Casablanca – The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has approved a $119 million loan to Nador West Med to finance the first phase of its industrial and logistics zone. This strategic investment aims to transform the region into a major economic and trade hub, reinforcing Morocco’s position in global supply chains.

A strategic investment for economic growth

This loan, backed by the Moroccan government, is set to enhance the logistics and industrial appeal of the Oriental region. By financing key infrastructure projects, the partnership will improve trade efficiency, attract foreign investment, and create job opportunities.

Spanning 850 hectares, the first phase of the Nador West Med Industrial & Logistic Zone (NWM BILZ) will operate alongside the Nador West Med Port, whose core infrastructure is nearing completion. The project is expected to strengthen industrial supply chains and increase Morocco’s competitiveness in international markets.

Key infrastructure developments

The investment program includes:

  • Industrial land development to accommodate factories and logistics platforms
  • Construction of a wastewater treatment plant to support sustainable industrial activities
  • Development of a desalination plant to ensure a reliable water supply
  • Installation of high-efficiency public lighting to promote energy conservation
  • Expansion of the electrical grid to support industrial growth

Green and Sustainable Investments

Beyond infrastructure, the project incorporates green investment strategies, aligning with Morocco’s sustainability goals. Additional funding from international partners will further support environmental initiatives:

  • A $5.4 million investment grant from the EBRD Shareholder Special Fund
  • A $3 million grant from the UK’s High Impact Partnership on Climate Action
  • A $2.5 million investment grant from the Global Environment Facility

These contributions will help integrate climate adaptation measures, efficient resource management, and renewable energy solutions into the project.

Impact on Morocco’s trade and employment

With the support of the EBRD, the industrial and logistics zone is set to boost regional economic activity, creating thousands of job opportunities and enhancing trade flow. The Moroccan government envisions the Nador West Med Port as a key driver of economic development, aligning with the country’s 2030 port strategy.

Once fully operational, the zone is expected to generate over 30,000 jobs, strengthen export-oriented value chains, and attract significant foreign direct investment.

A long-term partnership between EBRD and Nador West Med

This latest loan builds on previous EBRD investments in the Nador West Med project. The bank had previously provided:

  • $216 million in 2015 to finance port infrastructure
  • $108 million in 2022 to cover additional technical and geotechnical requirements

With this new phase, the EBRD and Nador West Med reaffirm their long-term collaboration, ensuring that the Oriental region emerges as a major industrial and trade hub in North Africa.

As Morocco continues to position itself as a logistics powerhouse, investments like these pave the way for a sustainable, competitive, and globally connected economy.