Morocco to Maintain Alcohol Tax in 2024 Budget, Minister Confirms

Lekjaa stressed the need to maintain the tax legislation on alcohol. "The Moroccan people do not need to be guided on their individual freedom. The Moroccan civilization has been extending for more than 12 centuries and the approach adopted is mainly economic," explained the delegate minister in charge of the budget, stressing that "the introduction of a tax on alcohol consumption is linked to the significant profitability between production and final use of these products, allowing the State to collect part of these margins."

Some parliamentary advisers have expressed their opposition to this measure which, according to Lekjaa, aims to allow the State to generate revenue without impacting low-income consumers who could turn to smuggling and thus consume adulterated products, harmful to their health. The minister promised to continue discussions with these parliamentarians.

Sugary products are not subject to a tax under the new tax measures. "The ongoing discussion with the manufacturers, open to Parliament, gives the latter a deadline to adjust the sugar content of their products to international standards," Lekjaa specified, noting that this process could last an entire year and that the measure aims to "protect the health of citizens, especially children."