Morocco pauses one of its most strategic energy projects. The Ministry of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development (MTEDD) has announced a temporary suspension of the selection process related to the development of gas infrastructure around Nador West Med, including the future liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal and the network of pipelines that will connect the port to the Maghreb-Europe Gas Pipeline (GME), and then to the industrial zones of Kénitra and Mohammedia.
In a statement, the ministry explained that this decision was prompted by the emergence of “new parameters and assumptions” requiring a re-evaluation of the project. Competition notices had been published on December 5, 2025, but the administration now indicates that it is suspending the receipt of bids and the opening of already submitted offers.
A review concerning the terminal, route, and connection capacities
The project in question aims to equip the Kingdom with a complete system: an LNG terminal at Nador West Med, its connection to the national network via the GME, and the extension of gas to the main industrial basins in the north and center.
According to the MTEDD, the suspension is intended to allow for a thorough examination of the technical, economic, and operational components of the project, given its role in securing the national energy supply. The ministry assures that it will communicate future developments of the file while adhering to the rules governing competition.
An announcement following a royal meeting in Casablanca
This freeze comes just days after a working meeting chaired in Casablanca by King Mohammed VI, focused on the port and industrial complex of Nador West Med, which is expected to become operational in the fourth quarter.
The project is presented as an integrated hub combining a state-of-the-art port with an industrial, logistics, and energy platform. At this stage, it has reportedly mobilized 51 billion dirhams in public and private investments, with the basic port infrastructure already completed (dikes, docks, and energy dedicated posts). Concessions for the two container terminals have been signed, and progressive commissioning is scheduled to begin this year.
LNG as a cornerstone of energy sovereignty
In the framework of Nador West Med, the energy component holds a central place. The port will host the first LNG terminal in the Kingdom, with an announced capacity of 5 billion m³ per year, along with a hydrocarbons terminal. This setup is designed to enhance energy sovereignty and support the industrial scaling-up.
From its start, the port aims for a capacity of 5 million containers per year and 35 million tons of liquid and solid bulk, with significant potential for the future.
An industrial project that extends beyond the port
Beyond maritime infrastructure, the complex is expected to rely on industrial and logistics activity zones. A first phase of 700 hectares has been announced, with several international operator establishments already confirmed. The confirmed private investments are expected to reach 20 billion dirhams, indicating the site’s attractiveness.
During the royal meeting, guidelines were also set to accelerate training, facilitate youth integration, and ensure an equitable distribution of economic benefits across all the concerned provinces.
What the suspension means: a recalibration, not abandonment
The MTEDD’s decision does not close the file but reflects a change in pace: the state clearly wants to recalibrate the gas project before engaging in structural contracts. This is an important signal in a context where gas is increasingly seen as a transitional energy source, essential for stabilizing the national mix while accompanying the rise of renewables.