Moroccans who venture outside their homes without wearing face masks risk prison sentences of up to three months and a fine of up to $126 (₦46,250).
The new order takes effect Tuesday for those leaving their homes during the ongoing coronavirus lockdown, which began in mid-March.
The decision was announced on Monday after a government meeting about how to control the spread of the virus.
Face masks are to be sold at a subsidised price of $0.08 each.
By next week, Morocco plans to be producing almost six million face masks a day, an increase from the current figure of 3.3 million, industry ministry spokesman Taoufiq Moucharraf told the Reuters news agency.
Tunisia has so far reported 1,141 coronavirus cases and 83 deaths.
WHO Stance on Face Masks
At the moment the World Health Organization (WHO) does not recommend face masks to be worn by the general public, advising them for the sick or those caring for patients with coronavirus.
It says frequent hand-washing and social distancing are more effective at stopping the spread of the virus, but a WHO panel is assessing further research on the matter.
Experts have also warned that face masks must be worn correctly, changed frequently, removed and disposed of properly and be used in combination with good hygiene.
©BBC
