The Moroccan market for automotive parts is one of the most dynamic in the Kingdom. With an automobile fleet of more than 4 million vehicles and a booming automotive industry (Renault, Stellantis), demand for spare parts and accessories is constantly growing. Importers, wholesalers and garages source from all over the world — EU, China, Turkey, UAE. But importing auto parts to Morocco follows specific rules: precise HS code, conformity standards, prohibition of used parts on certain equipment. This guide gives you all the keys to successfully launch your import project.
The Moroccan auto parts market in figures
The Moroccan automotive aftermarket sector represents several billion dirhams per year. Some key data:
- Over 4 million vehicles in circulation, of which 60% are over 10 years old (high demand for replacement parts).
- Local automotive industry: Renault Tangier, Stellantis Kenitra, more than 200 equipment makers established in Morocco.
- Accessories market growing (~15% per year): tires, batteries, lubricants, embedded electronics.
- Main import sources: Spain, France, Italy, China, Turkey, United Arab Emirates.
- Strong demand on parts: braking, clutch, engine, electrical, suspension, optics.
Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier and Marrakech are the main auto parts distribution hubs. The port of Casablanca remains the main hub for FCL container imports.
Where to source your auto parts? Top 5 sources
| Source | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Spain / France / Italy (EU) | Quality, EUR.1, short delay, CE standards | Higher prices |
| China | Very competitive prices, wide range | Variable quality, checks needed |
| Turkey | Good quality-price, Morocco-Turkey free trade agreement | Maritime delays |
| United Arab Emirates | Re-export hub, world brands available | Intermediary fees |
| Germany | OEM quality, premium brands | High cost |
For premium brand parts (Bosch, Brembo, Valeo, ZF, Mahle...), prefer official distributors in Europe. For generic parts (filters, brake pads, bulbs...), China and Turkey offer good quality-price compromises.
Regulation: new vs used, OEM vs aftermarket
Importing auto parts to Morocco follows strict rules according to the type of product:
New parts (allowed)
Importing new spare parts is free, subject to compliance standards, the correct HS code and any certifications. No general quantitative or qualitative restriction.
Used parts (highly restricted)
Importing used auto parts is strictly regulated and often prohibited in Morocco, for road safety reasons and protection of local industry. Notably prohibited:
- Used engines and gearboxes
- Used airbags and safety systems
- Used brake pads and discs
- Retreaded tires (except some categories for industrial vehicles)
- Used electronic equipment (computers, ABS...)
Some non-critical parts (bodywork, optics, trim...) may be tolerated used under conditions. But generally, prefer new to avoid any customs problem.
OEM vs aftermarket
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts and aftermarket parts from recognized brands are perfectly importable. Avoid counterfeits: Moroccan customs and OMPIC (Moroccan Industrial Property Office) conduct regular controls. Counterfeit parts are seized and destroyed, with fines for the importer.
Main HS codes for auto parts
Automotive parts mainly fall under chapter 87 of the Moroccan customs tariff, but also chapters 40 (rubber), 70 (glass), 84 (machines), 85 (electrical). Here are the most used HS codes:
| Type of part | HS code | Standard DI |
|---|---|---|
| New tires (passenger cars) | 4011.10 | 17.5% |
| Brake pads | 6813.81 | 2.5% |
| Air, oil, fuel filters | 8421.23 / 8421.31 | 2.5% |
| Spark plugs | 8511.10 | 2.5% |
| Storage batteries | 8507.10 | 17.5% |
| Headlights and lamps | 8512.20 | 17.5% |
| Bumpers and bodywork | 8708.10 | 17.5% |
| Braking systems | 8708.30 | 17.5% |
| Clutches | 8708.93 | 17.5% |
| Other parts (engine, transmission) | 8708.99 | 17.5% |
For parts imported from EU with EUR.1 certificate, customs duties are generally reduced to 0% or 2.5%, representing major savings on bulk operations. See our complete HS code guide for more details.
Customs clearance and best practices
To successfully clear your auto parts in Morocco, here are our recommendations from 15+ years of experience:
- Prepare a complete documentary file: detailed invoice item by item, precise packing list, EUR.1 certificate if EU, B/L, import commitment.
- Classify each reference under its exact HS code: a wrong code can trigger a costly reassessment.
- Verify certifications: for tires, batteries and certain electrical equipment, conformity certifications (NM, CE) may be required.
- Avoid counterfeiting: buy from official wholesalers and keep proof of authenticity (certificates, manufacturer invoices).
- Optimize your volumes: a well-filled 40' container largely amortizes fixed costs (transport, clearance, broker).
- Work with a licensed customs broker specialized in automotive: they know HS codes, authorizations, and can negotiate the best freight rates.
🚛 Our expertise
Our firm, ADII-licensed for over 15 years, supports several auto parts wholesalers in Morocco. We process an average of 200+ containers per year in this sector, with deep expertise in specific HS codes and customs subtleties. Request a free customized quote.