Tanger Med is a global success story. In just a few years, Morocco has built a world-class port complex, a key driver of its economy and a critical logistics hub on international trade routes. Year after year, Tanger Med surpasses expectations, proving that Morocco has skillfully anticipated the shifting dynamics of global maritime commerce.
However, success comes at a cost. Tanger Med is now operating beyond its initial capacity. In 2024, the port processed over 10.2 million containers, exceeding its 9 million TEU nominal capacity, marking a staggering 18.8% increase from 2023. This remarkable growth underscores the port’s rising global appeal and operational excellence, but also presents a major challenge: how to continue expanding without congestion?
Morocco has always looked to the future, and now is the time to prepare for the next phase of this expansion: Tanger Med 3.
Tanger Med is more than just a port—it is a highly strategic global logistics hub. In 2024, it handled 142 million tons of cargo, a 16.2% year-on-year increase. This impressive performance reinforces Morocco’s strategic positioning, but also raises an urgent question: How much longer can the port sustain such rapid growth without compromising efficiency?
Projections indicate that by 2028, Tanger Med will reach full saturation—a testament to its success but also a call to action. To maintain its competitive edge and fluidity, Morocco must invest in new infrastructure to meet the growing demands of global trade.
Tanger Med 2 has played a vital role in absorbing increased traffic, but geographic constraints limit further expansion. To the west, a cliff, to the east, a bathymetric line, and to the south, the Ghlala River, all create natural barriers. Tanger Med 3 is the logical solution, ensuring Morocco retains its position as a leading global trade hub.
However, building a new terminal is a long-term endeavor. Studies, financing, and construction require years of planning and execution. Delaying action now risks bottlenecking the entire system, slowing trade and hindering economic growth.
A congested port is an inefficient port. Tanger Med’s fluidity is its strongest asset, enabling shipping giants to optimize costs and transit times. If this competitive advantage is lost, shipping companies may shift to alternative hubs in Europe or the Middle East.
Expanding Tanger Med is not just about maritime trade—it’s about strengthening Morocco’s entire economy. A larger, more efficient port attracts more foreign investment, boosts exports, and supports key industries like automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing.
The expansion must also come with an evolution of the Tanger Med Special Agency (TMSA). So far, TMSA has excelled in port management, turning Tanger Med into a global benchmark. But to secure Morocco’s long-term maritime sovereignty, TMSA must go further.
Major hubs like Singapore and Rotterdam don’t just manage infrastructure—they operate their own fleets. If TMSA were to become an armator (shipowner), Morocco could secure its own trade routes, reduce dependency on foreign carriers, and gain greater control over shipping logistics.
This strategy would bring greater flexibility, increased market autonomy, and protection against global trade disruptions. While ambitious, this move would significantly enhance Morocco’s economic and logistical power.
While Tanger Med 3 is a top priority, the Nador West Med port could play a supporting role in expanding Morocco’s port capacity. Located on the Mediterranean coast, Nador West Med is under development and could absorb part of the country’s growing container and hydrocarbon traffic.
However, Nador West Med alone cannot relieve the immense pressure on Tanger Med. Its infrastructure and global connectivity do not yet match Tanger Med’s strategic positioning, making it a complementary solution rather than a substitute.
Tanger Med is already a success—but Tanger Med 3 is the next logical step. By initiating its expansion now, Morocco sends a clear message to the world: this is a country that anticipates, innovates, and builds its future with ambition.
The decisions made today will determine Morocco’s place in global trade for decades to come. Tanger Med 3 is not just an expansion—it’s a vision for the future.
Mohamed MOUNADI
