On October 31, 2026, Prince Moulay El Hassan, Crown Prince of Morocco, officially launched operations at the first container terminal of the Nador West Med port, located in the province of Nador. The event was held in the commune of Iaâzzanène, and it marks a significant milestone in the development of the country's port infrastructure. The terminal, also known as the "East" terminal, has a capacity of 3.5 million containers by 2030 and features 1,520 meters of quay, an 18-meter draft, and 70 hectares of land.
The Nador West Med complex, which has required 54 billion dirhams in public and private investments, is a strategic project aimed at transforming Morocco's economy and creating new growth poles. The complex will comprise several terminals, including a second container terminal, a terminal for various goods, a bulk cargo terminal, a roll-on/roll-off terminal, and an energy hub. The project is expected to create 14,000 direct jobs and 20,000 indirect jobs, mainly for young people.
The "East" terminal, which has required 5 billion dirhams in investments, has been concessioned to a consortium formed by Marsa Maroc and Terminal Investment Limited, a subsidiary of the MSC group. The consortium will operate and maintain the terminal for 25 years. The terminal is expected to play a key role in Morocco's trade with Europe, the Mediterranean, and other regions.
The Nador West Med complex will also feature a second container terminal, known as the "West" terminal, with a capacity of 1.8 million EVP. The terminal, which has been concessioned to a consortium formed by Marsa Maroc and CMA CGM, will require 3 billion dirhams in investments and is expected to be operational in April 2027. The complex will also include a terminal for various goods, a bulk cargo terminal, and a roll-on/roll-off terminal.
The project is part of Morocco's strategy to develop its port infrastructure and become a major player in international trade. The Nador West Med complex is expected to complement the existing Tanger Med port and provide a new growth pole for the country's economy. The project is also expected to contribute to the development of the region and create new opportunities for young people.
Prince Moulay El Hassan also gave the go-ahead for the first unloading operation of a container from a commercial ship at the "East" terminal. The event was attended by several high-ranking officials, including ministers, governors, and business leaders. The prince was briefed on the project's progress and its expected impact on the country's economy.
The Nador West Med project is a key component of Morocco's strategy to develop its port infrastructure and become a major player in international trade. The project is expected to have a significant impact on the country's economy and create new opportunities for growth and development. The complex will also feature a platform for industrial and logistics activities, with 700 hectares of land and 12 billion dirhams in private investments.
Key points
- The Nador West Med complex will have a significant impact on Morocco's economy and trade.
- The complex will create 14,000 direct jobs and 20,000 indirect jobs.
- The project is part of Morocco's strategy to develop its port infrastructure and become a major player in international trade.
