Casablanca – Morocco’s port sector is entering a new phase of transformation, backed by a large-scale investment program approved by the National Ports Agency (ANP). Over the 2026–2028 period, ANP plans to mobilize more than $391.8 million to modernize port infrastructure, strengthen governance, and accelerate the green and digital transition across the national port system. The program reflects the strategic importance of ports in Morocco’s economic model and its ambition to reinforce its position as a regional logistics and maritime hub.
The investment plan was validated by ANP’s Board of Directors during meetings held in Rabat under the chairmanship of the Minister of Equipment and Water, Nizar Baraka. These sessions focused on approving the Agency’s 2026 budget, reviewing financial performance in 2025, and endorsing the financial and operational orientations for the 2026–2028 period. Of the total investment envelope, $144.3 million is scheduled for 2026 alone, signaling a strong upfront commitment to the program.
According to ANP’s management, this three-year plan is not limited to technical upgrades. Instead, it is designed as a structural lever to improve competitiveness, efficiency, and resilience across Morocco’s ports. While it builds on modernization efforts launched in recent years—such as easing port traffic and upgrading equipment—it also seeks to address persistent governance and regulatory challenges that affect operators on the ground.
A central pillar of the 2026–2028 strategy is the strengthening of governance and operational efficiency. ANP aims to optimize port management, improve coordination among public and private stakeholders, and reinforce the regulatory framework governing port activities. By providing clearer operating regimes and supporting operators in implementing their investment projects, the Agency intends to create a more transparent and predictable environment for port users.
Another key axis is the acceleration of the green and digital transition. In practical terms, this includes expanding the use of automated systems, integrated information platforms, and digitalized administrative procedures. These measures are expected to reduce processing times, lower logistics costs, and limit the environmental footprint of port operations. As competition intensifies among ports in the Mediterranean and Atlantic regions, ANP views sustainability and digital performance as essential factors for maintaining Morocco’s attractiveness.
From a financial standpoint, the Agency’s projections point to continued stability. ANP expects its revenue to remain above $288.7 million starting in 2026, supported by growing port activity and the rollout of new services and infrastructure. Board members have expressed satisfaction with the financial results achieved in 2025, considering them a solid base for the next investment cycle.
These port-sector reforms are aligned with broader national priorities. According to Minister Nizar Baraka, ANP’s budgetary and investment choices fit within Morocco’s socio-economic trajectory and the Royal directives calling for the modernization of port infrastructure and its consolidation as a pillar of foreign trade. The objective is to ensure that Moroccan ports can efficiently connect the country to African, European, and global markets, while supporting domestic economic growth.
Alongside these system-wide investments, individual port projects are already delivering visible results. A notable example is the new cruise terminal at the Port of Casablanca, which has shown strong early performance since its inauguration on September 18, 2025. According to ANP, the terminal has welcomed 53 cruise ships, carrying 93,970 passengers in its first months of operation. These figures point to growing interest from international cruise operators and highlight Casablanca’s emerging role in maritime tourism.
The operation of the cruise terminal has been assigned, effective January 1, 2026, to Global Ports Holding through its subsidiary Casablanca Cruise Port. As a major international operator of cruise terminals, Global Ports Holding provides advanced operational know-how and strong connections with global cruise line networks. The National Ports Agency views this partnership as a strategic advantage that increases Casablanca’s visibility on key international cruise routes and deepens its integration into global tourism flows.
Designed as a symbolic gateway to Morocco, the Casablanca cruise terminal meets international standards in terms of passenger comfort, service quality, and operational fluidity. Beyond tourism, the project is expected to generate positive spillovers for the local economy, including increased spending, job creation, and stronger links between port activity and urban development.
The cruise terminal also illustrates how ANP’s broader investment strategy extends beyond traditional cargo handling. By diversifying port activities and supporting maritime tourism, the Agency aims to broaden revenue sources and increase the overall value generated by ports.
Taken together, the $391.8 million investment program and the early success of projects like the Casablanca cruise terminal highlight a coordinated effort to reshape Morocco’s port landscape. The challenge ahead lies in execution—ensuring that governance reforms, infrastructure upgrades, and sustainability goals translate into tangible improvements for operators and users. As the 2026–2028 program unfolds, its impact will be closely watched by the logistics sector, investors, and the national economy alike.
