Morocco has announced a third expansion of the Tanger Med port, the largest container port in Africa. The project, named Tanger Med 3, aims to increase the port's annual capacity by 4.5 million containers. This expansion is expected to be achieved through a combination of public and private investments totaling over €2 billion. The port, located on the Strait of Gibraltar, is a strategic hub for international maritime trade.

The Tanger Med 3 project involves an investment of over €730 million from the public sector and €1.4 billion from private concessionaires. The works are set to start soon, with the new terminal expected to be operational by mid-2031. A concession agreement has been signed with Maersk-APM, a leading global shipping company. This expansion will enable the port to handle nearly 16 million containers per year, further solidifying its position as a major player in international trade.

Tanger Med has consistently handled over 11 million containers annually, making it the largest container port in Africa. The port's strategic location on the Strait of Gibraltar allows it to capitalize on trade between Europe, Africa, and Asia. Since its launch in 2007, the port has undergone significant expansions, including a second phase in 2019. The Tanger Med 3 project is expected to reinforce Morocco's position in international trade and energy exchanges.

The Moroccan authorities have also announced the upcoming operationalization of the Nador West Med port, located over 400 kilometers east of Tanger Med. This new port will feature a liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal capable of processing up to five billion cubic meters per year. This will mark a significant milestone for Morocco, as it seeks to enhance its port infrastructure and strengthen its position in international trade and energy exchanges.

The expansion of Tanger Med and the development of Nador West Med are part of Morocco's efforts to enhance its port infrastructure. The country's strategic location and investments in its ports are expected to increase its trade volumes and reinforce its position as a major player in international trade. The Tanger Med 3 project and the Nador West Med port are expected to contribute significantly to Morocco's economic growth.

The Tanger Med port has become a critical hub for international trade, with its strategic location allowing it to capitalize on trade between Europe, Africa, and Asia. The port's expansion is expected to have a positive impact on the regional economy, creating jobs and stimulating economic growth. The Moroccan government is committed to continuing its investments in the port sector to ensure the country's continued growth and development.

The expansion of Tanger Med and the development of Nador West Med demonstrate Morocco's commitment to enhancing its port infrastructure and strengthening its position in international trade. The country's investments in its ports are expected to increase its trade volumes and reinforce its position as a major player in international trade. The Tanger Med 3 project and the Nador West Med port are expected to contribute significantly to Morocco's economic growth and development.

Key points

  • Morocco to invest over €2 billion in Tanger Med 3 project to increase port capacity by 4.5 million containers.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.