Morocco’s Budget Deficit Reaches $3bn in August

 Morocco recorded a budget deficit of 30.4 billion dirhams by late August 2022. (Reuters)
Morocco recorded a budget deficit of 30.4 billion dirhams by late August 2022. (Reuters)
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Morocco’s Budget Deficit Reaches $3bn in August

 Morocco recorded a budget deficit of 30.4 billion dirhams by late August 2022. (Reuters)
Morocco recorded a budget deficit of 30.4 billion dirhams by late August 2022. (Reuters)

Morocco’s Ministry of Economy and Finance said Monday that the situation of the Moroccan Treasury's expenses and resources indicated a budget deficit of 30.4 billion dirhams ($3 billion) by August 31, against 43.3 billion dirhams ($4.3 billion) a year earlier.

Also, tax revenues showed a good overall performance, with an increase of 19.8%, recording a realization rate of 75.1% despite the increase in refunds, rebates and tax refunds, which have amounted to 9.4 billion dirhams.

The non-tax revenues amounted to nearly 23.4 billion dirhams.

Revenues from public institutions and companies reached 7.1 billion dirhams, including four billion dirhams paid by OCP Group, 2.2 billion dirhams by the National Agency of Land Conservation, Cadaster and Cartography (ANCFCC) and 505 million dirhams by Bank Al-Maghrib.

The other revenues amounted to 16.3 million dirhams, including 10.2 million dirhams from innovative financing.

Expenditure on goods and services also increased by 1.9 billion dirhams for “other goods and services” and 3.3 billion dirhams for personnel costs.

Interest on debt rose by 940 million dirhams to 23.4 million dirhams, reflecting an increase in interest on domestic debt (+1 million dirhams) and a slight decline in interest on foreign debt (-61 million dirhams).



Oman LNG Delivers First Shipment to Shell

A glimpse of the first LNG shipment delivery to Shell at the industrial complex in Sur, Oman (Oman News Agency)
A glimpse of the first LNG shipment delivery to Shell at the industrial complex in Sur, Oman (Oman News Agency)
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Oman LNG Delivers First Shipment to Shell

A glimpse of the first LNG shipment delivery to Shell at the industrial complex in Sur, Oman (Oman News Agency)
A glimpse of the first LNG shipment delivery to Shell at the industrial complex in Sur, Oman (Oman News Agency)

Oman LNG on Tuesday announced the successful loading of its first liquefied natural gas (LNG) cargo to Shell under its new long-term agreements, marking a significant milestone in the company’s strategy to expand its global market reach and reinforce Oman’s position as a leading LNG supplier.
According to Oman News Agency, the ceremonial event took place at Oman LNG’s state-of-the-art facility in Sur, under the auspices of Salim al Aufi, Minister of Energy and Minerals, alongside senior officials from Oman LNG and Shell.
Aufi, in his remarks, emphasized the importance of this milestone, saying, “Today’s shipment is not merely a delivery but a testament to Oman’s commitment to energy security, global collaboration, and sustainable economic growth. It also reflects the strong partnership between Oman LNG and Shell, built on mutual trust and a shared vision.”

Shell, as the largest offtaker under these new agreements, plays a pivotal role in Oman LNG’s strategic plans for sustained growth and market expansion.

Oman LNG’s CEO, Hamad al Naamany, highlighted the significance of this shipment, saying, “We are embarking on a 10-year concession extension with market leaders in LNG and energy. Our growth is aligned with Oman’s vision and adapted to the evolving global energy market demands. Our partnership with Shell continues to thrive, contributing to Oman’s economic diversification goals.”