit and vegetable markets, with significant import and export flows.
For the garlic sector, the challenge is now to strike a balance between ensuring adequate domestic supplies, keeping prices affordable for consumers and protecting local production.
The 18-month measure could therefore serve as an observation period to assess developments in import volumes, market prices and domestic garlic production.
