Casablanca – In a landmark move for Morocco’s logistics and maritime sector, the CMA CGM Group and Marsa Maroc have formalized a strategic partnership aimed at transforming the Nador West Med port into a key logistics hub. The agreement, signed during a state visit by French President Emmanuel Macron, marks a significant investment in Morocco’s economic landscape.

This joint venture will see CMA CGM, the world’s third-largest shipping container company, and Marsa Maroc, the national leader in port terminal management, collaborate to develop and operate a substantial portion of the Nador West Med container terminal. Over the next 25 years, the partnership will focus on a 750-meter quay and 35 hectares of yard, backed by an impressive investment of $280 million.

The strategic objective of this collaboration is to enhance the terminal’s capacity to handle an annual volume of 1.2 million TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units). This initiative is expected to optimize logistics operations and significantly improve service quality, positioning Morocco as a vital player in the global maritime economy.

Rodolphe Saadé, CEO of CMA CGM, emphasized the strategic significance of Morocco in the logistics network connecting Europe, Africa, and the Mediterranean Basin. “Our partnership with Marsa Maroc is a key step in reinforcing our presence in Morocco, where we aim to support the country’s development, particularly in logistics and alternative energy sectors,” he stated.

The Nador West Med port is set to become a crucial logistics hub, especially with plans to incorporate green hydrogen production into its operations. This aligns with Morocco’s commitment to sustainable development and positions the port as a future leader in the use of alternative fuels, such as e-methane and e-methanol, for shipping.

With this investment, CMA CGM and Marsa Maroc aim to enhance port infrastructure and create a ripple effect throughout the Moroccan economy. By increasing the terminal’s capacity and improving logistical efficiency, the partnership is expected to attract foreign investment and stimulate regional economic growth. It also aligns with broader efforts to reduce carbon emissions in the shipping industry, further enhancing Morocco’s appeal as a forward-thinking player in the maritime sector.

As Morocco continues to solidify its position as a strategic logistics hub, the partnership between CMA CGM and Marsa Maroc is set to pave the way for substantial economic benefits, driving growth and development in the region for years to come.