Severe congestion at the Port of Casablanca is disrupting Morocco’s import operations, with more than 60 cargo ships currently waiting offshore to dock amid mounting logistical pressures, according to Hespress AR industry sources.
The unusual sight of vessels lined up off the Atlantic coast has become visible from several nearby districts of Morocco’s economic capital, including the area surrounding the Morocco Mall waterfront.
The industry sources told local media that grain carriers account for the largest share of the backlog, with around 30 vessels dedicated to grain shipments, including about 20 carrying cereals and 13 transporting animal feed.
Average waiting times currently range from eight to 10 days, although some large cargo vessels have reportedly remained offshore for up to a month awaiting access to the port.
According to the sources, the congestion crisis stems from a combination of factors, including prolonged adverse weather conditions affecting Morocco’s coastline since November.
The weather disruptions significantly impacted operations at Tangier Med Port, Morocco’s largest port and a major supplier hub for Casablanca through feeder vessels. Irregular maritime traffic from Tangier Med, combined with intermittent closures at the Port of Casablanca for more than two months since the start of 2026, contributed to growing shipping backlogs.
Sources also cited increasing pressure on port infrastructure as global geopolitical tensions pushed additional maritime traffic toward Casablanca while Tangier Med Port continued operating at full capacity.
The situation worsened after the Liberian commercial vessel “Eunicos” reportedly lost several containers near the entrance to the port, temporarily paralyzing operations for up to five days.
Ongoing dredging work conducted by Marsa Maroc at one of the port’s docks has also reduced available operating capacity throughout the winter season, according to industry representatives.
The delays have generated substantial demurrage costs, known locally as “surestaries,” which can range from $50,000 to $100,000 per day for bulk cargo vessels. In the grain sector, daily penalties are estimated at between $20,000 and $25,000.
Importers are expected to absorb much of the added cost, though some may eventually pass the increases on to consumers. Industry sources also warned that shortages of raw materials have already forced some industrial units to partially suspend operations.
Officials at Morocco’s National Ports Agency were not immediately available for comment regarding measures being taken to ease the congestion.
Shipping industry representatives expressed concern that prolonged delays could prompt maritime operators to revise their shipping schedules, potentially reducing the number of routes serving Casablanca and increasing freight costs further.
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