Marsa Maroc and CMA CGM Partner at Nador West Med Terminal
Marsa Maroc Finalizes CMA Terminals’ Entry into Nador Container Terminal
The Moroccan port operator Marsa Maroc has completed the entry of CMA Terminals, a subsidiary of the French group CMA CGM, into the capital of Nador Container Terminal (NCT). This strategic partnership is set to facilitate the development of the Nador West Med container terminal, scheduled for commissioning in 2027.
CMA Terminals Acquires 49% Stake in Nador Container Terminal
On Thursday, October 15, 2026, Marsa Maroc announced the finalization of CMA Terminals’ acquisition of a stake in Nador Container Terminal, following the receipt of the necessary regulatory approvals. As a result of this transaction, the CMA CGM subsidiary now holds a 49% stake and voting rights in NCT. In contrast, Marsa Maroc maintains a majority share of 51%, allowing it to retain control over the company responsible for terminal operations.
This transaction solidifies the agreement made between the two partners in October 2025 and signifies a new milestone in the development of the Nador West Med port complex, which is expected to enhance Morocco’s logistical and maritime capabilities.
A Container Terminal Scheduled to Open in 2027
The future Nador West Med west terminal will feature infrastructure designed to accommodate large container ships and facilitate large-scale handling operations. The project includes 900 meters of quay, with a water depth of 18 meters, alongside 37.5 hectares of land dedicated to port operations and container storage.
Ultimately, Nador Container Terminal is projected to achieve an annual handling capacity of 1.8 million Twenty-foot Equivalent Units (TEUs), a standard measurement used in maritime transport to quantify container volumes. The operational launch of this infrastructure is anticipated for 2027, contributing to the growth of containerized cargo activities and enhancing the position of Nador West Med in international maritime trade.
CMA Terminals Brings International Expertise
CMA Terminals’ investment in NCT allows Marsa Maroc to partner with a leading player specialized in the development and management of container terminals. A subsidiary of CMA CGM, recognized as the world’s third-largest shipping company, CMA Terminals operates in various ports globally. According to information provided by Marsa Maroc, its portfolio comprises 66 port assets, positioning it among the world’s top eight container terminal operators.
In 2025, the CMA CGM group reportedly handled approximately 52 million TEUs, showcasing its extensive experience in managing maritime transport infrastructures. This partnership thus combines Marsa Maroc’s port operational expertise with the operational capabilities and international know-how of CMA Terminals, particularly within the context of ongoing logistics infrastructure development in Morocco.
Marsa Maroc Continues with the "Marsa 2030" Development Program
This operation aligns with Marsa Maroc’s growth strategy, driven by its "Marsa 2030" program, which outlines plans for large-scale port projects and strengthening partnerships with international operators. The Moroccan company currently operates 36 terminals across 21 ports, handling an annual traffic exceeding 67 million tons, as highlighted in its official statement.
With the completion of CMA Terminals’ entry into the capital of Nador Container Terminal, Marsa Maroc takes another significant step towards implementing its development strategy. The future terminal at Nador West Med is a crucial project for enhancing national port capacities. Its expected commissioning in 2027 will increase container handling capacity and support the evolution of maritime trade exchanges.
