Casablanca – Tangier Med, Africa’s largest and most dynamic container port, is undergoing significant expansion and modernization efforts to enhance its operational capacity and reinforce its position as a leading global maritime hub. With major infrastructure developments underway and a new equipment upgrade initiative in place, the port is poised to handle increasing trade volumes and improve efficiency.

Major expansion to be completed by 2027

In an ambitious move to increase its capacity, Tangier Med is undergoing a large-scale expansion project, expected to be completed by the end of 2027. The project, with a total cost of $510 million, aims to improve the port’s ability to handle growing maritime traffic by adding critical infrastructure. The initiative includes constructing a dedicated paved road that will directly link the port to local stone quarries, ensuring a steady supply of raw materials for the construction of breakwaters, berths, and additional docking areas.

Currently, more than 5% of the work has been completed since the project began in September 2024. Progress is expected to accelerate significantly once the 12-kilometer access road is finalized, allowing seamless transportation of construction materials. The expansion plan also involves moving more than 30 million tons of stone, a complex process requiring continuous effort over the next three years to meet the scheduled completion date.

Modernization of port equipment

As part of its continuous improvement strategy, APM Terminals, the operator of Tangier Med’s container terminals, has signed an agreement with Kalmar Global, a leading Finnish manufacturer of heavy handling equipment, to modernize 32 straddle carriers at the port. This project, confirmed in Q1 2025, is scheduled to begin in Q2 2025 and be completed by the end of Q1 2026.

The modernization effort focuses on extending the operational lifespan of the existing equipment while enhancing safety, performance, and reliability. According to Thomas Malmborg, President of Kalmar Services, this initiative will strengthen the port’s efficiency and productivity, ensuring it remains competitive in the global maritime industry.

Keld Pedersen, General Manager of APM Terminals West Mediterranean, highlighted the long-standing partnership between APM Terminals and Kalmar, emphasizing that the upgraded equipment will play a crucial role in delivering world-class customer service and optimizing port operations.

Recent infrastructure developments and financial backing

Tangier Med has consistently expanded its capabilities to accommodate increasing maritime traffic. In 2024, APM Terminals completed a 2-million-TEU expansion, raising the port’s overall container handling capacity to 5.2 million TEUs per year. To further support its ambitious development goals, the company secured $437 million in financing from the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and a group of international banks led by JP Morgan in November 2024. This funding is dedicated to building new infrastructure and implementing digitalization initiatives to enhance operational efficiency.

Technological advancements and digitalization efforts

In addition to physical expansion, Tangier Med is prioritizing technological innovation to enhance its efficiency. The port is integrating advanced automation and digitalization solutions, including:

• Automated mooring systems to streamline vessel docking.
• Digital berth planning tools to optimize scheduling and reduce waiting times.
• The Gemini simulation tool, which provides predictive analytics to enhance port logistics and workflow management.

These advancements align with the port’s broader vision of becoming a fully digitized and smart maritime hub, reducing operational costs and improving environmental sustainability by minimizing carbon emissions and greenhouse gases.

Tangier Med’s global standing

Tangier Med continues to solidify its reputation as one of the world’s most efficient ports. According to the World Bank, the port ranked 4th globally in container handling efficiency. In 2024, it processed an impressive 10.2 million TEUs and handled a total of 142 million tons of cargo, further underscoring its strategic importance in global trade.

The ongoing expansion and modernization projects at Tangier Med reflect Morocco’s commitment to strengthening its position as a key player in international maritime trade. With infrastructure enhancements, cutting-edge technology, and strategic partnerships, the port is well-positioned to accommodate rising global trade demands while improving efficiency and sustainability. As these projects progress, Tangier Med is set to reinforce its role as a premier gateway connecting Africa, Europe, and beyond.