Cadiz port resumes maritime connection with Morocco after 11 years

Friday 14 November 2025 - 08:50

By: Dakir Madiha

Cadiz port resumes maritime connection with Morocco after 11 years

The Port of Cadiz has reestablished regular maritime connections with Morocco after an 11-year hiatus, a major step in revitalizing cross-strait trade and cooperation. This milestone marks a turning point in the port's strategic expansion plan, which aims to strengthen ties with both Morocco and the Canary Islands.

The renewed connection began on October 27 with the arrival of the container ship Panda 004, operated by TAILWIND Shipping Lines, also known as "Lidl’s shipping company." The vessel is part of the Dolphin Express (DEX) service, which links key ports including Moerdijk (Netherlands), Antwerp (Belgium), Setúbal (Portugal), Cadiz (Spain), Barcelona (Spain), and Casablanca (Morocco). With the capacity to carry up to 1,380 containers, this service underscores Cadiz’s growing role in regional and international trade.

Strategic partnerships drive port expansion

The reconnection with Morocco aligns with the efforts of Bernardino Abad S.L., the consignee agent for TAILWIND Shipping Lines in Cadiz, which has been instrumental in promoting the port’s development. As part of the Maritime Blue Growth initiative, the Port Authority of the Bay of Cadiz hosted a conference titled “Cadiz, Green and Blue Port: Promoting Short-Distance Maritime Transport.” The event brought together institutional leaders and industry experts to discuss the future of maritime transport in the region.

Teófila Martínez, President of the Port Authority, highlighted the importance of creating new maritime links with Morocco and the Canary Islands as part of the port’s strategy to boost regional connectivity and trade. Bruno García, Mayor of Cadiz, praised these efforts, describing the port as a “bridge for exchange and cooperation” between the Atlantic and Mediterranean regions.

Mercedes Colombo, Government Delegate of Andalusia, emphasized the collaborative efforts between public administrations, the Port Authority, and the Spanish Association for the Promotion of Short-Distance Maritime Transport (SPC Spain). These partnerships aim to enhance port infrastructure, increase cargo traffic, and position Cadiz as a hub for sustainable maritime transport.

Sustainable and competitive solutions

The conference featured discussions on key topics such as the resurgence of container traffic with Morocco, the advantages of passenger and roll-on/roll-off cargo services to the Canary Islands, investments in port infrastructure, and the decarbonization of maritime transport. Stakeholders also explored synergies between ports, operators, and clients to promote intermodal logistics solutions.

The renewed connection with Morocco is expected to boost trade between Andalusia and North Africa, facilitating the flow of goods and creating opportunities for logistics businesses. The initiative reflects the port's commitment to short-distance maritime transport as an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to road freight, reducing congestion and lowering carbon emissions.

Weather disrupts other maritime routes

Despite the progress, unfavorable weather conditions have temporarily affected maritime traffic in the region. The Spanish port of Tarifa suspended crossings to Tangier from 6:00 p.m. today due to strong winds and rough seas in the Strait of Gibraltar. The Spanish National Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has forecasted rain and wind gusts of up to 70 km/h across the province of Cadiz, leading to further cancellations.

As the Port of Cadiz strengthens its role in maritime trade, the restored connection with Morocco signals a new chapter in regional cooperation and economic growth.