Morocco has inaugurated the first container terminal at Nador West Med, marking a major milestone in the development of a new port and industrial hub backed by investments of 54 billion dirhams (US$5.49 billion).
Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan inaugurated the East Container Terminal on October 31, 2026, on the instructions of King Mohammed VI. The project represents a significant step in Morocco’s efforts to strengthen its position as a strategic maritime and logistics gateway connecting Europe, Africa and Asia.
The East Container Terminal, operated by Marsa Maroc in partnership with Terminal Investment Limited (TIL), a subsidiary of MSC, involves an investment of 5 billion dirhams (US$508 million). The facility features 1,520 metres of quay and a water depth of 18 metres, with a planned annual handling capacity of 3.5 million TEUs by 2030.
The port’s second facility, the West Container Terminal, is scheduled to become operational in April 2027. Operated by Marsa Maroc and CMA CGM, the terminal involves an investment of 3 billion dirhams (US$305 million). Once operational, it will increase the port complex’s total container handling capacity to 5.3 million TEUs annually.
Beyond container operations, Nador West Med is being developed as an integrated energy, industrial and logistics hub. Its infrastructure includes facilities designed to handle 25 million tonnes of hydrocarbons and 5 billion cubic metres of liquefied natural gas.
The project also incorporates a 700-hectare industrial and logistics zone, which is expected to generate around 34,000 direct and indirect jobs in the short term.
The overall investment of 54 billion dirhams includes 31 billion dirhams (US$3.15 billion) in public funding and 23 billion dirhams (US$2.34 billion) in private investment, highlighting the scale of public-private participation in the development.
Together with the established Tanger Med port, Nador West Med is expected to strengthen Morocco’s maritime infrastructure, expand its container handling capabilities and enhance its competitiveness in international trade and global supply chains.