Overview of the Congestion Crisis
The Port of Casablanca is currently facing a significant and persistent congestion crisis that is adversely affecting the entire logistics chain. This situation, which has escalated over time, is resulting in increased operational costs for maritime operators and excessively long wait times for ships. Recent reports indicate that the congestion has become so severe that it is now visibly extending beyond the port's boundaries, reaching as far as the Morocco Mall. This alarming reality is illustrated by various images captured by Medias24 that depict the extent of the congestion.
As of May 2026, over 60 vessels are anchored off the port, a marked increase from around 50 at the end of March 2026, with nearly half of these vessels being grain carriers. Average wait times have soared to approximately ten days and can extend up to a month for certain commodities, particularly grains. The ongoing deterioration of this situation is severely hindering both importers and exporters, impacting their delivery timelines and contractual obligations while incurring additional costs.
Understanding the Root Causes of Structural Congestion
Industry professionals assert that the congestion at the Port of Casablanca is no longer a temporary issue but rather a structural problem rooted in multiple interrelated factors. According to Mohamed El Jaouadi, president of the Moroccan Shipowners Association (ARMA), the primary cause lies in the continuous increase in both import and export flows driven by the growth of the national economy. An indirect effect stemming from the Tanger Med port, which is operating at full capacity due to heightened geopolitical tensions, has also led to the redirection of certain shipping flows—including cabotage—towards Casablanca.
Another factor exacerbating the congestion is the deterioration of weather conditions in Morocco; the Port of Casablanca has experienced nearly two months of cumulative closures due to severe weather since the beginning of 2026. These closures have created a backlog that is difficult to overcome for a port already operating at maximum capacity. Furthermore, El Jaouadi highlights a lack of foresight regarding investment; the increases in traffic have not been met with timely enhancements in handling equipment or logistics infrastructure, resulting in a vicious cycle where rising traffic exacerbates congestion without a quick resolution in sight.
The current state of affairs indicates that the port's existing capacities are insufficient to handle the volume of traffic it is experiencing. Late investments in infrastructure will take time to implement, further intensifying the pressure on all stakeholders involved.
As reported by medias24.com.
