In a move to safeguard its domestic manufacturing sector, the Moroccan Ministry of Industry and Trade has initiated an anti-dumping investigation targeting galvanized steel wires imports originating from Egypt and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The decision comes in response to complaints lodged by local producers who allege that these imports are being sold in Morocco at unfairly low prices, undermining their competitiveness.
According to preliminary findings, export prices for galvanized steel wire from the two countries have been found to be significantly lower than their production costs in the exporting nations. This disparity surpasses legally permissible thresholds, raising suspicions of dumping practices. Authorities are scrutinizing trade data spanning January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024, as part of the ongoing probe.
The issue gained urgency due to the dramatic surge in imports over recent years. In 2020, Morocco imported just 112 tons of galvanized steel wire. However, by September 2024, this figure skyrocketed to 14,699 tons—a staggering increase that has placed immense pressure on local manufacturers. As a result, domestic producers have seen their market share dwindle, prompting them to seek government intervention.
Local businesses argue that the influx of cheap imports is not only threatening their survival but also distorting market dynamics. “We’re competing against products priced below production costs,” said one industry representative. “This isn’t fair competition—it’s unsustainable.”
The outcome of this probe will be closely watched by stakeholders both within Morocco and abroad. For Moroccan producers, it represents a pivotal moment in their fight to reclaim lost ground in the domestic market. Meanwhile, exporters in Egypt and the UAE face potential repercussions if the claims are validated.
As global trade tensions continue to evolve, Morocco’s stance underscores its commitment to protecting its industrial base while fostering equitable trading relationships. The final verdict of the investigation is expected in the coming months, with significant implications for all parties involved.
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