Rabat – The importation of non-hazardous waste into Morocco is subject to rigorous administrative procedures, confirmed Morocco’s Energy Transition Minister Leila Benali. A total of 416 import authorizations have been issued since 2016, she revealed during Monday’s oral questioning session at the House of Representatives.

Responding to a question concerning the environmental and health impacts of importing waste, Minister Benali clarified that her department grants three types of waste import authorizations, while others are issued by the Ministry of Industry and Trade. The requests for these authorizations come from national industrial companies seeking raw materials and energy resources.”

The minister highlighted that the importation process, mainly consisting of used tires, plastics, and textiles, is closely monitored under the Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and Their Disposal, which Morocco has ratified. The discussion also touched upon broader topics such
as the circular economy and waste recycling.

“The circular economy is a key pillar of Morocco’s national sustainable development strategy,” the Moroccan official emphasized, stressing that this strategy has been shaped by large-scale consultations at regional and territorial levels. Additionally, Benali urged Moroccan companies involved in this sector to adhere to energy efficiency and environmental protection standards.

Source: Agence Marocaine De Presse