Spain’s port official commends Morocco’s advanced port infrastructure

Santiago J. Castella Surribas, president of the Port of Tarragona in Spain, recently lauded Morocco’s impressive progress in port infrastructure, recognizing the country’s significant advancements in the sector over the past 25 years. According to Castella, Morocco has successfully modernized its infrastructure to secure a strategic position in global trade.

Castella made these remarks during a meeting with Morocco’s ambassador to Spain, Karima Benyaich. He highlighted the strategic positioning of Morocco's ports and emphasized the importance of fostering closer cooperation between Spain and Morocco to leverage shared opportunities for mutual development.

In addition to his meeting with Benyaich, Castella met with several Spanish officials, including the Mayor of Tarragona and the Mayor of Cambrils. Discussions centered on the role of the Moroccan diaspora in Catalonia, reinforcing the cultural and economic ties between the two countries.

Morocco is home to major ports, including Tanger Med Port, which reported impressive results in the 2024 fiscal year. The port generated $1.212 billion in revenue, reflecting a 12.3% increase from the previous year. With a handling capacity of 10.24 million twenty-foot equivalent units, Tanger Med reaffirmed its position as a regional hub and a key player in international trade. A recent ranking by Alphaliner placed Tanger Med at 17th globally, underscoring its growing significance.

However, Spain has expressed concern in recent years about Morocco’s increasing dominance in port activities, particularly as the North African nation’s port infrastructure has begun to outperform Spanish hubs. The Spanish media outlet El País reported in 2021 that the performance of Moroccan ports, especially since the inauguration of Tanger Med in 2007 by King Mohammed VI, has had a "negative" impact on Spanish ports.

While these concerns reflect ongoing competition, they also underscore Morocco’s growing influence in the international logistics and trade sectors, with Spanish officials acknowledging the need to strengthen collaboration to optimize benefits for both nations.