The Oil Market in Morocco

The Moroccan oil market can be compared to a complex patient whose diagnosis reveals a variety of symptoms: a persistent dependence on imports, unpredictable international price fluctuations, and constant pressure on household purchasing power. After a series of in-depth analyses, experts have identified structural imbalances as the underlying cause of this "illness." Fortunately, strategic "treatments" and innovative solutions are being implemented, promising stabilization and lasting resilience. In this issue, we explore the diagnosis of this sector.

Structure and Dynamics of the Gas Station Sector in Morocco

Morocco currently has 3,200 active gas stations, with a notable growth of approximately 180 new stations per year. This reflects a strong expansion of the sector throughout Morocco, supported by the involvement of 16 companies in fuel distribution. At the same time, 35 companies participate in this distribution, while 29 companies are dedicated to importing liquid petroleum products.

Morocco's Storage Capacity and Energy Self-sufficiency

The total storage capacity for liquid petroleum products exceeds 2 million cubic meters, including 1.5 million cubic meters for diesel (equivalent to 78 days of consumption). Gasoline has a capacity of 260,000 m³ (103 days), kerosene 138,000 m³ (61 days), and fuel oil 184,000 m³ (38 days). This infrastructure guarantees relative energy self-sufficiency in a context of growing demand.

Energy Consumption and Product Breakdown in Morocco

In 2022, total petroleum product consumption reached 11.9 million tons, a 6% increase compared to 2021.

Diesel: 5.835 million tons (49%)

Butane: 2.77 million tons (23%)

Fuel: 1.722 million tons (14%)

Gasoline: 0.687 million tons (6%)

These data reveal the predominance of diesel and butane in national energy consumption.

International Issues and Economic Impacts

Morocco imports its fuels mainly from Saudi Arabia, Spain, the United States, Russia, and Italy. Despite a recent drop in the price of diesel to 12 DH per liter, the country remains among the five African countries with the highest gasoline prices. This situation contrasts with much lower prices in Libya ($0.031) and Egypt ($0.289). Furthermore, Morocco has resources estimated at 53.381 billion barrels of oil shale, representing strategic energy potential for the future.

Although full recovery still requires time and vigilance, the Moroccan oil sector is showing promising signs of recovery, raising hopes for a more stable and resilient future for this key sector of the Moroccan economy.