فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
In an official statement, Fouzi Lekjaa, the Minister Delegate in Charge of the Budget, highlighted the government’s efforts to address the public health impacts of tobacco consumption and combat smuggling associated with these products. Lekjaa emphasized the national consensus among Moroccans regarding the health hazards posed by all types of cigarettes, noting that the government is fully aware of the severe societal and individual implications of this issue.
The minister explained that Morocco’s fiscal policy on tobacco revolves around the gradual and consistent increase in taxes. This strategy has included extending tax obligations to all types of tobacco products, even those previously outside the taxation system, ensuring a uniform tax approach. These measures aim not only to reduce tobacco consumption but also to combat the pervasive issue of smuggling, which remains a significant challenge in the sector.
Lekjaa elaborated on the government’s comprehensive strategy, which includes the use of “marking” technology to effectively track products and curb smuggling. He stressed that smuggled tobacco poses an even greater health risk to consumers, often being more harmful than legally authorized products. The government, he said, is continually improving these policies to adapt to market changes and ensure the protection of public health.
The minister acknowledged that increasing taxes on cigarettes alone cannot fully address the issue. Overly aggressive tax hikes could inadvertently fuel the black market and increase the prevalence of smuggled products, exacerbating the problem instead of resolving it. Thus, the government seeks a balance between reducing tobacco consumption and protecting consumers from unregulated, illegal products.
Concluding his address, Lekjaa reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening tax policies and implementing anti-smuggling measures while emphasizing public awareness about the dangers of smoking. He underscored that these integrated efforts represent a crucial step toward mitigating health risks and ensuring the stability of both the market and the national economy.
source : fesnews media
