Casablanca – The port of Tanger Med, ranked fourth in the 2023 Global Container Port Performance Index, reinforces its effective role in global trade. Leading on the continent and excelling in Europe, it showcases innovation and adaptability to address the evolving dynamics of global commerce. With the integration of new ports into the CPPI and an increased focus on sustainability, Tanger Med continues to demonstrate its importance in the global logistics domain.

Tangier, Morocco’s primary port and a key player in African logistics, continues to shine globally, securing the fourth spot in the Container Port Performance Index (CPPI) for 2023, according to a recent report by the World Bank in collaboration with S&P Global Market Intelligence.

Tanger Med, is known as a strategic port, stands as Africa’s premier port which surpasses numerous European counterparts, an achievement underscored for the second consecutive year. Surpassing giants like Colombia’s Cartagena port and Malaysia’s Tanjung Pelepas, Tanger Med reaffirms its strategic significance in global trade.

The CPPI, analyzing the performance of 405 container ports worldwide, primarily evaluates vessel turnaround times to gauge efficiency. Over the study year, it recorded more than 182,000 port calls, with an impressive volume of 238.2 million container movements, equivalent to approximately 381 million TEUs (Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units). Additionally, the 2023 report introduces 57 new ports, including Muuga in Estonia and Duqm in Oman, highlighting the increasing recognition of ports’ strategic importance in international trade.

Tanger Med serves as a prime example of the critical role port infrastructure plays in global economic stability and growth. Martin Humphreys, Senior Transport Economist at the World Bank, emphasizes that over 80% of international trade in goods is conducted by sea, making efficient port performance vital for global market functionality. In response to emerging challenges such as regional disruptions and the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the maritime sector, Tanger Med has implemented innovative strategies to enhance its resilience.

Humphreys underscores the importance of investing in new technologies and green infrastructure to maintain market stability, given the inherent unpredictability and volatility of the container shipping sector.

One notable improvement in this year’s CPPI is the increased focus on assessing the environmental impacts of port operations, reflecting a growing global awareness of the need for sustainable and eco-friendly practices. Turloch Mooney, Head of Port Information and Analysis at S&P Global Market Intelligence, emphasizes the rising recognition of port efficiency and resilience.

Understanding the impact of port delays on overall economic development is crucial, Mooney notes, emphasizing the need to take necessary steps to improve these aspects.

Tanger Med’s continued growth and adaptation attract attention not only from business operators but also from policymakers and international investors. With its modern infrastructure and strategic geographical location at the nexus of major maritime routes, Tanger Med is well-positioned to maintain its pivotal role in international trade and global logistics.

With its important performance and ongoing expansion initiatives, Tanger Med solidifies its leadership in Africa and emerges as a strong player on the global stage, ready to address future challenges and make significant contributions to both the Moroccan and global economies.