U.S. maritime policy shift creates strategic advantage for Moroccan ports
A significant shift in U.S. maritime regulations has positioned Morocco as a key beneficiary in global shipping routes, reports Les Inspirations Eco in its January 29 edition. The Federal Maritime Commission’s recent decision requiring specific shipping companies to route through Moroccan ports has created unprecedented opportunities for the Kingdom’s maritime infrastructure, particularly the Tanger Med port complex.
Maritime expert Professor Najib Cherfaoui, speaking to Les Inspirations Eco, explains that the policy change stems from post-pandemic shipping reforms: “This legislation reinforces the Federal Maritime Commission’s regulatory powers. The objective is to prevent shipping practices from harming U.S. foreign trade. The FMC can now request documents related to transactions conducted outside the United States, directly impacting the global maritime transport system by establishing fairer pricing.”
The impact of this regulatory shift has generated dual advantages for Morocco’s maritime sector. Most notably, shipping costs have experienced a dramatic decline, with container prices from China to Morocco plummeting from $25,000 to $4,000 for a 40-foot unit. Additionally, the FMC now possesses the authority to intervene in cases of shipping delays affecting Moroccan-U.S. trade routes, significantly enhancing the reliability of perishable goods transportation between the two nations.
Tanger Med port has emerged as a primary beneficiary of these developments. The Port has recently surpassed the milestone of 10 million containers processed. However, this surge in activity has prompted discussions about capacity constraints. Professor Cherfaoui notes, “There remain 800 meters of quays to be developed by 2025, which would bring capacity to 12 million TEUs.” However, he warns that natural saturation could be reached as early as 2027.
Looking ahead to 2028, maritime authorities are evaluating various expansion strategies. As Les Inspirations Eco reports, two potential sites are under consideration: an eastern location near Fnideq and Tetouan, and a western site between Malabata and Fardioua, where natural conditions are particularly favorable. The publication also notes that expansion might necessitate a return to Tangier City operations.
The implications of these developments extend beyond Morocco’s borders, positioning the country as an increasingly important player in global maritime logistics. According to the paper, long-term planning includes proposals to transform the Tanger Med Special Agency (TMSA) into a shipping operator, potentially enabling international port expansion and addressing the approaching 2035 concession renewals.
Maritime experts suggest this could mark the beginning of a new era in Mediterranean shipping, with Morocco potentially emerging as a dominant force in international maritime trade. The country’s geographic position, combined with these favorable regulatory changes and ongoing infrastructure developments, creates a unique opportunity for sustained growth in the maritime sector.