Morocco’s road freight transport professionals are sounding the alarm over the planned nationwide adoption of digital tachographs, warning that without financial support or proper training, the measure could push many companies to the brink.
The digital tachograph, an advanced device that records driving time, speed, and rest periods, is set to replace traditional manual systems under the Ministry of Transport and Logistics’ modernization efforts.
However, industry representatives are calling on the government to make these devices available at symbolic prices, particularly for older trucks that still dominate Morocco’s fleet.
Several professional bodies criticized the Ministry’s reliance on Turkish firms to supply and implement the system, raising concerns about compatibility and cost-effectiveness.
Many of the vehicles operating in the sector date back to the 1980s, and representatives argue it is impractical to install expensive sixth- or seventh-generation tachographs in such outdated vehicles unless the government heavily subsidizes the rollout.
“The sector is already under immense pressure,” said Mubarak Safi, a key figure among transport professionals. “The cost of these devices should not exceed 500 to 1,000 dirhams if we want to ensure a smooth transition. Otherwise, we risk bankrupting even more companies.”
Safi and other sector voices pointed out that most transport operators and inspectors still haven’t fully mastered the use of existing manual tachographs due to a lack of training and support.
Implementing a sophisticated digital system without addressing these gaps could result in confusion, inefficiency, and even legal risks.
Moreover, professionals say promised reforms, including the provision of driver rest areas, enforcement against overloading, formalization of mid-size truck operations (3.5–19 tons), and clarification of licensing requirements, have largely failed to materialize.
The groups also noted that current enforcement of tachograph regulations remains weak, particularly in contrast to the strict standards applied in the European Union regarding driver rest times and vehicle monitoring.
In essence, Morocco’s freight industry is calling not just for technological upgrades, but for a more comprehensive support framework, one that ensures affordability, practicality, and genuine reform, rather than merely shifting the financial and operational burden onto an already strained sector.
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