The Moroccan authorities have initiated an anti-dumping investigation into imports of tomato sauce from Spain. This move follows a complaint filed by three Moroccan food industry companies, which account for 90% of the country's production of these products. The investigation, which began on November 12, aims to determine if Spanish products are being sold in the Moroccan market at prices lower than their normal value, potentially harming local producers.
The complaint was submitted by the Moroccan Federation of Canned Agricultural Products Industries (FICOPAM) on behalf of Vinaigrerie Moutarderie du Maroc (VMM), Agro Juice Processing (AJP), and Les Conserves de Meknès. These companies claim that imports of Spanish tomato sauce have increased significantly since 2023 and are being sold at prices lower than those in the Moroccan market. This, they argue, could negatively impact the competitiveness of Moroccan products and the performance of local companies.
The investigation will focus on ready-to-consume tomato sauces, including those used in households, restaurants, and the food industry. However, ketchup has been excluded from the investigation. The Moroccan Industry and Trade Ministry has defined two reference periods to verify potential dumping practices: July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, to study potential dumping margins, and January 1, 2023, to June 30, 2026, to analyze the evolution of imports and their impact on national production.
The investigation will involve collecting data from Spanish manufacturers and exporters, Moroccan importers, and local producers. This will enable a comparison of the normal value of products with their export prices and an assessment of their impact on the national industry. The Ministry has set December 18, 2026, as the deadline for interested parties to submit their comments and required documents.
Spanish producers and exporters will need to provide data on their sales, production volume, and commercial activities. Moroccan importers will be required to disclose the volume and value of their purchases of Spanish products and those from other countries. Selected companies will receive questionnaires to complete within the specified deadlines.
The anti-dumping investigation was requested due to concerns that Spanish tomato sauce imports are being sold at low prices, potentially harming Moroccan producers. The Moroccan authorities aim to ensure fair competition in the market and protect domestic industries. The investigation's outcome may lead to measures to address any unfair trade practices.
The Moroccan Industry and Trade Ministry's decision to launch an anti-dumping investigation demonstrates its commitment to enforcing trade regulations and protecting national industries. The investigation's progress and outcome will be closely monitored by stakeholders, including local producers, importers, and exporters.
Key points
- Morocco investigates alleged dumping of Spanish tomato sauce imports.
