Morocco: The Import Quota of 300,000 Exempted Cattle Will Be Reached by 2026
The quota of 300,000 cattle intended for slaughter, which benefits from exemptions from import duties and VAT for the year 2026, has been fully reached, the Ministry of Agriculture, Maritime Fisheries, and Food Sovereignty announced on Friday.
According to the ministry, this cap takes into account both cattle already imported and those covered by valid duty exemptions that are currently being imported. Importers and industry professionals were notified of the exhaustion of the quota through a notice published on October 15, 2026.
The average monthly import rate was nearly 24,000 heads, with peaks exceeding 44,000 cattle in June and July, compared to around 17,000 in August and September. A total of 37 companies participated in these operations, with over 90% of the imported animals originating from Brazil.
The ministry also noted an increase in requests in October, following the reopening of imports from Portugal, largely due to its geographical proximity.
This measure aimed to strengthen the domestic market supply of red meat and contribute to price stability, amidst challenges such as drought, a declining herd, and rising feed costs.
For the year 2026, the government suspended import duties and VAT applicable to the import of 300,000 cattle until December 31. Requests for exemptions were submitted via the PortNet platform and processed in chronological order within a 24-hour timeframe.
