Casablanca – Marsa Maroc, Morocco’s leading port operator, has officially entered the Liberian maritime sector through a management contract with the National Port Authority of Liberia (NPAL) to operate two jetties at the port of Monrovia, the country’s main deep-water port. The agreement, finalized on February 10, 2026, in Casablanca, represents the first phase of a strategic partnership that could lead to the development of a new multipurpose terminal at the port.

The contract, awarded following an international tender, marks a significant step in Marsa Maroc’s ongoing expansion across Africa. The company, through its subsidiary Marsa Maroc International Logistics (MMIL), will oversee the rehabilitation of the facilities, provide port equipment, and contribute its expertise in bulk cargo handling. The phased rollout of operations is scheduled to begin in the first half of 2026.

A strategic entry into Liberia

Monrovia port serves as Liberia’s principal maritime gateway, handling the bulk of the country’s imports and exports. The port plays a central role in national trade and logistics, making it a strategic hub for economic development. By partnering with NPAL, Marsa Maroc aims to enhance the port’s operational efficiency, strengthen logistics competitiveness, and contribute to Liberia’s broader economic growth.

“This partnership combines Marsa Maroc’s operational expertise with NPAL’s strategic vision for Liberia’s port system,” a company spokesperson said. “It represents a shared ambition to modernize and energize the country’s maritime infrastructure, aligning with regional development initiatives.”

The agreement is not limited to immediate management operations. It lays the groundwork for a long-term concession that will allow the construction and operation of a new multipurpose terminal at Monrovia. This terminal will expand capacity, improve operational continuity, and strengthen Liberia’s position within regional maritime corridors, including projects such as the “Liberty Corridor,” which aims to connect the region’s mineral resources to international markets through strategic port infrastructures.

Marsa Maroc’s African expansion strategy

Marsa Maroc is a prominent player in African port operations, currently managing 34 terminals across 20 ports with an annual cargo throughput exceeding 60 million tonnes. The company has increasingly focused on expanding its footprint in West and Central Africa. In 2024, it was entrusted with the management of Terminals 1 and 5 at the Autonomous Port of Cotonou in Benin.

The Monrovia project aligns with Marsa Maroc’s strategic plan, “Marsa 2030,” which emphasizes international expansion, operational excellence, and the development of large-scale port projects in partnership with leading global operators. By combining rehabilitation, operational modernization, and technological upgrades, the company aims to set a benchmark for efficiency and sustainability in African port operations.

Implications for Liberia’s economic and logistics development

The partnership is expected to have far-reaching impacts on Liberia’s logistics and trade infrastructure. Monrovia port will benefit from improved operational performance, increased handling capacity, and greater integration into regional and international shipping networks. These improvements are expected to enhance the country’s attractiveness for foreign trade and investment, supporting Liberia’s broader economic development goals.

Additionally, the collaboration reflects a wider trend of South-South cooperation in Africa, where expertise and investment are shared between emerging economies to strengthen infrastructure and regional integration. The development of a new multipurpose terminal will not only improve Liberia’s maritime competitiveness but also contribute to regional trade connectivity, especially in linking mineral-rich hinterlands to global markets.

About the National Port Authority of Liberia (NPAL)

NPAL is responsible for the administration, management, and development of all ports in Liberia. Its mission is to facilitate trade, support national economic growth, and integrate Liberia into regional and international maritime networks. The partnership with Marsa Maroc represents a significant step toward achieving these goals by modernizing port infrastructure and improving operational efficiency.

About Marsa Maroc

Founded as Morocco’s flagship port operator, Marsa Maroc manages 34 terminals in 20 ports across Africa, with annual cargo volumes exceeding 60 million tonnes. The company has a proven track record in terminal management, rehabilitation projects, and operational modernization. Through its “Marsa 2030” strategy, it continues to pursue international expansion and large-scale port projects in partnership with global operators.

Marsa Maroc’s entry into Liberia marks a pivotal moment for both the company and the country’s maritime sector. By leveraging Moroccan operational expertise and combining it with Liberia’s strategic vision for port development, the partnership promises to enhance Monrovia’s capacity, modernize its infrastructure, and strengthen Liberia’s role in regional maritime trade. With the phased rollout beginning in mid-2026, the project is poised to set a benchmark for sustainable and strategic port development in West Africa.