Morocco Introduces 5757 Hotline to Address Ramadan Market Concerns

Morocco has initiated a consumer hotline, 5757, for grievances during Ramadan, responding to concerns about rising food prices for essential Iftar items. The hotline allows citizens to report issues related to market practices and fraud while seeking to ensure product availability. Despite government efforts, concerns about price increases persist, particularly in the fish market, prompting discussions about the structure of pricing and supply chains. The initiative aims to protect consumers amidst Ramadan’s unique economic landscape.

As Ramadan begins, Morocco has launched its national hotline, 5757, for addressing consumer grievances and observations during this holy month. This initiative arises in response to surging concerns over food prices, notably on essential Iftar items widely consumed across the nation. The hotline will facilitate communication around issues of market supply, price fluctuations, product quality, safety, and fraudulent activities, promoting consumer protection.

This national hotline enables Moroccans, regardless of their location, to report complaints about market practices through fixed or mobile devices. Each call made to this hotline during Ramadan, open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, will be charged at standard landline rates without any extra fees. This measure follows the Interministerial Commission for Market Supply and Price Monitoring meeting held on February 4, aimed at bolstering consumer rights and market control.

Authorities are working diligently to ensure the availability of essential food products, which traditionally see escalated demand during Ramadan. Despite government assurances, concerns persist among Moroccan families regarding potential price increases associated with the holy month. Vendors in souks and supermarkets offer a range of products necessary for Iftar, though rising prices prompt calls for enhanced regulatory measures against excessive speculation.

The onset of Ramadan has sparked discussions about fish prices, especially sardines, highlighted by an incident involving a fishmonger in Marrakech. Selling sardines at MAD 5 per kilogram has raised questions about the disparity in prices between regions, as the same product fetches between MAD 15 and 20 in coastal cities. Experts indicate that intermediaries significantly inflate fish prices from the port to the consumer, raising concerns about the fishing industry’s efficiency and sustainability.

This year, sardine availability has been impacted by climate change and overfishing, leading to a recent biological rest in southern fisheries meant to allow fish populations to recover. Ramadan also presents opportunities for seasonal vendors to thrive, particularly traditional pastry sellers and date merchants, during this culturally significant period.

The government remains committed to overseeing market activities to combat fraud, monopolies, and price speculation, thus safeguarding consumers’ financial stability throughout Ramadan. As Moroccans navigate culinary traditions amid economic challenges, the hotline serves as a vital tool in addressing their concerns effectively.

The Moroccan government has implemented the 5757 hotline to address consumer concerns during Ramadan amidst rising food prices, particularly on essential Iftar items. With a focus on market integrity and consumer protection, the authorities aim to regulate prices and combat fraud. The ongoing challenges related to price increases and supply concerns reflect the complexities of balancing tradition with economic realities during this sacred month.

Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com