The issue? Disputed practices related to commission fees charged to Moroccan hotels.
Earlier in 2024, Booking.com pledged to cover commission transfer costs, including bank fees and transfers. This decision followed negotiations with the Moroccan Federation of Travel Agencies (FMTAV) and was well-received by the tourism industry, which had long criticized Booking.com’s high fees.
However, the honeymoon seems to be over. Booking.com has reneged on its promise, citing changes in banking regulations. This explanation is disputed by Morocco’s Central Bank, which denies issuing any such mandates.
This reversal leaves Moroccan hotels facing a double whammy. Not only are they charged the original high commission fees, but they are now also obligated to pay an additional 10% withholding tax.
The FMTAV is calling for intervention from the Ministry of Finance, the Bureau de Change, and the Central Bank to address this situation.
Adding fuel to the fire, the FMTAV is concerned about the practice of Moroccan customers booking domestic travel on Booking.com in Moroccan dirhams. This, they argue, leads to a loss of foreign currency crucial for imports and national economic stability. They point to Turkey’s recent ban on domestic hotel bookings through such platforms as an example of protective measures. A proposal by the Moroccan tourism industry for Booking.com to open a local bank account to cover transfer costs was also rejected.
With no immediate resolution in sight, the tense relationship between Booking.com and the Moroccan tourism industry appears headed for a prolonged struggle.
MN/fss/abj/APA