Cafés and consumer rights: Federation clarifies amid controversy
A recent controversy has stirred public debate in Morocco after reports surfaced of cafés in major cities and tourist areas asking customers to renew their orders after one or two hours, or even limiting the time they can remain seated.
Traditionally, cafés have been more than just places to enjoy drinks. They now serve as workspaces for students, freelancers, and remote employees seeking an affordable and quiet environment. However, complaints from consumers denouncing what they see as “abusive practices” have sparked anger online. Many accused certain establishments of trying to maximize profits at the expense of customer comfort.
The controversy intensified when a photo from a café in Larache showed a sign stating that clients could not stay longer than 15 minutes due to high demand.
Noureddine El Harrak, president of the National Federation of Café and Restaurant Owners (FNPCR), explained that this was an isolated incident. He emphasized that no official decision authorizes such measures and that the federation firmly rejects any rule forcing clients to consume more based on the time they spend. According to him, the real challenges facing the sector are structural, linked to taxes and fixed costs, not to customer behavior.
Consumer rights experts also weighed in. Hassan Aït Ali, president of the Moroccan Observatory for Consumer Protection, reminded that cafés and restaurants may set internal rules such as minimum consumption or time limits, but these must be clearly displayed. Forcing clients to renew consumption without prior notice could be deemed abusive and in violation of consumer protection law 31-08.
Customers, he explained, have recourse: they can request explanations from managers, report abuses to local authorities, or alert the observatory, which can escalate the case. Ultimately, Moroccan law guarantees consumers the right to fair and transparent practices in all commercial establishments.
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