The ANP and AFD Sign a Third Financing Deal of 100 Million Euros for Moroccan Ports

ANP and AFD Sign Joint Declaration for €100 Million Investment in Moroccan Ports

The National Ports Agency (ANP) and the French Development Agency (AFD) signed a joint declaration on Tuesday in Rabat, securing a third round of financing amounting to €100 million. This financial support is aimed at bolstering the development of the southern provinces and transitioning to greener ports.

The agreement was formalized by ANP’s Director General, Mustapha Farès, and the AFD Director in Morocco, Catherine Bonnaud, with notable attendees including the Minister of Equipment and Water, Nizar Baraka, and the French Ambassador to Morocco, Philippe Lalliot.

This new funding is part of the ANP’s investment program for the period 2023-2030. On this occasion, Nizar Baraka emphasized that this partnership reflects the continuity of cooperation based on mutual trust and support for the transformations taking place within Morocco’s port sector.

The Minister spotlighted the ongoing projects in the southern provinces, particularly in Tan-Tan, Tarfaya, Laâyoune, Boujdour, Dakhla, and Lamhiriz. The investments aim to enhance port infrastructure, improve connectivity in these areas, and support their integration into national and Atlantic economic exchanges.

According to Nizar Baraka, these initiatives are in line with the developmental momentum of the southern provinces and the goal of reinforcing the Kingdom’s Atlantic role. They are also intended to transform the African Atlantic coastline into a hub for connectivity, economic integration, and South-South cooperation.

French Ambassador Philippe Lalliot emphasized the strategic importance of port infrastructure for Morocco’s economy, while also addressing the challenges of adapting to climate change. He specifically pointed out the need to protect coastal facilities from rising sea levels and significant wave events, as well as the necessity of integrating environmental and social concerns into port projects.

A 13-Year Loan Without State Guarantee

The financing will take the form of a non-sovereign subsidized loan, with a 13-year term and without a state guarantee. It focuses on four main areas: the rehabilitation and strengthening of port infrastructures, the development of renewable energy and unconventional water desalination, the modernization of fishing ports, and the decarbonization and electrification of docks.

This third round of financial support further promotes ANP investments in modernizing infrastructures and enhancing their environmental performance.

It also fulfills commitments made during the state visit of the French president to Morocco on October 28, 2024, signaling the continued economic cooperation between the two countries.