Morocco tightens controls on copper alloy exports for two years

Morocco has moved to tighten controls on exports of copper alloy ingots,requiring prior authorization for overseas shipments under new rules aimed at safeguarding domestic supply and curbing market distortions.

An order published in the official gazette on May 7 adds copper alloy ingots to the list of goods subject to quantitative export restrictions,amending a regulatory framework dating back to 1994.

The measure,signed by the industry and trade minister,will remain in force for 24 months through May 2028.

Under the new regime,Moroccan exporters must obtain government approval before shipping the products abroad. The alloys,typically made from copper and zinc such as brass,are widely used in sectors including electrical equipment,precision engineering,plumbing and jewelry.

The move comes amid a tightening global market for non-ferrous metals,particularly copper,which plays a critical role in energy transition technologies such as electric vehicles,renewable power systems and charging infrastructure.