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As part of monitoring the competitive functioning of national markets, preliminary investigations conducted by the competent services of the Competition Council have revealed elements indicating that certain café owners and managers are considering a possible increase in the prices of beverages served in cafes. This information has been reported by several press sources.
In this regard, the Competition Council recalls that, in accordance with the provisions of Law 104.12 on price freedom and competition as amended and supplemented, the setting of prices for products and services is determined by the operation of free competition, except in cases specified, on a limited basis, by said law.
It should be noted that the aforementioned Law 104.12 prohibits concerted actions, agreements, explicit or implicit agreements or coalitions, regardless of their form or cause, when they aim to prevent, restrict, or distort competition in a market, particularly when they seek to obstruct price formation through market forces by artificially promoting their increase or decrease. Consequently, professionals or their organizations are not allowed to discuss any issue directly or indirectly related to prices or applicable profit margins, or to set them.
In light of the above, if the aforementioned facts are confirmed, the Competition Council will proceed with opening an investigation into this matter and will take all legal measures and actions within its purview, in accordance with its constitutional and legislative missions and powers.
Rabat, April 30, 2024
