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Morocco Competition Authority Opens Antitrust Probe Into Luxury Beauty Market

By  |  May 7, 2026
Europe, tariffs, travel, luxury, retail

Morocco’s Competition Council has opened an antitrust investigation into the country’s luxury fragrance and cosmetics sector after identifying potential anti-competitive practices among distributors of major international beauty brands, according to a statement issued by the regulator.

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    The inquiry was initially triggered by a complaint filed by a company operating in the sector. However, the scope of the investigation was later expanded as authorities began examining the overall structure of Morocco’s premium beauty market, which relies heavily on exclusive distribution arrangements, according to a statement from the Competition Council.

    Regulators said many high-end fragrance and cosmetics brands in Morocco are distributed through selective sales networks, where only approved retailers are authorized to carry certain products. Per a statement from the authority, investigators have identified indications that some distributors may have used these systems to favor specific retailers while restricting access for others.

    The Competition Council said the investigation also raised concerns that some distributors may have required retailers to purchase additional unwanted products in order to secure access to sought-after brands. Authorities further suspect that some operators may have discouraged discounting and other competitive pricing practices.

    In addition, the council pointed to what it described as possible “price police” practices, referring to informal mechanisms allegedly used to monitor retail pricing and maintain price consistency across outlets, per a statement from the authority.

    Rather than move directly toward sanctions, the companies under scrutiny were invited to participate in a legal settlement process. The businesses have since submitted proposed corrective measures aimed at addressing the regulator’s concerns, according to a statement by the Competition Council.

    The proposed commitments include separating wholesale distribution activities from retail operations, implementing more transparent and balanced contractual arrangements with retailers, ensuring equal access to strategically important products, and ending any direct or indirect influence over resale pricing.

    The Competition Council has now launched a 30-day public consultation process, which will remain open until June 8, before making a final decision on whether to approve the proposed commitments.

    Source: Barlaman Today