Diesel price hike — fare spikes, subsidies flop, union/opposition mobilization
Key Questions
What are the latest fuel price hikes in Morocco?
The second hike increased gasoil prices by 1.70 DH per liter and benzine by 1.57 DH per liter, bringing prices to around 13+ MAD per liter. This follows global oil price fluctuations, with Brent crude exceeding $112 per barrel.
Why are fuel prices rising despite lower production costs?
The energy ministry reports 51 days of fuel stocks purchased at $60 per barrel, contrasting with current Brent prices over $112. Critics like Ourid highlight opacity in pricing decisions, amid fiscal strain on the LFR fund.
What demands are Moroccan unions making regarding fuel prices?
Unions such as CDT and UNTM are demanding 20% wage increases to offset the impact of rising fuel costs. Strikes are escalating in response to the price hikes.
How is the opposition responding to the fuel price increases?
Opposition parties like Mudian and PJD are calling for price caps and investigations into potential cartels. Figures such as Madih and El Yamani warn of potential social explosions due to the unrest.
Will butane or electricity prices be affected?
Prime Minister Akhannouch has stated there will be no increases in butane or electricity prices. Bank Al-Maghrib reports an energy import bill of 110.5 billion MAD, linking to global factors fueling end-April unrest.
Second hike +1.70 DH gasoil/+1.57 benzine (~13+ MAD/l); energy ministry 51 days stocks ($60/bbl vs $112+ Brent); LFR fiscal strain; Ourid slams opacity; unions (CDT/UNTM) 20% demands; opposition (Mudian/PJD) caps/cartels; Madih/El Yamani warn explosion; coastal fishing demands gasoil caps; strikes escalating. Akhannouch no butane/elec; BAM energy bill 110.5bn MAD; Assabah fuel-to-veggie spillover. Global ties fuel end-April unrest.