In today’s shifting global supply chain landscape, over 64% of European companies are rethinking how and where they source materials. With supply chain disruptions becoming the new normal, businesses are moving closer to final markets, valuing flexibility and reducing reliance on single suppliers. In this scenario, Morocco, strategically perched on the EU’s southern periphery, is emerging as a critical player.
Although Morocco accounts for only 1% of EU trade in goods, it already sends 56% of its exports—ranging from manufactured goods to agricultural products and fuels—into Europe. In 2022, the country posted $71.51 billion in imports and $41.15 billion in exports, highlighting a trade imbalance but also underscoring the scope for growth. As companies explore alternative sourcing options, Morocco’s proximity, competitive labor market, and diversified export portfolio are turning heads across Europe.
Addressing Trade Bottlenecks
To sustain and grow its position in global trade, Morocco needs improved connectivity with its northern neighbors. While the EU-Morocco Free Trade Area laid a foundation for trade expansion, recent events like the pandemic and geopolitical tensions have accelerated the nearshoring trend, placing Morocco squarely on Europe’s sourcing radar. However, trade growth is bumping up against logistical limits.
Trucking routes between Morocco and key European hubs, such as Spain and France, have seen double-digit growth. This has stretched ferry services to capacity, leading to bottlenecks, labor shortages, and increased emissions. Emilio de la Cruz, Managing Director of South West Europe at Maersk, points out that a “missing link” in the infrastructure threatens to choke the flow of goods just as demand is climbing.
The Morocco Bridge Solution
Enter the Morocco Bridge, Maersk’s multimodal logistics solution designed to smooth the flow of trade between Morocco and southern Europe. Combining rail and truck transport within Morocco, the service is anchored by an ocean shuttle linking Tangier and Algeciras three times a week. This system extends into Europe with multimodal connections, ensuring faster transit, reduced congestion, and a lower carbon footprint.
“Our customers working between the EU and Morocco demand solutions tailored to tight deadlines and short lead times,” says de la Cruz. “We needed to shift the conversation from days of lead time to hours.”
Maersk is also doubling down on infrastructure investments, including a new rail service between Barcelona and southern France. These enhancements aim to align with the continental flow of cargo while leveraging existing networks for maximum efficiency.
Morocco’s logistics backbone, particularly its second-largest MENA port, Tanger Med, handles 96% of the country’s international trade. While inland connectivity still lags, innovations like the Morocco Bridge are set to close critical gaps, positioning the nation as a vital link in the global supply chain.
