Morocco inflation climbs to 1.7% on rising transport, fuel costs

On May 22, 2026

Morocco recorded a sharp rise in inflation in April as higher fuel and transport costs linked to tensions in the Middle East pushed consumer prices upward, adding fresh pressure on household spending despite continued government efforts to contain living costs.

Data released on Friday by Morocco’s statistics agency showed annual inflation accelerated to 1.7 percent in April from 0.9 percent in March, driven largely by rising transport costs and higher prices for non-food goods and services.

Transport prices surged 8.4 percent from a year earlier following increases in global fuel prices tied to the conflict in the Middle East, highlighting how geopolitical instability is increasingly feeding into domestic economies across North Africa.

Food prices, a key concern for Moroccan households, rose modestly by 0.6 percent year on year, while non-food prices climbed 2.5 percent, according to the agency.

The figures suggest that while overall inflation remains relatively moderate compared with previous spikes seen across many emerging economies, external shocks continue to pose risks to price stability.

Core inflation, which strips out volatile items and government-controlled prices, fell 0.3 percent from a year earlier and edged up 0.1 percent on a monthly basis, indicating that underlying inflationary pressures remain contained for now.

The Moroccan government is moving to shield consumers from the fallout of rising global energy costs and geopolitical tensions.

Authorities said they plan to inject an additional 20 billion dirhams, equivalent to about $2.17 billion, into the 2026 budget to help stabilise the prices of public transport, cooking gas, and electricity.

Officials say the extra spending is aimed at protecting purchasing power and preventing a broader rise in living costs at a time when volatility in global energy markets is creating uncertainty for import-dependent economies.

The latest inflation figures come as governments across Africa and the Middle East grapple with the economic consequences of conflict-driven commodity price increases, particularly in fuel and energy markets.

Analysts say Morocco’s relatively contained inflation rate gives policymakers some room to manage external shocks, though sustained increases in oil prices could place further strain on public finances and household budgets in the months ahead.

Faith Omoboye

Faith Omoboye is a foreign affairs correspondent with background in History and International relations. Her work focuses on African politics, diplomacy, and global governance.

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