Marsa Maroc is expanding its African logistics operations by establishing three new subsidiaries: Marsa Djibouti and Marsa Benin under a parent entity, Marsa Maroc International Logistics. These subsidiaries aim to enhance operations in petroleum management and access to West African markets. This strategic move comes on the heels of significant domestic operations and strong financial performance, indicating Marsa Maroc’s commitment to growing its presence in the African continent.
Marsa Maroc, Morocco’s premier port operator, is set to enhance its footprint in African logistics by launching three new international subsidiaries, following a government authorization published in the Official Gazette. The expansion initiative will establish Marsa Maroc International Logistics, with a capital of MAD 300 million (approximately $30 million), which aims to manage the company’s international investment ventures.
The parent entity will supervise two specialized subsidiaries: Marsa Djibouti and Marsa Benin. Marsa Djibouti is expected to acquire a stake in Damerjog Oil Jetty FZE, a venture focused on developing and managing a petroleum terminal in Djibouti’s free zone. This strategic investment is tailored to harness substantial logistics activities related to petroleum product storage, specifically targeting markets in Ethiopia and Djibouti.
On the other hand, Marsa Benin will oversee operations at terminals 1 and 5 of the Port of Cotonou through a partnership with Benin Manutentions SA. This advantageous position along the Atlantic coast allows Marsa Maroc to access critical West African markets, including Nigeria, Niger, and Burkina Faso.
Building upon its robust domestic infrastructure, Marsa Maroc currently manages 25 terminals across 11 Moroccan ports, including the significant Tanger Med 1 and Casablanca facilities. Furthermore, the firm is poised for additional domestic growth with a recent agreement to operate a container terminal at the Nador West Med port, which is projected to exceed three million twenty-foot equivalent units in capacity, slated to commence operations in mid-2026.
Reflecting its strong market presence, Marsa Maroc reported profits of MAD 852 million ($85.2 million) in the previous fiscal year, representing a 5% increase from the prior year. The company has secured MAD 690 million ($69 million) from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development to bolster its terminal capacity, marking a proactive approach to its expansion efforts.
Marsa Maroc, which is 25% state-owned and has Tanger Med Port holding a 35% stake, is committed to extending its influence across the African continent. The establishment of its new subsidiaries, each with a capital of MAD 300,000 ($30,000), signifies a crucial advancement in the company’s continental growth strategy.
According to Les Inspirations Éco, “From a strategic perspective, the creation of these subsidiaries aligns with Marsa Maroc’s roadmap to become a key player in port infrastructure management and logistics services across the African continent.” This strategy not only reflects a commitment to portfolio diversification but also emphasizes collaboration with local partners.
Marsa Maroc’s expansion depicts its increasing significance in African logistics, with ongoing explorations for further growth through public-private partnerships aimed at port management across other African nations.
Marsa Maroc’s expansion into Djibouti and Benin symbolizes a strategic enhancement of its operations across Africa. With new subsidiaries focusing on petroleum logistics and access to vital markets, the company reinforces its commitment to robust regional growth. The financial backing from key partners further underscores its proactive approach to logistics management in the continent. Overall, this expansion not only diversifies its portfolio but also consolidates its presence in the African logistics sector.
Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com
