RABAT, Aug 28 – Morocco’s National Ports Agency (ANP) has been transformed into a state-owned joint-stock company called “Ports du Maroc SA” after Law No. 34.25 entered into force following its publication in the Official Bulletin.
The reform was formalised through Official Bulletin No. 7533 on August 10, after the law was promulgated by royal decree, Dahir No. 1.26.56, on July 28. The legislation modifies Law No. 15.02, which established the ANP and the Ports Operating Company.
The ANP had operated as a public establishment since 2005. The reform follows the government’s broader framework for restructuring public establishments and enterprises, with the aim of updating the port sector’s legal framework, strengthening governance and improving competitiveness.
Despite the change in legal structure, Ports du Maroc SA will remain fully owned by the Moroccan state. It will operate under Law No. 17.95 governing joint-stock companies.
Minister of Equipment and Water Nizar Baraka said the transformation does not create a new legal entity. The company will retain the ANP’s assets, rights and obligations, while existing contracts, partnerships, agreements and licences will remain valid.
Employees will also retain their administrative status and acquired benefits. Their service at the ANP will count as service at Ports du Maroc SA, with protections covering areas including pensions and health coverage.
The company will be governed by a board of directors and a director general. The board will oversee port fees, tariffs, ship mooring charges and cargo dues, while also having the power to establish internal committees and create subsidiaries.
Ports du Maroc SA will continue to manage, develop, maintain and promote Morocco’s ports on behalf of the state. Its responsibilities will include organising port activities, granting permits and authorisations, and concluding concession agreements.
The company will also support smart ports, digital transformation, environmental protection and sustainable development, including social responsibility projects in port areas.
Ports within the Tanger-Med special development zone and the Marchica lagoon site will remain outside its scope. The operational transition will begin once the new management bodies are installed.
