Morocco is preparing to bring its second Mediterranean deepwater port, Nador West Med, into operation in the fourth quarter of the year, a strategic move aimed at reinforcing the country’s growing influence in global trade and energy logistics.
The $5.6 billion project follows the success of Tanger Med, currently Africa’s largest port and one of the Mediterranean’s busiest shipping hubs.
According to Reuters, Nador West Med will begin operations with the capacity to handle 5 million containers annually, with plans to scale up to 12 million containers as demand increases.
The Moroccan royal palace confirmed the expansion plans after a meeting chaired by King Mohammed VI.
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Designed as a multi-purpose maritime complex, the port features extensive infrastructure, including 5.4 kilometres of breakwaters, four kilometres of quays, and four power stations.
Authorities say the development is central to Morocco’s ambition to position itself as a major gateway for regional and international trade routes.
A key pillar of the project is energy infrastructure. Nador West Med will host Morocco’s first liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal, with an annual capacity of 5 billion cubic metres, alongside a dedicated hydrocarbons terminal.
These facilities are expected to bolster the country’s energy security while supporting industrial and economic growth.
Beyond port operations, the project includes a 700-hectare industrial and logistics zone.
The palace said the area has already attracted 20 billion dirhams in private investment, reflecting strong interest from manufacturers and logistics firms seeking access to global markets.
Once fully operational, Nador West Med is expected to complement Tanger Med, strengthening Morocco’s position as a regional hub for trade, energy, and logistics along major Mediterranean and transcontinental shipping corridors.
