Morocco plans to open its second Mediterranean deepwater port, Nador West Med, in the fourth quarter of this year, aiming to expand on the global success of Tanger Med, which is presently the largest port in the Mediterranean and Africa.
According to Reuters, the $5.6 billion port project will begin operations with a 5-million container capacity per year. The royal palace also aims to increase the number of containers to 12 million as demand develops, according to a statement issued during a meeting chaired by King Mohammed VI.
Nador West Med has been transformed into a major multi-purpose maritime center. The complex includes 5.4 kilometers of breakwaters, 4 kilometers of quays, and four power stations, demonstrating Morocco’s desire to establish the port as a significant gateway for regional and worldwide trade.
Energy infrastructure plays a critical role in the project. The port has been built to house Morocco’s first liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal, with an annual handling capacity of 5 billion cubic metres, as well as a dedicated hydrocarbon terminal. These projects are expected to improve the country’s energy security and drive industrial growth.
Aside from shipping and electricity, the project comprises 700 hectares designated for industrial and logistics purposes. According to the palace, the zone has already received 20 billion dirhams in private investment, indicating substantial interest from manufacturing and logistical companies looking for access to global markets.
When fully operational, Nador West Med is projected to strengthen Morocco’s position as a regional commercial, energy, and logistics hub, complementing Tanger Med and consolidating the country’s location along important Mediterranean and transcontinental maritime routes.