Contributed by ShibataFenderTeam (vendor project release; SFT in third-person promotional voice).
Nador West Med is taking shape on Morocco’s Mediterranean coast, directly along the main east–west shipping routes for container and petroleum product traffic. It is one of the region’s most ambitious new port developments, with significant capacities for container traffic as well as bulk cargo. As of March 2026, construction is progressing toward a planned start of operations in 2027.
The works are being executed by SGTM, a Moroccan contractor with long-standing experience in major infrastructure projects across transport, energy, water management and industry, who appointed ShibataFenderTeam to design and supply the fender systems for the development.
Across four terminals serving different vessel types and operational profiles, SFT equipped approximately 1,520 meters of quay with fender systems and bollards.
- The Container Terminal was equipped with 120 Cone Fender Systems (SPC 1600, G2.7) with closed steel panels (3400 × 5650 mm) and 208 Bollards with 200-t capacity.
- For the RoRo Quay, SFT supplied 5 Cone Fender Systems (SPC 1600, G2.7) with closed box panels (5800 × 3400 mm) and 3 bollards with 200-t capacity.
- The Bulk Terminal included 19 Cone Fender Systems (SPC 1600, G1.8) with closed box panels (3200 × 4650 mm) and 19 bollards with 200-t capacity.
- The Oil Quays were equipped with 30 Cone Fender Systems (SPC 1800, G2.3) with closed box panels (4800 × 4500 mm).
Finally, the Service Dock received 96 DD fenders (500 × 500 × 2000 mm) and 39 bollards with 30-t capacity.
Each terminal required solutions adapted to its specific operational and structural conditions. Beyond the supply of equipment, the scale and evolving nature of the project required continuous engineering coordination. Throughout the execution phase, SFT provided engineering input related to the fender systems and quay structures, supporting the contractor as berth designs and technical requirements evolved. This collaboration extended into the installation phase, where SFT assisted in ensuring the proper integration of the systems within the port’s berth structures.
Quality requirements for the project were particularly high given the strategic importance of Nador West Med for Morocco’s maritime infrastructure. SFT carried out the required quality controls accordingly while continuing to support the project during installation.
Described by the supplier as one of the largest port infrastructure developments underway in Africa, Nador West Med illustrates the complexity of large multi-terminal ports where reliable equipment and project-specific engineering expertise are equally essential. In recognition of SFT’s experience in such developments, ShibataFenderTeam has also been selected to supply the fender systems for another new port project currently underway in Morocco.