Competition Council targets medical device sector in Morocco with surprise inspections

The Competition Council has launched a series of unannounced inspections in Morocco's medical device distribution sector, shedding light on business practices within this sensitive market. On February 17, 2026, the council's investigative teams executed simultaneous searches and seizures at the offices of several industry players, driven by suspicions of anti-competitive conduct. These operations, supported by judicial police officers and authorized by the King's Prosecutor, are based on Article 72 of the law governing freedom of pricing and competition.

Among the companies targeted is Masterlab, a leading distributor of supplies and technologies for medical analysis laboratories. According to multiple media reports, this investigation occurs amid significant market concentration, particularly following a strategic alliance with an international group, and concerns about potentially restrictive terms set by the Ministry of Health that might stifle competition.

In a bid to prevent premature conclusions, the Competition Council has cautioned that, at this stage, there is no concrete evidence of anti-competitive activities or culpability of the inspected entities. Only the council's deliberative bodies, following a contradictory procedure that upholds the rights of defense, can make a determination on the core issues.

This raid coincides with the impending adoption of a new regulatory framework by the CC for the distribution of medicines, particularly through pharmacies and wholesalers. Expected to be implemented by the end of the month, this framework seeks to align regulations with the evolving Moroccan pharmaceutical market, where pricing mechanisms, reimbursement, and product availability remain top priorities for the authorities.