In a significant move to safeguard its domestic market, Morocco's Ministry of Industry and Trade has initiated a preventive investigation into the imports of ceramic tiles from India, effective immediately. This investigation is aimed at scrutinizing potential dumping practices that could adversely affect local producers and disrupt the equilibrium of the national market. The decision to probe follows a formal complaint lodged by the Professional Association of Ceramic Industries (APIC), which represents major Moroccan manufacturers such as Super Cerame, Multicerame, and Ghorghiz Cerame. Collectively, these companies contribute to approximately 72% of the nation's ceramic production, highlighting their vital role in the industry.
The ministry's inquiry is rooted in evidence indicating that Indian exporters are allegedly selling ceramic tiles in Morocco at prices significantly lower than their normal market value in India. This practice, known as dumping under international trade regulations, can grant foreign products an undue competitive edge, potentially undermining local businesses. Preliminary analysis conducted by the ministry juxtaposes the factory-level domestic prices of ceramic tiles in India with the export prices directed towards Morocco for the year 2025. These initial findings reveal a dumping margin exceeding the 2% threshold, which is sufficient to warrant a formal investigation.
Furthermore, the ministry has observed a notable surge in the importation of Indian ceramic tiles from 2021 to mid-2025, both in terms of volume and overall market share. Local producers have expressed concerns that this influx is exerting considerable pressure on their financial stability and disrupting the balance of the market. The scope of the investigation encompasses various types of ceramic tiles utilized for floors, walls, and other surfaces, applicable for both indoor and outdoor settings. The process will entail gathering comprehensive data from Indian exporters, Moroccan importers, and domestic producers to ascertain the extent of the issue.
Stakeholders interested in contributing to the investigation have until May 30 to register and submit their comments. The ministry has indicated that if urgent harm is substantiated, it may impose temporary measures. Should the investigation confirm dumping activities, there could be potential for the implementation of permanent anti-dumping duties to protect the interests of local manufacturers.
As reported by moroccoworldnews.com.
