SNTL Initiates Warehouse Construction in Lqliaâ Logistics Zone
The National Company for Transport and Logistics (SNTL) has embarked on an ambitious project to construct warehouses spanning 45 hectares in the Lqliaâ Logistics Zone, located south of Agadir. This pilot project, with a construction budget of 98.74 million dirhams (MDH), aims to establish state-of-the-art logistics infrastructure that meets international standards. The primary goal is to streamline the flow of goods, enhancing the logistical competitiveness of the Souss-Massa region.
As the first dedicated logistics hub in the region, the Lqliaâ Logistics Zone is poised to significantly bolster the economic competitiveness of Souss-Massa. With the announcement of selected candidates for land lots eight months ago, the groundwork for warehouse construction is now set to commence. The project, developed in collaboration with the Moroccan Agency for Logistics Development (AMDL), encompasses a total area of 172 hectares, of which 45 hectares are allocated for this initial operational phase. Strategically positioned along National Road No. 1, the site is conveniently located near agricultural production and consumption centers, facilitating the efficient movement of logistics flows to and from the southern provinces.
Significant Economic Impact and Job Creation
The SNTL has initiated an architectural competition to design and oversee the construction of the warehouses in this zone. The maximum budget allocated for the execution of the works is set at 98.74 million dirhams. The architectural blueprint includes the development of a warehouse consisting of four interconnected storage units, with a minimum total area of 15,000 square meters. Additionally, the project will feature preparation areas, technical facilities, and administrative spaces spread across two levels. Landscaping and road infrastructure will also be meticulously planned to ensure the uniformity and sustainability of the development.
Currently, the Lqliaâ Logistics Zone represents the first achievement of the AMDL's priority program, aimed at enhancing logistical competitiveness by 2028. This initiative is part of the national strategy for developing logistics competitiveness, initiating the structuring of national logistics offerings. The zone has garnered a total investment of 350 million dirhams and will expand with the launch of a second phase covering a total area of 172 hectares. Comprising 29 lots, these areas have been marketed starting from 450 dirhams per square meter, with a land subsidy fixed at 600 dirhams per square meter.
The realization of this project is expected to generate 500 direct jobs and approximately 2,000 indirect jobs, fueled by 800 million dirhams in private investments and an estimated annual added value of two billion dirhams. This logistics zone is designed to enhance logistical flows and strengthen regional competitiveness. Furthermore, it aims to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and integrate informal logistics activities, thereby reducing logistical costs and travel times for local businesses while structuring informal practices within a regulatory framework that adheres to international safety and hygiene standards.
The zone will facilitate a variety of activities, including positive and negative refrigerated storage, grouping and de-grouping operations, container handling, packaging, co-packing, and light processing of raw materials. In addition to the development of a secured truck parking area capable of accommodating 200 heavy vehicles, the logistics zone will provide health services, a fuel station, a washing area, and a motel, all managed under a co-ownership arrangement defined by Law No. 25-90.
It is noteworthy that the development of this initial phase has been guided by a specific multi-party agreement detailing the commitments of the various signatories. The total investment required for this project (350 MDH) has been sourced through a 250 MDH contribution from the AMDL, alongside a 100 MDH financial input from the Souss-Massa Regional Council over a four-year period (2020-2024).
As reported by leseco.ma.
