Morocco's ports manage 95% of foreign trade as global ranking improves

Thursday 13 November 2025 - 09:20

By: Dakir Madiha

Morocco's ports manage 95% of foreign trade as global ranking improves

Morocco’s 14 international ports handle the vast majority of the country’s foreign trade, accounting for 95% of overall exchanges, according to Minister of Equipment and Water Nizar Baraka. Speaking during a parliamentary session at the House of Councillors, Baraka highlighted the strong performance of Morocco’s 44 ports, which have propelled the country to 20th place globally in maritime connectivity.

Baraka attributed this achievement to ongoing investments in port infrastructure, which are bolstering Morocco’s position in international trade. He emphasized the significance of Tanger Med, Africa’s largest port, which processed over 10 million containers in 2024.

The minister also provided updates on the Nador West Med port, set to commence operations by the end of 2026. Situated in the Oriental region, this port is expected to serve as a major development hub, featuring an integrated industrial zone designed to attract substantial investment.

Meanwhile, feasibility studies are underway for new port projects, including one in Tan-Tan. Expansion efforts are also ongoing at key ports such as Tanger Med, Jorf Lasfar, Tarfaya, Casablanca, Agadir, and Jebha. Urban port modernization projects have progressed in cities like Al Hoceima, along with redevelopment at Tanger Ville and Casablanca ports. The latter has seen a surge in passenger activity, welcoming over 40,000 passengers in the last two months.

Morocco’s port sector has witnessed marked growth, with overall port traffic reaching 196.8 million tons by the end of September, a significant 11.2% increase from 177 million tons during the same period in 2024. This growth has been fueled by a 15.7% rise in transshipment traffic, which now accounts for nearly half of total port activity at 49.7%. Domestic port traffic has also increased by 7.1%, reaching 98.9 million tons.

Morocco’s ports remain a driving force behind the country’s trade performance, reflecting their critical role in enhancing economic connectivity and global competitiveness.