Morocco's ports navigate smooth waters in 2023, record positive development across sectors

The Ministry of Equipment and Water has reported positive news for Morocco's port traffic in 2023. Total volume surged from 195 million tons in 2022 to 209.4 million tons, representing a healthy 7.4% increase. This growth trend extends across both national and transshipment activities, showcasing the diverse strengths of the Kingdom's maritime infrastructure.

Domestic traffic, excluding transshipment, reached approximately 112.7 million tons, reflecting a 2.3% year-on-year growth. Meanwhile, transshipment activity experienced a more significant 14% increase, contributing 96.7 million tons to the overall volume. This segment now constitutes a considerable 46.2% of the total port traffic, highlighting its growing importance within the maritime ecosystem.

Examining the composition of port traffic, transshipment remains the dominant player at 46.2%. Imports follow closely at 32.1%, with exports occupying 17.2% of the share. Landing activities account for 3.8%, while ship fueling brings in the remaining 0.8%.

Several key sectors within the port landscape witnessed noteworthy developments in 2023.

Solidifying its position as a major logistical hub in the Mediterranean, Tangier Med Port saw a 13.7% surge in container transshipment and a 17.5% increase in fuel transshipment, solidifying its regional significance.

Imports maintained stability at 67.2 million tons, observing increases in grains, sulfur, and fuels. However, a slight decline was noted in coal and phosphate imports.

Exports experienced a positive 3.5% growth, reaching 36 million tons. This rise was driven primarily by fertilizers and clinker exports, although decreases in phosphate and sulfuric acid offset some of the gains.

Clearance activities witnessed a moderate 2.7% increase, reaching 7.9 million tons. This growth can be attributed to a rise in container clearing and fuel-related activities.

Despite a noticeable 8.2% decrease in ship fueling activities, resulting in a volume of 1.7 million tons, the sector continues to play a vital role in supporting maritime navigation.

New vehicle imports experienced a remarkable 16% surge, with a total of 673,630 units imported. Notably, 77% of these vehicles were subsequently exported, highlighting Morocco's growing role in the vehicle trade.

A significant 39.1% increase in passenger traffic was recorded, bringing the total to 4,785,223 individuals. The ports of Nador, Tangier Med, and Tangier Medina were responsible for handling over 98% of this influx.

The tourist cruise activity enjoyed a significant revival, with a 91.9% increase in cruise ship arrivals, translating to 192,996 passengers. This positive development bodes well for the future of tourism in Morocco.

While coastal and traditional fishing experienced an 11% decline in volume, reaching 1.35 million tons, it remains a crucial contributor to the national economy and food security.

Commercial ship arrivals witnessed a substantial 16% increase, with over 27,900 vessels navigating through Moroccan ports. This growth underscores the growing importance of Morocco as a maritime hub.