Algorithms, data… Smarter customs controls

With 6.24 billion dirhams (USD 688 million) in additional revenue and record seizures in 2024, the Customs and Excise Administration (ADII) is strengthening its control mechanisms while accelerating digitization to streamline trade. In 2024, it reached a new milestone in the fight against under-invoicing, a practice that continues to weigh on government revenues. Thanks to the integration of advanced analysis tools into the BADR system, 64 sectoral studies were conducted, updating no fewer than 336 value indicators specific to each sector. These dynamic databases make it possible to automatically compare declared prices with consolidated references and identify suspicious discrepancies. As a direct result, MAD 5.39 billion (USD 448 million) in additional revenue was collected in adjustments related to declared value, compared to MAD 4.07 billion (USD 448 million) the previous year, an increase of nearly 32%.

Beyond under-invoicing, the ADII continued its strategy of combating illegal channels in 2024. This enabled it to achieve significant results. Seizures of cannabis resin almost doubled, reaching 38 tons compared to 21 tons in 2023. Interceptions of hard drugs also increased: 750 kg seized, nearly triple the previous year’s figure.

S Smuggling remains a priority target. Customs services intercepted 284 million dirhams (USD 31 million) worth of illicit goods, up 7.7% from 2023 (262 million dirhams, i.e. USD 29 million). “ This increase reflects a significant slowdown in smuggling activity ”, the ADII notes in its 2024 activity report.  It is attributed to a combination of operational intelligence, increased mobilization of mobile units, random and targeted checks, and improved synergy between the various national entities, particularly the National Customs Brigade.

The contraband tobacco market perfectly illustrates the deterrent effect of this new strategy. In 2024, seizure volumes fell by 58% to 254,000 units, a historically low level. This trend is confirmed by the 11th prevalence study on contraband cigarettes, which reveals a weighted penetration rate of 1.04%, a sharp decline compared to previous years (1.85% in 2023, 2.81% in 2022).

Behind these figures, a more profound transformation is underway. The use of algorithmic targeting tools integrated into BADR makes it possible to identify suspicious flows more quickly and anticipate new routes for trafficking networks. Inspections are no longer massive but selective, smart, and fast, combining digital intelligence and operational action in the field. As a result, inspections are now smarter. The selectivity rate for imports is 20.4% and falls to 8.9% for exports, reflecting a risk-based approach. This allows 73% of declarations to pass through the green channel without any documentary checks, while only 16% are directed to the red channel, involving a physical inspection.

Khadija MASMOUDI