Morocco imposes five-year anti-dumping duty on Egyptian canned tomatoes

MOROCCO – Morocco has introduced a 29.93% anti-dumping duty on imports of canned tomatoes from Egypt; a measure, which came into effect on December 24, 2024 and will remain in place until 2029.

The decision follows an investigation initiated in August 2023 by the Moroccan authorities, prompted by concerns raised by the National Federation of Agribusiness (FENAGRI).

The inquiry concluded that Egyptian canned tomato imports were harming Morocco’s domestic producers.

“The investigations carried out concluded that imports of canned goods from Egypt have had negative effects on the levels of selling prices in Morocco of similar products, as well as on the quantities sold, market share, and profits of the local industry,” the Ministry of Industry and Trade stated in April 2024.

The inquiry examined multiple data points, including export prices, ex-factory prices from Egyptian supermarkets, and Moroccan sales figures.

The findings revealed that the pricing strategy of Egyptian exporters led to significant disruptions in Morocco’s market dynamics.

Egypt has long been Morocco’s leading supplier of canned tomatoes, accounting for about 70% of imports in 2022.

That year, Morocco imported over 10,700 tonnes of canned tomatoes from Egypt. In 2023, the country purchased more than USD 29.6 million worth of canned tomatoes, with Egypt providing nearly 75% of the total.

The ministry’s decision to impose duties aims to shield local producers from what it describes as unfair competition.

However, this measure could create challenges for Egyptian exporters, who now face heightened competition from suppliers in Spain, China, Italy, and India, alongside Morocco’s own producers.

While Morocco seeks to safeguard its domestic industry, the imposition of the anti-dumping duty could reshape the competitive landscape of its canned tomato market.

With Egypt’s dominance potentially reduced, other countries might increase their presence in Morocco’s import portfolio.

The duty also reflects the broader tensions between the need for market protection and the principles of open trade.

By the time the measure expires in 2029, Moroccan producers may achieve greater stability, but the immediate effects on pricing and market shares remain to be seen.

As the situation develops, Moroccan consumers and businesses will need to navigate the changing market dynamics.

For now, the government remains firm in its stance. “Protecting our producers is essential to ensuring the long-term health of the industry,” a trade ministry official remarked.

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