Morocco halts beef cattle imports after reaching 300,000 head quota

Morocco has suspended the importation of beef cattle for slaughter after reaching the annual quota of 300,000 heads set for 2026. The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Rural Development, Water and Forests announced that the limit was met following the inclusion of cattle currently in transit under existing customs exemptions.

Data from the Ministry indicates that 37 importing companies participated in the process. Brazil accounted for over 90% of the total imports due to higher supply availability compared to European markets. Monthly import averages reached approximately 24,000 heads, with peaks exceeding 44,000 heads during June and July.

The government's decision to provide customs and VAT exemptions for these 300,000 cattle was intended to stabilize red meat prices and ensure national supply. The country has faced rising meat prices in recent years due to drought, which reduced livestock numbers, and the high cost of both local and imported fodder. These conditions previously led some breeders to slaughter female cattle, further tightening the market supply.