In a landmark decision, a Moroccan appeals court has upheld a staggering 6.3 billion dirham fine against Maroc Telecom, sending shockwaves through the telecom industry. The ruling stems from allegations by Inwi, a prominent competitor, accusing Maroc Telecom of unfair market practices dating back to 2021.
Inwi, under the stewardship of private investment fund Al Mada, challenged Maroc Telecom’s alleged abuse of its dominant market position. The case highlighted claims of hindering competition by restricting access to essential network infrastructure and market segments.
The fine, which exceeds Maroc Telecom’s entire 2023 profit of 6.1 billion dirhams, underscores the severity of the ruling. Maroc Telecom, majority-owned by the UAE’s Etisalat, operates extensively across Morocco and several African nations, maintaining a significant presence despite regulatory challenges.
This decision marks a pivotal moment in Morocco’s telecommunications landscape, emphasizing regulatory efforts to ensure fair market practices amidst corporate dominance.
