New Agadir-Dakar Maritime Line Set to Transform Trade Between Morocco and Sub-Saharan Africa
The Agadir-Dakar maritime line, launching in February 2025, will enhance trade between Morocco and sub-Saharan Africa. Anticipating the transport of 6,000 trucks annually, it will significantly reduce travel time for fresh goods. Supported by local authorities, this initiative strengthens regional trade relations and fosters economic cooperation among West African countries.
HASSAN BENYOUB 
The new maritime line connecting Agadir, Morocco, to Dakar, Senegal, launched in December 2024, is poised to be a significant turning point in enhancing trade relations between Morocco and sub-Saharan African countries. The service is expected to commence operations in February 2025, with experts predicting it will transform the commercial dynamics in the region.
Impact on Trade Relations
This maritime route is not solely aimed at servicing Dakar; it intends to connect various West African and Sahel countries, encompassing approximately 350 million inhabitants. Driss Boutti, president of the Agadir Souss-Massa region within the Moroccan Confederation of Enterprises (CGEM), emphasized that this new option would facilitate the transport of 6,000 trucks annually, addressing a portion of the estimated 60,000 trucks needed to meet demand.
Economic Benefits
The launch of this line comes at a time when Moroccan citrus exports are projected to rise significantly. According to a recent report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), these exports are expected to increase by 31% to 597,000 tons in 2025. This growth is attributed to improved weather conditions and advanced water management techniques, as well as strengthened trade relations between Morocco and West African nations.
The maritime connection aims to reduce transport times dramatically; currently, truckers take between 9 and 10 days to cover the 3,500 kilometers from Agadir to Dakar by land. With the new service, this journey will be shortened to just 56 hours, a crucial time-saving measure for transporting fresh and perishable goods.
Strategic Development
The Agadir-Dakar line is supported by local authorities in Souss-Massa, which have committed to subsidizing the service during its first year, contingent upon achieving a minimum occupancy rate of 65%. The initial frequency will be one trip per week, with potential increases based on demand.
This initiative not only strengthens Morocco's trade ties with Senegal but also opens avenues for connecting with other Sahelian countries such as Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso. It represents a strategic opportunity for enhancing regional trade and economic cooperation.
In summary, the Agadir-Dakar maritime line is set to optimize trade exchanges while creating new economic opportunities for both Morocco and its African partners.
