The Moroccan Competition Council has highlighted discrepancies between local fuel prices and global market trends, pointing to uneven adjustments in diesel and gasoline costs.
In a memo covering March 1–16, 2026, the council noted that geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have driven up crude and refined fuel prices worldwide. Morocco, which depends heavily on petroleum imports, has felt the impact strongly, with domestic prices reacting differently to international benchmarks.
According to the council’s findings, diesel prices in Morocco rose more slowly than global averages. Pump prices were about 0.89 dirhams ($0.09) per liter lower than international increases. Gasoline, however, climbed faster, exceeding global rises by roughly 0.17 dirhams per liter.
The council also observed minor variations in upstream prices charged by distributors to service stations. For diesel, differences averaged around 0.20 dirhams per liter, representing about 10 percent of the international increase. Despite these variations, competition among distributors generally pushed retail prices toward convergence.
Officials stressed that the current semi-monthly fuel price adjustment system is under review. Discussions with industry stakeholders are ongoing to explore reforms aimed at improving transparency, strengthening competition, and maintaining market stability.
Fuel prices rose again on Tuesday, marking the second increase in March. Since mid-month, diesel has climbed by about 3.70 dirhams per liter, while gasoline has risen by 3.01 dirhams. The council linked these hikes to continued instability in global energy markets, particularly tensions involving Iran and broader Middle East conflicts.
By flagging the gap between local and global price movements, the Competition Council aims to ensure that adjustments reflect fair market practices. The review of pricing mechanisms is expected to provide a clearer framework for balancing consumer protection with the realities of global supply pressures.
