Cosmetic product registration in Morocco is handled by the AMMPS, under circular No. 771 of October 25, 2023. The establishment must first be declared, then submit the safety data sheet to the Poison Control Center and an administrative and technical dossier for each reference. The registration certificate obtained is valid for five years and renewable.
Key takeaways
- No cosmetic can be placed on the Moroccan market without a registration certificate issued by the Ministry of Health and reviewed by the AMMPS.
- Before any product dossier, the establishment (manufacturer, importer, exporter, cooperative) must be declared. Basements are excluded as premises.
- The dossier includes the acknowledgment of the safety data sheet filed with the Moroccan Poison Control and Pharmacovigilance Center (CAPM), often called the “CAP code”.
- The certificate is valid for 5 years. Renewal must be filed at least 90 days before expiry.
- Mandatory label information must be available in Arabic and/or French.
Which text governs cosmetics registration in Morocco?
The reference text is circular No. 771 D/DMP/18 of October 25, 2023. It replaces circular No. 79 DMP/00 of December 29, 2016 and remains the framework cited by the 2026 AMMPS checklists.
The AMMPS is the Moroccan Agency for Medicines and Health Products : it took over the duties of the former Directorate of Medicines and Pharmacy (DMP), hence the expression “DMP cosmetics”. All up-to-date forms are gathered on the official AMMPS page for cosmetic and personal hygiene products.
In substance, the lists of prohibited and restricted substances, colorants, preservatives and UV filters refer to Annexes II to VI of Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009. A formula compliant with the EU market therefore has a head start, though it is not exempt from registration.
The registration certificate is the mandatory prerequisite for placing on the Moroccan market one or more references of the same range (Article 4).
Who must register a cosmetic: the manufacturer, the importer or the brand?
The application is filed by an establishment incorporated under Moroccan law and previously declared to the AMMPS, which becomes the certificate holder. The product information sheet distinguishes the applicant establishment, the “principal” (the client, often the brand) and the manufacturing and testing sites. For pharmacies and clinics in Rabat, Salé and Kénitra that want their own range, see our cosmetics lab for dermocosmetics in Rabat.
The official checklist classifies each product under four statuses, which change the documents to provide:
| AMMPS status | Situation | Specific documents |
|---|---|---|
| ImF: imported finished product | Product manufactured and packaged abroad | Manufacturer’s letter authorizing the Moroccan company, certificate of free sale from the country of origin |
| ImV: imported in bulk, packaged in Morocco | Imported bulk, local filling | Subcontracting agreement, manufacturer’s operating authorization, OMPIC trademark certificate where applicable |
| FL: manufactured locally | Formula produced in a Moroccan factory | GMP or ISO 22716 certificate, OMPIC certificate where applicable |
| FE: contract-manufactured abroad | Subcontracted to a foreign contract manufacturer | Subcontracting agreement, manufacturer’s operating authorization |
Legal status matters too: a cooperative can manufacture and export but not import, whereas a trading company can do all three, as noted by LesInfos.ma (August 5, 2026).
Cosmetic product registration in Morocco: step by step
The procedure always follows the same order: the establishment first, then the product, under circular 771 and the AMMPS checklists.
- Declare the establishment (form, floor plan, staff, articles of association, trade register). Any change must be declared within one month.
- Freeze the formula and labeling. Qualitative and quantitative formula, primary and secondary packaging, final artwork in French and/or Arabic.
- File the safety data sheet with the Poison Control Center. The CAPM issues an acknowledgment of receipt, which is essential for the dossier.
- Compile the administrative and technical dossier for the range using the AMMPS automated module.
- Submit the dossier on paper and electronically (USB stick), with the receipt for payment of the service fee.
- Respond to comments. The circular allows 3 months from the date of the letter to complete a dossier, after which it is archived.
- Receive the registration certificate, valid for five years, then monitor variations and renewal.
In practice, the CAP code is the reference obtained by filing the safety data sheet with the Moroccan Poison Control and Pharmacovigilance Center. This sheet is used to handle any poisoning case: it must match the registered formula exactly.
What documents does the AMMPS dossier contain?
The dossier has two parts: an administrative dossier, which identifies the parties and the product, and a technical dossier, which proves the quality and safety of the formula.
The administrative dossier
- Application letter signed by the legal representative;
- Product information sheet (Annex C), which can group all references of the same range;
- Copy of the company’s declaration certificate;
- Sales mock-up, color photograph and instructions for use;
- Acknowledgment of receipt of the safety data sheet filed with the Poison Control Center;
- Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) certificate or equivalent;
- Notarized sworn statement certifying that the product was developed according to international standards and that the technical dossier is archived at the establishment.
The technical dossier
The circular lists the formula, the physico-chemical and microbiological specifications of the raw materials and finished product, the manufacturing method, stability studies, the human health safety assessment, proof of claimed effects and a batch certificate of analysis. This dossier must be kept for at least 10 years after manufacture of the last batch, and the authorities can request it at any time.
The PIF (Product Information File) is the technical dossier required by Regulation 1223/2009 in the EU, and it overlaps heavily with this dossier. If you are also targeting Europe, see the standards to meet when exporting cosmetics from Morocco to Europe.
How long does the procedure take and how long is the certificate valid?
