Morocco extends 170% wheat import duties until the end of August

Morocco has extended its 170% tariff on soft wheat imports until August 31, 2026, giving domestic farmers more time to market their new-crop wheat. The measure, which took effect on June 1, had been scheduled to expire on July 31 but was prolonged due to slower-than-expected procurement of locally produced grain.

According to the National Federation of Millers and the National Federation of Cereal and Pulse Traders, only about 500 thsd tons of domestic wheat had been collected by the end of July, well below the target of at least 1.5 mln tons. The high import duty is intended to encourage buyers to purchase locally produced wheat before turning to imports.

The slow pace of grain collection has been attributed to several factors. Many farmers have retained part of their harvest for on-farm use, while labor shortages, aging farm equipment, and prolonged rainfall have delayed harvesting operations. Authorities expect the one-month extension to give farmers and grain collectors additional time to market the domestic crop.

Grain industry representatives, however, warn that slow collections could tighten supplies if import support is not restored in time for September demand. Morocco currently holds wheat stocks sufficient to cover about three months of consumption, although higher global wheat prices could add further pressure during the transition from domestic to imported supplies.

Despite these short-term concerns, Morocco expects a much stronger wheat season in 2026/27. The country’s wheat harvest is forecast to reach 7.5 mln tons, nearly double the previous season’s output thanks to improved yields and a larger planted area. According to the USDA’s July forecast, Morocco’s wheat imports are expected to decline to 3.7 mln tons in the 2026/27 marketing year from 6.5 mln tons a year earlier.