Marsa Maroc, Morocco’s leading port operator, is expanding its African logistics presence by establishing three new international subsidiaries. The move involves setting up Marsa Djokovic and Marsa Benin to enhance operations in key markets. The company continues to perform well financially, securing funding to support its growth strategy.
Marsa Maroc, Morocco’s premier port operator, is enhancing its logistics footprint in Africa by launching three new international subsidiaries following government approval. The initiative concentrates on Marsa Maroc International Logistics, which has been capitalized at MAD 300 million ($30 million). This main entity will direct Marsa Maroc’s international investment ventures, establishing specialized branches such as Marsa Djibouti and Marsa Benin.
In East Africa, Marsa Djibouti will invest in Damerjog Oil Jetty FZE, tasked with developing a petroleum terminal in Djibouti’s free zone. This strategic acquisition intends to capitalize on the logistics demand for petroleum product storage and reloading, specifically targeting the Ethiopian and Djibouti markets. Conversely, Marsa Benin has secured a management agreement for terminals 1 and 5 at the Port of Cotonou with Benin Manutentions SA, enabling access to lucrative West African markets such as Nigeria, Niger, and Burkina Faso.
Marsa Maroc boasts a robust domestic operation, managing 25 terminals across 11 Moroccan ports, including key facilities at Tanger Med and Casablanca. The company plans to further expand domestically, having recently acquired the rights to operate a new container terminal at the Nador West Med port, which is projected to handle over three million twenty-foot equivalent units, scheduled to commence in mid-2026.
Financially, Marsa Maroc is performing well, reporting MAD 852 million ($85.2 million) in profits last year, reflecting a 5% increase year-on-year. To bolster its growth, the company has secured MAD 690 million ($69 million) from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, aimed at enhancing its terminal capacity. With 25% state ownership, the firm continues to expand its regional influence.
The recent establishment of subsidiaries, each capitalized at MAD 300,000 ($30,000), signifies a pivotal move in Marsa Maroc’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 approach highlights the firm’s focus on diversifying its portfolio while cultivating strengths through local partnerships. The expansion mirrors Marsa Maroc’s increasing prominence in African logistics as it explores further growth possibilities through public-private partnerships for port management in other nations.
Marsa Maroc’s recent expansion into Djibouti and Benin through new subsidiaries exemplifies its strategic growth plans within the African logistics sector. The establishment of Marsa Djibouti and Marsa Benin reflects the company’s intent to tap into key markets and enhance its operational capabilities. Coupled with a strong financial background and continued domestic growth, Marsa Maroc is poised to significantly strengthen its influence across the African continent.
Original Source: moroccoworldnews.com
