Morocco’s Ports Transformed: A Major Step in Port Sector Reform

The House of Representatives approved bill No. 34.25 on Monday, which aims to transform the National Ports Agency (ANP) into a public limited company. The proposal received approval from 80 deputies, with only two votes against it, marking a significant milestone in the reform of Morocco’s port sector.

This legislation also includes amendments to law No. 15.02 pertaining to ports, which established the ANP as well as the Port Operating Company.

A New Entity: Ports of Morocco SA

At the heart of this reform is the transformation of the ANP into a company named "Ports of Morocco SA," with its capital fully owned by the state. According to the government, this change aims to modernize governance in the port sector, enhance management quality, and improve operational flexibility and efficiency.

A Reform in Step with Public Institution Modernization

Before the deputies, Minister of Equipment and Water Nizar Baraka explained that this transformation aligns with the government’s ongoing policy to convert certain public institutions into public limited companies. He assured that the acquired rights of ANP employees will be preserved while fostering the development of their skills and professional journeys.

Governance Aligned with Public Limited Company Standards

The future entity, Ports of Morocco SA, will have a board of directors that includes independent members. Operational management will be entrusted to a general director, in line with standard governance practices for public limited companies. This new structure aims to enhance management performance while maintaining public oversight of capital and strategic directions.

Expanded Missions for the New Port Company

Ports of Morocco SA will be responsible, on behalf of the state, for the management, development, maintenance, and promotion of the kingdom’s ports. However, certain exceptions will apply, particularly for the ports located within the special development zone of Tanger Med and those situated in the Marchica lagoon area.

A Comprehensive Mission for Port Management and Regulation

The proposed law delegates several strategic missions to the new entity, including the development of internal port layout plans, the establishment of operating regulations, and the management of port authorizations and concessions. The company will also oversee the granting of temporary occupancy permits for public lands and will be responsible for monitoring operators benefiting from these permits.

A Structural Reform for the Moroccan Port Sector

Through this transformation, Morocco is modernizing its port sector by adopting a more flexible and high-performing governance model, while still ensuring strategic guidance from the state. This reform is part of a broader initiative to modernize infrastructure and enhance the logistical competitiveness of the kingdom.