Importing from USA to Morocco 2026: Free Trade Agreement & Freight

The American Dream within container reach

Importing from the United States to Morocco represents one of the most lucrative commercial opportunities for Moroccan entrepreneurs in 2026. Thanks to the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) — the only agreement of this type between the USA and an African country — tariff barriers are almost non-existent for a multitude of products.

Whether you target high-tech, dietary supplements, or used vehicles, this guide dissects the new logistics and customs realities of this pivotal year.

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USA(NY/Savannah/Houston)

Fret Maritime

East: 14-20d / West: 35d+

Fret Aérien

Air Cargo: 2-8 Days

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Morocco(Tangier/Casa)

🇺🇸 The Morocco-USA Free Trade Agreement (FTA): The Privilege of 0%

The Free Trade Agreement (FTA), in force since 2006, remains the central pillar of USA-Morocco import. In 2026, this agreement allows total exemption from Import Duties (DI) for more than 95% of industrial and consumer products originating from the United States. Unlike imports from China or Turkey, a "Made in USA" product can enter Moroccan territory with a 0% customs rate, provided origin rules are respected.

The 35% Value Added Rule

To benefit from the FTA, the product does not necessarily have to be composed of 100% American raw materials. It is sufficient that the cost of components produced in the USA, added to the direct processing cost, represents at least 35% of the total value of the product.

Concrete example: A computer assembled in California with international components can be considered as originating from the USA if the value added on American soil respects this threshold. This radically changes the game for the electronics sector.

⚓ The Direct Transport Rule: The Trap to Avoid Absolutely

This is where many novice importers fail. The FTA stipulates a non-negotiable condition: the Direct Transport Rule. For the customs duty exemption to be applicable, the goods must travel directly from the United States to Morocco.

If your container stops over in a European port (like Algeciras or Valencia) and is unloaded or handled outside customs supervision, the FTA benefit is lost. Moroccan customs will then demand the full rate (often 40% for certain items).

👉 Solution 2026: Prioritize direct shipping lines connecting the East Coast (New York/Savannah) to Tangier Med or Casablanca port. If transit is necessary, request a "Non-Manipulation Certificate" from the customs authorities of the transit country.

📱 Tech Import 2026: Smartphones and Laptops at Reduced Rate

The 2026 Finance Law introduced a major reform for the technology sector. The import duty on mobile phones and smartphones has been reduced from 17.5% to only 2.5%. This drop, combined with FTA advantages for American products, makes the USA the preferred hub for brands like Apple (iPhone) or Google (Pixel).

The Role of ANRT

Despite the tax cuts, approval by the National Telecommunications Regulatory Agency (ANRT) remains mandatory for any device emitting waves (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, 5G).
Casa Horizon Tip: Check if the exact model (serial number/version) is already listed in the ANRT approved equipment database to speed up customs clearance.

💊 The Health Sector: Supplements and DMP

The United States is the world leader in nutritional supplements and parapharmacy. However, importing these products into Morocco is strictly regulated by ONSSA (for food products) and the Directorate of Medicines and Pharmacy (DMP) for health products.

In 2026, the focus is on traceability. Each batch must be accompanied by a Free Sale Certificate and a Certificate of Analysis. VAT on certain health products has also been adjusted to promote accessibility.

Unique Insight: Clean Label

The Moroccan market is increasingly fond of US "Clean Label". Importing Organic or Non-GMO certified vitamins from the USA offers a huge competitive advantage over low-end products.

🏎️ USA Vehicles: Copart Auctions and Homologation

Importing cars from the USA (via Copart, Manheim or IAAI) is a strong trend in 2026. However, American standards (FMVSS) differ from European standards accepted in Morocco.

The 5-Year Rule: The rule remains strict. No vehicle older than 5 years can be imported (excluding MRE regime).
Homologation: American cars often require minor modifications (signal lights, km/h counters) to obtain the Individual Approval Report (RTI).
Taxes: If the vehicle is 100% electric (e.g., Tesla Made in USA), you combine 0% customs (FTA) and 0% VAT (2026 Measure).

Agrandir 🔍

📦 US Sourcing: Where to find the best suppliers?

Amazon Business & eBay

Ideal for small structures or product testing (dropshipping or micro-import).

Thomasnet

The American "Alibaba" for the industrial sector and machine tools.

Trade Shows

CES Las Vegas (Tech) or Natural Products Expo (Health) are must-attends.

Unique Insight: Consolidation

Many US suppliers hesitate to export to Africa for fear of fraud. Using a consolidation address in the USA (via a partner like Casa Horizon) reassures your suppliers.

