Rabat – Under the High Patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, a pivotal working meeting was convened at the Royal Palace in Casablanca to review the final preparations for the operational launch of the Nador West Med port and industrial complex. This meeting underscores the Royal Vision to strategically position the Kingdom as a global logistics and industrial leader while fostering sustainable and inclusive economic growth.
A Royal Vision for Global Economic Integration
The session, held ahead of the complex’s scheduled operational launch in the fourth quarter of 2026, reaffirms the Sovereign’s directive to anchor Morocco durably within global value chains. By developing world-class infrastructure, the Kingdom enhances its competitiveness, stimulates job creation, and promotes balanced territorial development—a cornerstone of the Royal economic agenda.
Building on a Proven Model of Success
Following a detailed presentation by Mr. Fouad Brini, Chairman of the Board of Nador West Med, His Majesty was apprised of the project’s advanced progress. Nador West Med extends the resounding success of Tanger Med, now Africa and the Mediterranean’s premier port hub. This new complex embodies a strategic Royal Ambition to construct an efficient, complementary national port system, reinforcing Morocco’s logistical sovereignty and economic resilience.
A Next-Generation Integrated Platform
Designed as a fully integrated ecosystem, Nador West Med combines a cutting-edge port complex with a vast industrial, logistics, and energy platform. To date, the project has mobilized a total investment of 51 billion Moroccan Dirhams (MAD).
- Port Infrastructure Complete: All essential port infrastructure is now finalized, including 5.4 kilometers of breakwaters, 4 kilometers of quays, and 4 power stations. Concession contracts for two container terminals have been signed and will commence phased activation this year.
- A Strategic Energy Hub: Introducing a critical energy component, the complex will host the Kingdom’s first Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) terminal, with an annual capacity of 5 billion cubic meters, alongside a dedicated hydrocarbon terminal. This hub is central to strengthening Morocco’s energy security and sovereignty.
Unprecedented Scale and Investor Confidence
Upon launch, the port will possess an initial annual capacity of 5 million containers and 35 million tonnes of liquid and solid bulk. Its full development potential expands to 12 million containers and an additional 15 million tonnes of liquid bulk annually.
Adjacent to the port, new activity zones spanning 700 hectares in their first phase are already attracting major international operators. The significant private investment secured thus far—amounting to 20 billion MAD—stands as a testament to the robust confidence placed in Morocco’s stability and vision by leading global maritime and industrial entities.
Royal Directives for Inclusive and Sustainable Development
Concluding the meeting, His Majesty King Mohammed VI issued High Instructions to ensure the project’s success yields broad and lasting benefits:
- Optimal Operational Launch: All necessary measures are to be taken to guarantee a seamless and successful inauguration.
- Human Capital Development: The rapid implementation of specialized training programs is mandated to support investors, facilitate youth integration, and enhance employability.
- Regional Prosperity & Sustainability: The economic impact must directly benefit all provinces within the project’s zone of influence. This is to be supported by territorial upgrading programs that improve quality of life and a multidimensional action plan ensuring the project’s sustainable future development.
The working meeting was attended by:
- Mr. Abdelouafi Laftit, Minister of the Interior
- Mrs. Nadia Fettah, Minister of Economy and Finance
- Mr. Nizar Baraka, Minister of Equipment and Water
- Mr. Ryad Mezzour, Minister of Industry and Trade
- Mrs. Leila Benali, Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development
- Mr. Fouad Brini, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Nador West Med
BY: The Times Union
