…As port of Nador attracts investment

In June 2024, Moroccan port operator, Marsa Maroc, was awarded a 25-year concession for the East Container Terminal (ECT/TC1) at the port Nador. At full build out, ECT/TC1 will offer 1520m of quay, with a depth alongside of 18m and a 35ha storage area.

In the latter part of 2024, Marsa Maroc confirmed a 51%/49% joint venture with CMA CGM which will see the French shipping line operate and equip half of the ECT/TC1 facility with eight ship-to-shore cranes.

Now, Terminal Investment Limited (TiL), the port investment and operating subsidiary of MSC, has acquired a 50% minority share (less one share) that will see TiL equip and operate the remaining 750m of the facility to replicate what CMA CGM has agreed to do.

Morocco is clearly attempting to replicate the success of Tanger Med with a similar and second West Med hub 250km to the east.

Marsa Maroc has confirmed its intention to commission Nador West Med’s ECT/TC1 in phases, with operations commencing in 2027. There is also interest in developing a second, albeit smaller, container terminal later, currently dubbed as the West Container Terminal (WCT or TC2). No development dates are currently known.