Morocco: Old taxis sent to the pound

The latter refuse to apply the new regulations, pointing to the difficulties encountered with taxi license holders, as well as the lack of financial support to renew their vehicles. Support that had nevertheless been promised, before being suspended on December 31 last.

On the other side of the ring, citizen associations welcome this measure. For them, it was high time to put an end to the circulation of dilapidated vehicles, endangering the safety of passengers.

The note from the Ministry of the Interior is clear: taxi owners must modernize their fleet and guarantee vehicles in good condition, respecting the technical and safety standards in force. The tug-of-war is just beginning.

In 2022, Morocco had launched a taxi renewal program, with more than 56,000 new vehicles put into circulation. This program was part of a comprehensive strategy to improve the sector, which also includes strengthening the professionalization of drivers, modernizing services, training and a better information system.

New regulations had been put in place, requiring in particular that only professional drivers can operate taxis.