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The Ministry of Energy Transition in Morocco stated that the supply of petroleum products to ports and the local market remained uninterrupted, aiming to ease worries about potential shortages following a significant increase in fuel prices and high consumer demand.

A representative from the ministry stated that shipments from distributors are happening “on a regular basis, without any interruptions,” which “ensures the stability of the local market.”

The source mentioned that concerns about supply shortages were typically based on incorrect information rather than real market situations. The individual noted that the ministry was conducting regular meetings with industry stakeholders to monitor ship movements, both when they left and during unloading, as global energy tensions led drivers to engage in precautionary purchases.

The same source mentioned that the Strait of Hormuz continued to be a key maritime passage, although Morocco depended on multiple import locations and had recently strengthened its strategic stockpiles.

“The strategic stock of petroleum products has been increased due to shipments that were already en route to Morocco and have now been completely unloaded,” the source stated, noting that the local situation remains “under control, at least for the time being.” Earlier this month, the ministry mentioned that it is regularly monitoring national petroleum stocks to ensure domestic needs are met in the most favorable conditions.

When questioned if Morocco was fulfilling the legal obligation to maintain 60 days of strategic petroleum reserves, the source did not provide a clear response, stating only that reserves had been increased through extra shipments. Reported on March 5, citing an official source, that current stocks met roughly 30 days of demand.

Tayeb Benali, the vice president of the national federation that represents owners and managers of fuel stations, stated that oil companies, not the station operators, determine pump prices and have the ability to modify them remotely. He further claimed that the official 60-day company stock “is not truly accessible and is not intended for the benefit of consumers,” but instead “is utilized to establish pricing, maintain market control, and boost profits.” Benali mentioned that some stations faced shortages after suppliers stopped deliveries earlier this month, prompting consumers to rush and purchase fuel before the recent price hike.

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