The 26th edition had initially been scheduled to take place from Oct. 23 to 31, 2026. The CCM said the decision followed consultations with industry professionals and was intended to address concerns over the heavy concentration of national and international film festivals and events in October.
The overlap, the center noted, could make it more difficult for industry professionals and Moroccan films to participate in multiple events, particularly as several major international festivals impose premiere requirements on participating films.
Holding the festival in March will allow it to respond to these concerns while repositioning the Tangier event as the first major film gathering of Morocco’s annual cinema calendar, according to the CCM.
Read also : Casablanca’s historic Empire cinema set to reopen after two decades
The center said the festival would thereby serve as the starting point of the national film season, whose international reach is extended through the Marrakech International Film Festival.
The CCM added that the decision reflects its commitment to consultation and dialogue with industry stakeholders and to creating the best organizational, artistic and professional conditions for the 26th edition.
The festival remains a key national platform for showcasing Moroccan film production, promoting local talent and highlighting the different components of the country’s film industry.
