EBRD-backed upgrade opens Casablanca port to Panamax ships

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) reaffirmed its support for the modernization of Morocco's port infrastructure during a visit by its Vice President for Policy and Partnerships, Mark Bowman, to Marsa Maroc's multipurpose terminal at the Port of Casablanca on Wednesday.

According to a press release, Bowman met with Marsa Maroc CEO Tarik El Aroussi to review progress on the terminal's quay deepening project, financed through a MAD 690 million EBRD loan, and discuss the benefits already achieved following the commissioning of the project's first phase.

Since early April 2026, the upgraded terminal has been able to receive Panamax vessels with a capacity of up to 60,000 tonnes, a first for the Port of Casablanca.

Bowman's visit to Morocco runs from June 24 to 26 and also includes meetings with Water and Equipment Minister Nizar Baraka, Industry and Trade Minister Ryad Mezzour, local banks and other public- and private-sector partners. Discussions are expected to focus on expanding investment in the kingdom, strengthening private sector-led growth, accelerating the green transition and supporting reforms aimed at attracting more private capital.