Morocco's New Check Law Settles Over 16,000 Cases Valued at 630 Million Dirhams

The recent implementation of Morocco's new check law, as detailed by Justice Minister Abdellatif Ouahbi, marks a significant stride in modernizing the nation's commercial practices. This legislation, which came into effect in January 2026, directly tackles long-standing issues surrounding bounced checks, a common source of financial and legal disputes.

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The new law, which entered into force in January 2026, has contributed to resolving a number of issues related to check offenses, especially those related to the high fines that hindered settlement.

The law's success is evident in the remarkable figures: over 16,000 checks, totaling more than 630 million dirhams, have been settled. This achievement is largely attributed to the reduction of penalties for insufficient funds from a prohibitive 25% to a more manageable 2%. This adjustment has not only encouraged timely payments but also significantly eased the burden on individuals and businesses alike, fostering a more stable financial environment.

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This law enabled the settlement of more than 16,000 checks with a total value exceeding 630 million dirhams, which were pending due to insufficient funds, as these cases were processed and the amounts due were paid.

Minister Ouahbi's explanation of the law's mechanics, including the facilitation of public action dismissal upon payment and a reduced fine, underscores the government's commitment to streamlining legal processes. The inclusion of provisions for 'checks for guarantee' further demonstrates a comprehensive approach to regulating financial instruments. However, the Minister's cautionary note regarding the use of such checks in electoral campaigns, while sparking debate, highlights a crucial intersection of financial law and political integrity that warrants careful consideration by all elected officials.

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Reducing the fine from 25 percent to 2 percent contributed to settling an additional 1,640 cases, highlighting that the state benefited from these operations by approximately 2.3 million dirhams.

From a Moroccan perspective, this legal reform is not merely about settling debts; it's about enhancing trust in the financial system and ensuring that legal frameworks adapt to contemporary economic realities. The law's ability to resolve a substantial backlog of cases and encourage compliance reflects a proactive approach to governance, aiming to create a more predictable and equitable economic landscape for all citizens. The ensuing discussion in parliament, though initially contentious, ultimately serves to reinforce the importance of transparency and responsible financial conduct, especially within the political sphere.

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The new law allows for the dismissal of public prosecution in case the check amount is paid along with a 2% fine, whether at the complaint stage or after judgments have been issued at various levels; which leads to the immediate release of the concerned parties.