Morocco launches global tender for 30-year operation of Africa’s largest shipyard in Casablanca

Morocco has opened an international tender for the development, equipping, and 30-year operation of a new $300 million shipyard in Casablanca—set to become the largest of its kind on the African continent, Bloomberg reports. Spanning 52 acres, the facility aims to position Morocco as a strategic player in regional and global maritime industries.

“We aim to capture demand from the saturated shipyards in southern Europe and cater to African ships heading to Europe,” said Abdellatif Lhouaoui, communications director at Morocco’s state-run National Ports Agency.

Historically, Moroccan shipyards have primarily serviced fishing vessels. However, the new facility is designed to accommodate commercial, military, and fishing ships alike. It features a 244-meter-long, 40-meter-wide dry dock and a vertical ship lift capable of handling vessels up to 9,000 tons.

Lhouaoui noted that the new shipyard will enable Morocco to service its military vessels domestically, reducing reliance on foreign facilities and easing pressure on the country’s foreign currency reserves. This move aligns with Morocco’s broader financial strategy as it prepares to gradually shift away from its currency peg to a basket of euros and U.S. dollars by 2026.

French defense firm Naval Group and South Korea’s Hyundai Heavy Industries—operator of the world’s largest shipyard in Ulsan—are considered leading contenders for the contract, according to Morocco World News, citing Spanish outlet El Confidencial.

Tender documents, published in French, stipulate that bidders must have at least ten years of experience operating similar facilities. Companies may submit bids individually or as part of a consortium led by a qualified operator.