RABAT, May 4 – Morocco has moved to reassure citizens over energy security, despite a notable decline in natural gas imports during the first quarter of 2026, as global supply disruptions ripple through international markets.
Data from energy analytics platform Attaqa shows Morocco’s gas imports fell 15% year-on-year to 1.98 terawatt-hours in the first three months of the year, reflecting interruptions linked to escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
Imports initially rose at the start of the year before declining sharply. February volumes dropped to 572 gigawatt-hours, compared with 700 gigawatt-hours in the same month of 2025, with intermittent supply disruptions reported during the period. Morocco sources liquefied natural gas from multiple suppliers, including the United States and Russia, as part of its diversification strategy.
Despite the decline, officials have emphasized that domestic supply remains secure. Energy Minister Leila Benali said national fuel reserves are sufficient to meet demand for several months. Diesel stocks currently cover around 47 days of consumption, while gasoline reserves extend beyond 49 days, she noted.
The government has also stepped up fiscal measures to cushion households from rising energy costs. Economy and Finance Minister Nadia Fettah Alaoui said authorities have been allocating roughly MAD 1.6 billion ($160 million) per month since mid-March to mitigate the impact of higher fuel prices.
Fuel costs have become a growing concern for consumers, with elevated global oil prices feeding into domestic inflation. While recent adjustments saw diesel prices fall by about MAD 1 per litre and gasoline by roughly MAD 1.10, both remain close to MAD 15 per litre, continuing to weigh on purchasing power.
Officials attribute the price pressures to global energy market volatility, noting that oil prices have climbed between $100 and $110 per barrel amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Looking ahead, Morocco is pursuing longer-term strategies to strengthen energy security, including advancing the Nigeria-Morocco gas pipeline project. The initiative is expected to play a key role in supporting domestic demand and reinforcing the country’s push toward greater energy independence.
