CMA CGM, a global leader in maritime and logistics solutions, has announced a partnership with Marsa Maroc, the national leader in port terminal management, to develop and operate a section of the Nador West Med container terminal. This strategic joint venture will last for 25 years and will cover an area of 750 meters of quay and 35 hectares of yard.

Major Investments to Increase Capacity

As part of this partnership, CMA CGM and Marsa Maroc will make significant investments totaling280 million dollars. The goal is to increase the terminal’s capacity to1.2 million TEUs(Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) per year, thereby ensuring high-quality service for global maritime transport needs.

The terminal, ideally located in the Betoya Bay near the Kert River estuary, is equipped to accommodate some of the largest container ships in the world, with a maximum depth of18 meters.

Planned Improvements and Modernization

The joint venture aims to significantly modernize the terminal’s infrastructure. Key improvements will include:

• Increasing the number of quay cranesfrom 6 to 8.
• Expanding the fleet of Rubber-Tired Gantry (RTG) cranesfrom 15 to 24.

These enhancements will optimize productivity and ensure efficient operations, positioning Nador West Med as a vital logistics hub in the region.

Strategic Importance of Nador West Med

The location of Nador West Med provides significant advantages for CMA CGM’s operations in the western Mediterranean. Additionally, the terminal aims to become ahub for renewable energy, leveraging Morocco’s potential forgreen hydrogen production. This initiative aligns with global efforts to transition to sustainable energy sources, including e-methane and e-methanol for CMA CGM’s dual-fuel fleet.

Leadership Quotes

Increase in the Number of Quay Cranes from 6 to 8

Rodolphe Saadé, Chairman and CEO of CMA CGM, stated: “Morocco is positioning itself as a strategic logistics and port hub, offering significant growth potential. Our partnership with Marsa Maroc represents a key milestone for CMA CGM, strengthening our presence at the Nador West Med container terminal and supporting the country’s development, particularly in the logistics and alternative energy sectors.”

CMA CGM’s Commitment to Morocco

Present in Morocco since 1983, CMA CGM plays a crucial role in connecting the country to global markets. With over1,300 employeesand31 maritime serviceslinking major Moroccan ports (Agadir, Casablanca, Tanger Med) to81 direct ports, CMA CGM is a leader in maritime transport and logistics.

Through its subsidiary CEVA Logistics, CMA CGM offers comprehensive logistics solutions to its clients in Morocco. The Group also owns 100% of the Casablanca terminal (via SOMAPORT) and 40% of the Eurogate terminal in Tangier.

Conclusion

The joint venture between CMA CGM and Marsa Maroc marks a transformative step for the Nador West Med terminal, reinforcing Morocco’s status as a key player in the global logistics landscape. With substantial investments and planned improvements, the future of the terminal looks promising, ensuring efficient and sustainable operations for years to come.