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Addressing the Escalating Costs of Red Meat: Evaluating Government Interventions to Alleviate Consumer Strain
The cost of red meat in Morocco has surged in recent weeks, causing growing concern among consumers. Experts attribute this inflation to the current economic climate, characterized by widespread cost increases and exacerbated by drought conditions impacting supply.
With beef prices exceeding 90 dirhams per kilo, households, already grappling with inflation, are feeling the strain on their budgets. Consequently, many Moroccans are compelled to cut back on their red meat consumption.
Mustapha Belfkih, Treasurer of the Interprofessional Federation of Red Meats (FIVIAR), reported a significant 70% drop in consumption levels, even during the typically high-demand holiday season. He pointed to the deteriorating purchasing power of citizens as the primary driver behind this decline.
However, some argue that the reported price hikes have been exaggerated. Specialist Mustapha Belfkih suggested that the average kilo now sells for around 70 dirhams, deeming the increase "normal and justified" in light of economic challenges such as drought affecting livestock feed supplies. While acknowledging regional variations in prices based on cut and quality, he clarified that claims of kilos priced at 95 dirhams and above pertain only to premium cuts.
Nonetheless, Belfkih acknowledged that the sector has faced challenging conditions for over three years. Alongside pressures from drought on grazing lands, the industry grapples with soaring imported feed costs, and concerns about profiteering undermining stability.
To address these challenges, the government has implemented measures, including a substantial increase of nearly 400% in live animal imports year-over-year. Subsidies for purebred cattle breeders and a VAT exemption on animal feed have also been introduced to bolster support.
It remains to be seen whether these interventions will effectively alleviate consumer pressures arising from the upward trajectory of red meat prices during this period of inflation. With household budgets stretched thin and vulnerabilities in the supply chain exposed, the government faces high stakes in curbing costs and stabilizing this crucial agricultural industry.