Morocco advances major port projects, targets 34,000 jobs at Nador West Med

Morocco is preparing to open the first terminal at its Nador West Med port complex and begin a major expansion of Tanger Med, strengthening its position in global trade and logistics. King Mohammed VI reviewed progress on both projects during a working session at the Royal Palace in Rabat on October 28, 2026. The Nador West Med complex has attracted 54 billion dirhams in public and private investment.

It combines port infrastructure with industrial, logistics and energy facilities. Its first container terminal is expected to begin operations shortly, with an eventual capacity of 3.5 million containers. A second terminal, capable of handling 1.8 million containers, is scheduled to enter service in April 2027. Together, the two terminals represent 8 billion dirhams in private investment.

The complex is expected to create 14,000 direct jobs and 20,000 indirect jobs in the short term. Its industrial zone is already operational, with one factory active and three others under construction. Energy and transport links Nador West Med will also include a hydrocarbon terminal supported by a storage area with a potential capacity of four million cubic metres.

A liquefied natural gas terminal is planned to process up to five billion cubic metres annually. The energy facilities are intended to strengthen Morocco’s energy security. The port’s facilities will also include terminals for solid bulk and general cargo. Supporting transport projects include the Selouane–Nador West Med railway link, the Guercif–Nador West Med highway and upgrades to surrounding roads.

These connections are intended to improve access to the complex and strengthen links with neighbouring communities. Tanger Med expansion The working session also reviewed plans for Tanger Med 3, a new port to the west of Tanger Med 2. The project will add 1,200 metres of quays and an annual capacity of 4.5 million containers, at an investment cost of 8 billion dirhams.

A concession agreement has been signed with Maersk-APM to develop the new container terminal. The expansion also includes ongoing work on the passenger and roll-on/roll-off port, along with provisions for the eastern extension of Tanger Med 2. Once the new projects are completed, the Tanger Med complex could reach a total capacity of 20 million containers, potentially placing it among the world’s top 10 ports.

Focus on local benefits The projects form part of Morocco’s efforts to improve competitiveness, attract private investment and spread economic opportunities across its regions. At the close of the session, King Mohammed VI stressed that the economic and social benefits must reach the provinces concerned and produce tangible improvements for residents.

He also called for faster implementation of training programmes suited to the emerging industries, with a focus on helping young people secure employment. Fouad Brini, Chairman of TMSA’s Oversight Board and the Nador West Med Board of Administration, presented progress reports and the next stages of development. Royal adviser Fouad Ali El Himma and ministers responsible for the interior, finance, infrastructure, and industry attended the meeting.