A recent report by the Sunergia Group has shed light on the challenges faced by Moroccans due to the soaring prices of butane gas cylinders. The survey found that 62% of respondents are struggling with the price hikes, with 48% deeming the situation intolerable.
Rural residents and those from disadvantaged backgrounds are particularly hard hit, with 71% and 90% respectively finding the price increases unbearable. Despite this, 28% of respondents consider the price hike bearable.
Interestingly, 40% of Moroccans have already reduced their gas consumption in response to the rising prices, with younger individuals and lower socioeconomic groups leading the trend. However, 56% have not altered their habits.
Looking ahead, 46% of Moroccans are unaware of potential future price increases, while 54% are cognizant of the possibility. To address the issue, the government plans to allocate MAD 16.5 billion to the subsidy fund for essential goods in the coming year.
Economic experts stress the importance of maintaining subsidies on essential goods to protect vulnerable groups and ensure social and economic stability in Morocco.