business
Moroccan Pharmacies Report Highest Profit Margins in the Region, Raising Policy and Equity Concerns
A recent report by Morocco’s Supreme Audit Council reveals that pharmacy profit margins in the Kingdom reach up to 57%—far exceeding those in France, Portugal, Belgium, and Turkey.
Rabat, Morocco — August 2025
A recent comparative study released by Morocco’s Supreme Audit Council (المجلس الأعلى للحسابات) has shed light on a controversial issue: pharmacy profit margins. The report finds that Moroccan pharmacies benefit from a profit margin of 57%—the highest among surveyed countries—sparking debate over drug pricing transparency and access to medicine.
In contrast, profit margins in comparable countries are significantly lower:
- France: 21.4%
- Portugal: 5.58%
- Belgium: 6.42%
- Turkey: 25%
The data highlights a striking disparity, particularly when viewed against the backdrop of Morocco’s ongoing efforts to reform its healthcare system and expand coverage under the General Social Protection Project.
Understanding the Margins
According to the report, the 57% profit margin applies to medicines priced below 166 Moroccan dirhams (~$17) before taxes and fees. These margins are applied at the retail pharmacy level and do not account for additional upstream costs such as distribution, manufacturing, or regulatory fees.
While pharmaceutical businesses argue these margins are necessary to sustain operations under limited subsidies and infrastructure costs, health economists and civil society groups are raising concerns about affordability for patients—especially in rural and low-income areas.
Public Reaction and Expert Commentary
“This level of markup—nearly triple that of some European countries—suggests structural inefficiencies or a lack of pricing oversight,” said Dr. Amina Mernissi, a health policy analyst based in Casablanca.
“It’s crucial to align profit incentives with public health outcomes.”
On social media, many Moroccans expressed frustration, particularly amid rising costs of living and limited access to specialty medications.
Policy Implications and Reform Needs
The audit is expected to intensify pressure on the Ministry of Health and Social Protection to:
- Reevaluate the national pharmaceutical pricing framework
- Improve supply chain regulation
- Reduce patient out-of-pocket costs
- Expand access through digital and public pharmacies
Some experts have proposed introducing tiered pricing models or caps on profit margins, similar to frameworks in France or Belgium, where pharmacy profits are decoupled from drug base prices.
Comparative Perspective
| Country | Pharmacy Profit Margin |
|---|---|
| Morocco | 57% |
| France | 21.4% |
| Turkey | 25% |
| Belgium | 6.42% |
| Portugal | 5.58% |
The stark difference underscores a potential gap in regulatory equilibrium. In many EU countries, pharmacy margins are regulated or subsidized to ensure essential medications remain affordable.
The Bigger Picture: Affordability and Access
As Morocco moves toward universal health coverage and seeks to modernize its healthcare infrastructure, pharmaceutical pricing remains a cornerstone of the discussion. Balancing sustainability for pharmacies with equitable access for patients will be essential to building public trust and improving health outcomes.