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Rabat – The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has taken a major step to boost Morocco’s northern economy by providing €2.1 million in support for Nador West Med (NWM) – the Bétoya Industrial and Logistic Zone (BILZ).
The funding will help the port and industrial complex become a sustainable, competitive, and investor-friendly hub.
Haytham Eissa, EBRD Director in Morocco, signed the agreement in Rabat with Mohamed Jamal Benjelloun, CEO of Nador West Med.
The grant will finance a technical support program aimed at preparing the industrial and port facilities for full operations.
The program will also help the management team improve planning, infrastructure, and operational standards to meet international benchmarks.
This latest initiative builds on a €120 million investment the EBRD committed to Nador West Med in 2025.
The focus includes introducing modern digital systems for administration, establishing flexible and climate-resilient infrastructure, and strengthening human resources.
A central part of the plan is a new digital one-stop service center in Bétoya. The platform will guide investors step by step through the process of launching their activities.
The program also aims to integrate sustainable energy and resilient infrastructure from the outset to ensure that the region can adapt to future environmental challenges.
Training and capacity building will focus on technical, managerial, and interdisciplinary skills, preparing the workforce to operate the port and industrial zones efficiently while fostering long-term growth and competitiveness.
“This program reflects our dedication to supporting regional development in Morocco,” said Eissa.
“By combining digital innovation, sustainable planning, and skills development, we aim to turn Nador West Med into a leading industrial and logistics center. This project will attract foreign investment, create jobs, and ensure local communities benefit from the growth it generates.”
Morocco has been an operational member of the EBRD since 2012. To date, the bank has invested nearly €6 billion in 125 projects across the country, demonstrating a sustained commitment to Morocco’s economic development.
EBRD’s decision comesin the heels of recent developments as King Mohammed VI chaired a working session in January at the Royal Palace in Casablanca focused on Nador West Med port and industrial complex.
The ambitious project has mobilized MAD 51 billion ($5.64 billion) in combined public and private investments. During the meeting, the King assessed the progress of the works and issued directives to ensure the port becomes operational later this year.