✈️ Transatlantic Logistics: Air vs Sea Freight

The choice of transport mode depends on the value and urgency of your goods. Note: Departures from the East Coast (New Jersey, Florida) are much faster than those from the West Coast (California).

Mode	Delay 2026	Ideal Use
Air Freight (Express)	2 to 4 days	Electronics, Luxury
Air Freight (Cargo)	5 to 8 days	Pharma, Auto Parts
Sea Freight (LCL)	20 to 30 days	Tools, Textiles
Sea Freight (FCL)	14 to 20 days	Vehicles, Bulk

Agrandir 🔍

💰 Calculating Landing Cost in the USA

Don't just rely on the purchase price in Dollars (USD). To calculate your profitability, use the following formula:

Landing Cost = Purchase Price (FOB) + Freight + Insurance + Customs Duties (if outside FTA) + VAT (20%) + Freight Forwarder Fees + Parafiscal Taxes

In 2026, don't forget to include PortNet filing fees and potential expertise fees for products subject to compliance control (NM standards).

🔗 The PortNet System and Customs Blockchain 2026

Morocco reached a historic milestone in 2026 with the integration of Blockchain into the PortNet system. This allows total transparency on the origin of goods.

Importer Advantage: The US certificate of origin can now be transmitted digitally and securely, reducing risks of contestation by customs administration.
Simplification: The "Green" circuit (automatic release) is now more accessible to companies with Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) status.

💵 Exchange Regulation: Paying Suppliers in USD

Invoice payment to the United States is governed by the Exchange Office. In 2026, companies can pay by international bank transfer (SWIFT) upon presentation of the proforma invoice and import title.

Mind the Exchange Rate

The MAD/USD exchange rate can be volatile. Use hedging instruments (forward contracts) to fix your purchase cost and avoid bad surprises at final payment.

📋 Documentary Checklist: The 7 Indispensable Items

Commercial Invoice: Detailed, in English or French, mentioning the Incoterm.

Packing List: Precise packing list.

Bill of Lading (B/L) or AWB: Transport title.

FTA Certificate of Origin: To benefit from 0%.

Import Title: Subscribed on PortNet.

Certificate of Conformity (CoC): If required for the product.

Insurance Certificate: Mandatory for customs clearance.

Fatal Errors in US Import

Samples and Small Parcels Management: Do not underestimate customs even for small samples sent by FedEx/DHL. They must also be cleared.

🖼️ Visual Concepts (Infographics)

1. The Morocco-USA FTA Journey

A visual funnel showing success conditions: 35% Origin -> Direct Transport -> Compliant Certificate -> 0% Rate.

2. Air vs Sea Comparison 2026

A scale comparing cost and time for a 500kg batch of smartphones vs a container of machines.

Casa Horizon Expertise for your USA Imports

Importing from the USA to Morocco in 2026 is no longer reserved for large multinationals. Thanks to the digitalization of procedures and historic tax advantages, Moroccan entrepreneurs can now source high-quality products at ultra-competitive prices. The commercial "American Dream" is within reach, provided one masters the subtleties of direct transport and regulatory compliance.

By choosing Casa Horizon as a partner, you secure each step of your supply chain, from Silicon Valley to your warehouse in Casablanca.

✅ Quick Takeaways: Essentials in 1 minute

FTA = 0%

On almost everything, but check origin (35% VA).

Transport

Direct is king. Avoid uncontrolled stopovers in Europe.

Tech 2026

Taxes reduced to 2.5% on smartphones, a boon for US brands.

Payment

Manage your MAD/USD exchange risk with your bank.

Support

An expert freight forwarder like Casa Horizon is essential to navigate between PortNet and ANRT/ONSSA.

FAQ: Import USA

Can I import US products via a warehouse in France?

Yes, but you will likely lose the benefit of the FTA (0% customs) because the direct transport rule will not be respected, unless the goods remain under strict customs supervision (in a free zone).

Must the certificate of origin be visaed by US customs?

For the Morocco-USA FTA, an invoice declaration or a certificate of origin established by the exporter is often sufficient, unlike other more rigid agreements.

What are the hidden costs of US import?

Beware of "Demurrage" fees if your container remains stuck at Casablanca port, as well as conformity inspection fees for NM products.

Is it more profitable to import by air or sea?

For high value-added products (tech, luxury), air is preferable as it reduces working capital needs. For bulk, sea remains unbeatable.

How to check if my product is eligible for FTA?

Consult the Moroccan customs portal (ADII) or ask Casa Horizon to verify your product's HS code.