Since the year 808, date the first Moroccan customs structures were established, a secular history of the Customs and Excise administration which is written.
The origins of Customs in Morocco
Starting in the late ninth century, the Idrissids established the initial structures of a customs system that later the Almoravides then the Almohades improved as the Moroccan customs territory expended during the eleventh and twelfth centuries.
The Alawites Sultans will also introduce a series of customs regulation measures. Several reforms, including the custom’s oumana original system and the revitalisation of the customs activity through liberalisation of Moroccan ports, will emerge during their reign.
The customs regime of the Protectorate
The Algeciras act establishes the Moroccan customs status under the protectorate
Concluded in 1906, the Algeciras Act established economic equality between the powers, and officially opened Morocco to international trade.
The modern Customs status has experienced major phases
The customs system evolved from the Oumanas regime to modern system of State customs and tax management.
New goods customs clearance procedures were established under the protectorate
New customs procedures were established to develop commercial transactions, activate the progressive industrialization of Morocco and adapt to the new requirements of economic liberalism and modernity as prevailed in the early twentieth century.
Customs in the aftermath of independence
The evolution of the customs system in independent Morocco was motivated by the country's willingness to assert its sovereignty both inside and outside of the country, and the need to develop its economy, namely through fiscal reforms.
Customs today
To adapt to globalization of international trade, in the 80s the Customs administration launched a comprehensive reform program, aiming at supporting Moroccan businesses and opening out to foreign investors.
This continuous reform process was implemented by :
- The reorganization of the administration's structures
- The modernization of its infrastructure
- A redefinition of its legislation in consultation with Moroccan economic stakeholders
- The simplification of its information system
- Partnership strengthening with economic operators
- The conclusion of numerous agreements and conventions as part of regional and international cooperation
Today, we begin a new era, that of electronic customs
Prepared and published by the Customs Administration in 2001, the book "Customs throughout history" (La Douane à travers l’histoire), looks into the past of a secular institution that has been able, over time, to adapt to its environment and establish itself as a major player at both national and international level.
We invite you to discover this book by visiting its dedicated website.
