Seizures, auctions and bankruptcies: Why the car rental sector is agonizing in northern Morocco

Gathered in a press conference, professionals in the sector have warned about the frequent immobilization of their vehicles during investigations related to drug trafficking or illegal immigration. Some cars are even auctioned off by court order, even though they constitute the sole working tool of the agencies. The operators recall that their role is limited to rental without a driver and that the legal responsibility for criminal acts must lie exclusively with the tenant.

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The sector also points to a "systematic exclusion" within the industrial zones of Tangier. Local agencies accuse large investors and public administrations of favoring service providers based in Casablanca or Rabat to the detriment of companies in the region. Professionals denounce a lack of transparency and favoritism in the management of tenders, a situation deemed "contrary to the principles of advanced regionalization".

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To avoid massive bankruptcies and job losses, industry players are calling for the establishment of a "regional preference" in public procurement. They are seeking the support of the Regional Investment Center (CRI) to strengthen their competitiveness and facilitate their access to public contracts. "A legal balance must be established to guarantee the protection of the rights of all parties without harming the livelihoods of professionals," concluded the representatives of the association.