Mohammed VI inaugurates key projects for the development of the Casablanca port complex
Within the framework of his commitment to the economic and tourist development of Morocco, Mohammed VI has led the inauguration and visit of multiple flagship projects in the Casablanca Port Complex. These initiatives seek to strengthen Casablanca's strategic position as an economic hub and a first-rate tourist destination.
With investments amounting to hundreds of millions of dollars, the projects range from the modernization of port infrastructures to the boosting of the tourism sector through the construction of new terminals and administrative complexes. These efforts reflect the Moroccan monarch's vision of transforming Casablanca into a modern and internationally competitive metropolis.
These significant developments represent a substantial investment in Casablanca's future, aiming to enhance its role as a key player in both regional and global economies.
Modernization of the Fishing Port
The monarch inaugurated a renovated fishing port valued at $120 million, designed to improve safety and working conditions for Casablanca's fishermen. This port houses more than 260 artisanal fishing vessels and nearly 100 coastal fishing vessels, equipped with modern facilities for the marketing of seafood products.
Among the new infrastructures are a state-of-the-art fish market located near the unloading areas, a standardized container management unit, three ice-making units, as well as premises for shipowners, wholesalers, and boatmen. In addition, a sailor reception center has been established, facilitating better organization of the artisanal and coastal fishing sector.
New Port Shipyard
Likewise, Mohammed VI visited the newly inaugurated Casablanca port shipyard, an investment of approximately $250 million aimed at restructuring and expanding the shipbuilding and repair sector in Morocco. This shipyard seeks to attract greater investment, meet national and international demand, and consolidate the country's position in the global market.
The project includes the construction of a dry dock 240 meters long, 40 meters wide, and 8.10 meters deep, capable of accommodating vessels up to 220 meters long and 32 meters wide. Furthermore, a 150-meter by 28-meter lifting platform with a capacity of 9,700 tons has been installed, as well as a 60-meter-long dock, 13 meters wide and 8.7 meters deep, equipped with a 450-ton sling lift.
Cruise Terminal
The Sovereign also launched the new cruise terminal at the Port of Casablanca, a $72 million investment aimed at boosting the tourism sector, especially cruise tourism. This terminal complies with international standards and is designed to receive up to 450,000 passengers annually from cruise ships up to 350 meters long and 45 meters wide.
The terminal has a modern maritime station, a landing pier of approximately 650 meters, and three gangways, one fixed and two mobile. In addition, a parking area with capacity for 44 coaches has been enabled, facilitating access and movement for cruise passengers, which will significantly contribute to increasing the tourist attraction of the metropolis.
Administrative Complex
The new administrative complex, with an investment of $50 million, integrates all the actors of the Port of Casablanca in one location. This complex aims to optimize port spaces by grouping services that were previously scattered, such as the port authority, customs, operators, and handlers.
The consolidation of these services not only improves the quality of service offered to port users but also ensures better integration of the port into the urban environment. This centralization facilitates more efficient and cohesive management of port operations, aligning with Mohammed VI's vision of modernizing and revitalizing the Casablanca port complex.