The registration certificate is valid for 5 years, renewable at least 90 days before expiry. The circular sets no overall review period.
| Deadline | Duration | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Validity of the registration certificate | 5 years, renewable | Circular 771, Art. 4 |
| Filing for renewal | At least 90 days before expiry | Circular 771, Art. 8 |
| Additional information requested by the authorities | 3 months from the letter, otherwise archived | Circular 771, Art. 13 |
| Declaration of a change to the establishment | 1 month maximum | Circular 771, Art. 2 |
| Raw material import authorization | 12 months | Circular 771, Art. 11 |
| Remediation before certificate withdrawal | 60 days | Circular 771, Art. 13 |
| Retention of the technical dossier | 10 years after the last batch | Circular 771, Art. 3 |
| Overall processing time targeted by the AMMPS | Under 4 months (plan for 4 to 6 months) | Secondary source: CasaHorizon, January 2026 |
The ATD (temporary marketing authorization) is a provisional authorization mentioned by several consulting firms. BHD and CasaHorizon describe it as valid for one year, during the final review of the dossier. It appears neither in circular 771 nor in the AMMPS checklists: have the agency confirm it before relying on it.
What changed with the 2026 AMMPS guide?
The 2026 guide mainly tightens the establishment side: prior declaration becomes mandatory before any cosmetics activity. It was presented by Le Matin on April 30, 2026, then formalized in a new AMMPS checklist applicable since May 11, 2026.
- Wider scope: the declaration also covers establishments that import raw materials intended for cosmetics manufacturing.
- Premises: a signed architectural plan is required, and the AMMPS specifies that basements “do not offer appropriate conditions” for manufacturing or storage activities.
- Staff: a named list with function and position is required.
- Cooperatives: “import activity is not provided for”, according to the AMMPS declaration checklist.
- Cannabis: ANRAC authorization is required from the establishment declaration stage.
Does the label have to be in Arabic?
Not necessarily: Article 10 of circular 771 requires mandatory information to be available “in Arabic and/or French”, in indelible, visible characters. A bilingual label is still the safest choice for distribution.
Mandatory information is close to EU requirements: product name, person responsible for placing on the market, country of origin, contents, durability date, precautions for use, batch and ingredients. Note: the labeling draft is submitted in its final form and cannot be changed afterwards without the authorities’ approval. To avoid common mistakes, read the essentials of compliant cosmetic labeling.
What about cannabis-based cosmetics?
A cosmetic containing a cannabis derivative follows the same procedure, with prior ANRAC authorization and additional documents. ANRAC is the National Agency for the Regulation of Cannabis Activities, created under Law No. 13-21 on the legal uses of cannabis.
- THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) is prohibited: the finished product must contain no trace of it, proven by a laboratory recognized by ANRAC.
- The dossier adds CBD/THC certificates of analysis, a “zero THC” sworn statement and a stability report.
- No therapeutic properties may be claimed, and the label carries the ANRAC authorization number.
Carmel presented this process in the announcement of its authorization to manufacture and export cannabis-based products.
The manufacturer’s view: what white label changes
When the product is manufactured locally, the factory declaration, GMP compliance and the technical dossier fall to the manufacturer, which lightens the load for the brand owner.
Carmel Cosmetics Labs is a lab based in Agadir, ISO 22716 and ISO 9001 certified, manufacturing white label and contract products with an accessible MOQ. To understand what this standard covers, see our guide to ISO 22716 certification in Morocco.
Our practical advice before starting a registration:
- Freeze everything before filing. A change of formula, packaging or label information after filing becomes a major variation, with a new dossier.
- Think in ranges. Registration is per reference, but one certificate can cover several references of the same range: group your shades and fragrances.
- Clarify who the holder is. The certificate belongs to the applicant establishment, and any transfer of ownership requires authorization from the Ministry.
- Calendar: note the five-year expiry date as soon as you receive the certificate, so you can file the renewal well before the 90-day limit.
Based in Casablanca or Marrakech? We support brands across Morocco, whether you are looking for a cosmetics lab for your brand in Casablanca or a manufacturing partner near Marrakech. On the documentation side, our regulatory support (PIF and compliance) prepares the technical documents required.
Frequently asked questions
Does a cosmetic made in Morocco for export only need to be registered?
Yes, as soon as you need a certificate of free sale. Article 12 of circular 771 reserves this certificate for products registered in Morocco, upon presentation of the valid registration certificate. As many importing countries require it, local registration often determines whether you can export.
Can a product be sold while the dossier is under review?
Circular 771 makes placing on the market conditional on first obtaining the registration certificate. Some firms mention a temporary authorization (ATD) issued during the final review, but it is not in the text. Do not start any sales before you have a written document from the AMMPS authorizing it.
Is a separate registration needed for each color or fragrance?
Not necessarily. Registration is per reference, with each shade, fragrance or size counting as a separate reference. However, the product information sheet can group all references of the same range under one certificate. An inseparable kit counts as a single reference.
What if I change the formula or packaging after registration?
A change of name, composition, manufacturer, packaging, legal information or shelf life is a major variation. It requires an update of the certificate, with a new notification to the Poison Control Center if the formula changes. A minor labeling change is notified by letter.
Can the registration certificate be suspended or withdrawn?
Yes. The Minister of Health can suspend or withdraw a certificate, in particular for defects in quality, safety or efficacy. The holder then has 60 days to remedy the situation according to the authorities’ comments, after which the withdrawal takes effect automatically.
Conclusion: prepare the establishment before the product
Registering a cosmetic in Morocco rests on two levels: an establishment declared under the 2026 AMMPS guide, then a dossier per range approved with a five-year certificate. Anything circular 771 does not set, including the ATD, deserves written confirmation from the agency. For more on budget and launch steps, read our complete guide to launching a cosmetics brand.
Want to launch your range in Morocco without carrying the establishment side alone? Carmel manufactures your white label products in a declared, ISO 22716 certified factory in Agadir and helps you prepare the registration dossier. Book a meeting with our team for a quote tailored to your project.