Morocco has signed three agreements in Dakhla to enhance logistics and trade infrastructure, aiming to establish 750 hectares of logistics areas by 2028 as part of a national strategy for logistics competitiveness. These developments include the Dakhla Atlantic Port, set to open in 2028, and align with King Mohammed VI's vision and the 2015 Development Model for the Southern Provinces.
Morocco Advances Logistics and Trade Infrastructure in Dakhla with New Agreements
Morocco has signed three significant agreements in Dakhla, aimed at enhancing logistics and trade infrastructure as part of a broader national strategy to improve logistics competitiveness. This initiative is expected to transform the region's economic landscape, aligning with the vision of King Mohammed VI and the goals set out in the 2015 Development Model for the Southern Provinces.
Strategic Development Plans
The agreements are set to establish 750 hectares of logistics areas by the year 2028, which will bolster trade efficiency and regional economic growth. These developments include an economic zone in Aargoub covering 20 hectares and the Kerkrate Road Center located on a two-hectare site, with a particular focus on road safety and traffic organization.
A dedicated trade zone in Guerguerat is also planned to support foreign trade activities. These projects are part of an integrated logistics system intended to support regional projects, emphasizing the strategic significance of Dakhla as a pivotal location for trade.
Infrastructure and Regional Integration
The Dakhla Atlantic Port, one of Africa's largest, is a cornerstone of these infrastructure enhancements. The port, which will open in 2028, is designed to reshape development in the southern provinces. It will encompass 1,650 hectares with a depth of 23 meters, and its surrounding infrastructure will include 1,600 hectares allocated for industrial activities.
Additionally, the Tiznit-Dakhla Expressway, stretching 1,055 kilometers, will further integrate the region into the national and international logistics network, facilitating better supply chain management and boosting Morocco's logistics capabilities.
Renewable Energy and Environmental Considerations
The new port agreements also emphasize Morocco's commitment to renewable energy. The ports will feature quays designed for the export of green hydrogen, aligning with the country's renewable energy strategy. This initiative supports Morocco's goal of enhancing its logistics infrastructure while also contributing to environmental sustainability.
Morocco's extensive Atlantic and Mediterranean coastline, spanning 3,500 kilometers, plays a crucial role in handling 95% of the nation's foreign trade. The development of these ports is crucial for maintaining and expanding this trade capacity.
Future Prospects and National Goals
Construction progress on the Dakhla Atlantique port is currently on schedule, with completion expected by 2028. The port's development is part of Morocco's broader economic strategy to boost trade infrastructure and logistics capabilities, which are pivotal for the country's economic growth and competitiveness on a global scale.
With additional evaluations of port development in locations such as Tan-Tan, and the establishment of Morocco's third deepwater port at Nador West Med, the nation is poised to enhance its standing as a key player in international trade. The port area at Nador West Med includes 800 hectares dedicated to industrial activities, further underscoring Morocco's commitment to expanding its logistics and trade infrastructure.
These infrastructure improvements represent a significant step forward in Morocco's efforts to enhance its logistics capabilities, improve trade efficiency, and support regional economic growth, all of which are aligned with the nation's strategic economic objectives.