Morocco's Administration of Customs and Indirect Taxes (ADII) has launched a major investigation into the management of industrial waste generated from goods imported under the "temporary admission" regime. This regime allows companies to import materials for processing or assembly without paying duties, provided the resulting products or waste are re-exported.
The investigation, confirmed by customs officials, focuses on verifying whether companies are properly re-exporting the industrial waste or by-products as required by law. Authorities suspect that significant quantities of this waste are being illegally disposed of or sold on the local market, constituting customs fraud and a major environmental risk.
Preliminary estimates cited by the ADII suggest the potential financial loss to the state treasury could amount to several billion Moroccan dirhams. The operation involves extensive field audits and cross-referencing import declarations with waste management documentation from companies, particularly in industrial zones.
This crackdown is part of a broader effort to combat customs fraud and strengthen environmental compliance. The ADII has warned that companies found in violation face severe penalties, including back payment of evaded duties, fines, and potential legal prosecution.
