Good Riddance PCR Test!
Morocco has abolished the requirement of a PCR test to enter its territory in order to encourage the return of foreign tourists and support a sector vital to the national economy, according to a government statement published on Tuesday 17 May.
"The Moroccan government has decided to cancel the PCR test requirement for entry into Morocco," the Prime Minister's office said. This decision, effective immediately, "was taking into consideration the improvement of the epidemiological situation in our country," the statement said.
Relaunching Tourism
Aziz Akkanouch's government was under pressure from the tourism industry professionals, to save the season and revive a sector devastated by two years of pandemic.
"We are very happy. It's a decision that should have been taken before but the main thing is that it's done," Lahcen Zelmat, president of the National Federation of the Hotel Industry (FNIH), told AFP. "This will encourage Moroccans living abroad, who return to the country for the summer holidays, as well as foreign tourists," he said.
Health Pass
On the other hand, the health pass remains obligatory to access Moroccan territory. The reopening of Moroccan airspace on 7 February was accompanied by restrictions: a valid vaccination pass and a negative PCR test less than 48 hours before departure. On arrival at airports, travellers were also subjected to an antigen test and PCR tests were carried out randomly on passengers. These measures were considered "too restrictive" by tour operators and hoteliers.
Therefore, this recent decision to do away with the PCR test is extremely welcome and has brought relief to hundreds of thousands of people, Moroccans and tourists alike, but especially to Moroccans!