Morocco temporarily halts trade with Melilla during Operation Marhaba

Business owners in Melilla have confirmed that authorities informed them that commercial goods will not be allowed to cross the customs border with Morocco during the period of Operation Marhaba (OPE).

Although the measure has not been officially announced, several sources state it will remain in effect until September, when the operation ends. Operation Marhaba is one of the largest seasonal migration movements in the Mediterranean, facilitating the return of Moroccans living abroad.

Industry sources suggest the suspension aims to avoid disrupting the flow of passengers during this sensitive period.

In Melilla, a shipment of household appliances was stopped at the border after customs authorities informed a contractor of an official Moroccan ban on goods crossing in both directions during the OPE. This restriction was reportedly confirmed via an official email in French.

According to El Faro de Melilla, Moroccan authorities sent a formal notice to their Spanish counterparts regarding the customs suspension, without specifying how long it would last or the detailed reasons behind it.