This article explains Moroccan corporate tax using updated figures as of early 2025.
Understanding Moroccan Corporate Tax
Morocco uses a territorial tax system.
Both resident and nonresident companies pay tax on income earned in Morocco.
If your company has a permanent establishment here, the Moroccan tax rules apply.
Foreign investors benefit from several incentives and special regimes. Ask yourself: How do these rules affect your investment decisions?
Updates Corporate Tax Rates
Moroccan corporate tax is set on a progressive scale.
The Finance Law 2023 introduced phased changes for companies with fiscal years starting from 2023.
Below is the schedule for standard corporate income tax rates:
For Taxable income up to MAD 300,000:
- 2023: 10%
- 2024: 12.5%
- 2025: 15%
- 2026: 17.5% (target 20%)
For Taxable income between MAD 300,001 and MAD 1,000,000:
- Consistently 20% from 2023 to 2026
For Taxable income between MAD 1,000,001 and MAD 100,000,000:
- 2023: 31%
- 2024: 28.5%
- 2025: 25.5%
- 2026: 22.75%
For Taxable income above 100,000,000:
- 2023: 32%
- 2024: 33%
- 2025: 34%
- 2026: 35%
Special sectors have different rates:
- Industrial companies: May benefit from a reduced marginal rate (for example, a reduction to around 26% for net profits under MAD 100 million in some cases).
- Credit institutions, leasing companies, and banks: Are taxed at higher rates that gradually move from 37% in 2023 to approximately 39.25% in 2026 (with a target of 40%).
- Opt-in tax for contractors: Companies in engineering, construction, or assembly projects may elect to be taxed at 8% on the total contract price (net of VAT).
These figures reflect recent changes from the Finance Law 2023
Ask: Do these rates align with your business’s profit projections? But, if you are a foreign investor, there are some tax benefits that you should check.
Social Solidarity Contribution (SSC)
On top of corporate income tax, companies with taxable income above MAD 1 million must pay SSC.
SSC rates are as follows:
- 1.5% for income from MAD 1 million to MAD 5 million
- 2.5% for income from MAD 5 million to MAD 10 million
- 3.5% for income from MAD 10 million to MAD 40 million
- 5% for income above MAD 40 million
This additional contribution helps fund social programs and must be factored into your overall tax planning.
Allowable Deductions and Depreciation
Deductions reduce your taxable income.
Common deductions include:
Depreciation
Fixed assets are depreciated over their useful life.
You can use the straight-line method or a declining-balance method.
Indicative annual rates:
- Buildings: Approximately 4–5%
- Production equipment and tools: 10–15%
- Vehicles and office equipment: 20–25%
Good record keeping is essential for claiming depreciation.
Interest Expenses
Interest on loans used for business activities is deductible if the capital is fully paid up.
Deductibility is capped by both the share capital amount and the official annual interest rate set by the Ministry of Finance.
Review your financing structure to maximize this deduction.
Bad Debts
Debts that are definitively non-recoverable are deductible.
You must document all collection efforts before claiming the deduction.
Charitable Contributions
Contributions to approved foundations or societies are deductible.
Contributions to community enterprises are capped at 0.2% of your turnover.
Plan these contributions as part of your social responsibility strategy.
Start-Up Expenses
Expenses for developing and incorporating your company are capitalized and depreciated over five years.
Losses from these start-up costs can be carried forward for four years.
Ensure your early-stage costs are well documented.
Other Deductible Expenses
Regular operating expenses such as rent, salaries, and utilities are deductible.
Maintain proper documentation to support all deductions.
Exemptions and Special Incentives for Foreign Investors
Morocco offers several tax incentives to encourage foreign investment.
New Company Exemptions
New companies may be exempt from business tax for the first five years.
Tourist establishments can enjoy a five-year corporate tax exemption if conditions are met.
This enables reinvestment in growth during early years.
Industrial Acceleration and Free Trade Zones
Companies in designated zones may be exempt from business tax for up to 15 years and receive a reduced corporate tax rate thereafter.
Evaluate if relocating to such zones can lower your tax burden.
Casablanca Finance City (CFC) Regime
Companies with CFC status receive a corporate tax exemption for five years.
After the exemption period, a reduced rate applies.
Determine if your business qualifies for CFC status.
Opt-In Tax for Contractors
Foreign contractors in engineering, construction, or assembly projects may opt for an 8% tax rate (net of VAT).
Compare the standard corporate tax with the 8% option for high-value projects.
Ask: Which incentive best suits your company’s profile?
Tax Losses and Carry forward Rules
Losses from any fiscal year can be carried forward for four years.
Losses related to depreciation may be carried forward indefinitely.
Note: Loss carryback is not permitted.
This policy helps smooth out fluctuating profits over time.
Withholding Taxes and Cross-Border Considerations
Certain payments are subject to withholding tax:
Dividends: Typically 10% for nonresident recipients, unless a treaty reduces the rate.
Interest: Interest paid to nonresidents is usually taxed at 10% (a final tax).
Royalties: Subject to a 10% withholding tax unless reduced by a tax treaty.
In cross-border transactions, ensure you review applicable double taxation treaties to avoid double taxation.
Ask: Have you factored in withholding tax when planning international payments?
Individual Income Tax (Just for Context)
Although this article focuses on corporate tax, individual income tax in Morocco is also progressive:
• Up to MAD 30,000: 0%
• MAD 30,001–50,000: 10%
• MAD 50,001–60,000: 20%
• MAD 60,001–80,000: 30%
• MAD 80,001–180,000: 34%
• Above MAD 180,000: 38%
These rates are useful to understand the overall tax landscape.
Compliance and Filing Requirements
Staying compliant is essential to avoid penalties.
Key filing requirements include:
Filing Deadlines:
- Corporate tax returns must be filed within three months after the fiscal year-end.
- Advance tax payments are made in four equal installments based on the previous year’s tax liability.
Record Keeping:
- Maintain detailed records of all transactions, deductions, and supporting documents.
- Prepare transfer pricing documentation for cross-border related-party transactions.
Penalties:
- Late filings or payments result in fines and interest charges.
- Regular internal audits help ensure compliance.
Does your compliance system meet the latest Moroccan tax requirements?
Your role as a Foreign Investor:
Investing in Morocco means you become part of a growing and stable market.
The tax system is designed to encourage foreign investment with attractive incentives.
Plan your business operations with tax efficiency in mind and stay informed about any regulatory changes.
Integrate these insights into your business plan.