Morocco’s Industrial Acceleration Zones (IAZ) are key pillars of the country’s economic development, playing a crucial role in the implementation of various sectoral strategies. These strategies, such as the Industrial Acceleration Plan, the Green Morocco Plan, Halieutis and the development of the automotive and aeronautics industries, are all supported by the transversal supply chain ecosystem, of which logistics is a central element.

Logistics, as a supporting pillar, is vital to the successful implementation of these strategies, as well as to the development of small and medium-sized enterprises, which form the backbone of the Moroccan economy.

With a view to attracting foreign investment and stimulating economic activity, Morocco has taken the strategic decision to develop Industrial Acceleration Zones (IAZ) on a regional scale. These export processing zones, formerly known as industrial free zones, have been renamed and reconfigured as IAZs in line with the 2020 Finance Law. This transition goes beyond a simple change of terminology; it reflects Morocco’s strategic vision to improve its position on a continental and regional scale.

Attractions and differentiating assets

The tax advantages offered by the IAZs play a crucial role in their attractiveness. The corporate income tax rate is set at 15%, which is particularly attractive for entrepreneurs looking to set up a business in Morocco. This rate was adjusted after a five-year exemption period, initially set at 8.75%.

What’s more, companies based in the IAZs benefit from a tolerance regarding sales on the local market. Since 2018, they have been authorized to sell up to 15% of their production on the local market, in addition to their exports. This expands business opportunities and strengthens local integration.

IAZs also offer a wide range of support services to companies wishing to set up in these privileged zones. In addition to real estate services, such as turnkey buildings and office space for rent, they offer a variety of services ranging from operations and logistics to general and commercial services, making it easier for companies to set up and operate.

However, to make an industrial zone a truly special platform, it is crucial that ZAIs collaborate with various governmental and local bodies, such as the Regional Investment Centers (CRI), the National Social Security Fund (CNSS), Customs, and local authorities. These collaborations enable us to provide efficient administrative services to investors, simplifying bureaucratic procedures.

Flagship IAZs. A few illustrations.

Morocco has a wide range of IAZs, each with its own specific features and advantages.

For example, Midparc, located in Casablanca, specializes in the aeronautics and space industries, attracting defense and security giants as well as companies of the future in fields such as medicine and embedded electronics. Its strategic location close to Mohamed V International Airport gives it direct access to Africa and Europe.

The Atlantic Free Zone is an attractive hub between Tangier and Rabat, attracting multinationals in the automotive and electronics sectors. It is strategically positioned between Rabat and Casablanca, two major metropolises linked to the rest of the country and beyond by complex networks.

Technopolis, nicknamed the Silicon Valley on the outskirts of Rabat, is ideal for companies specializing in exports, benefiting from a strategic location close to motorways and the airports of Rabat-Salé and Casablanca. It offers an abundant pool of competitive human resources thanks to the best training schools located in Rabat.

Oujda also boasts a cleantech industrial park. Located close to the port of Nador Beni Nsar, it benefits from a unique geographical position at the crossroads of Africa, Europe and the Maghreb, offering advantages in terms of a skilled local workforce and export opportunities.

Tanger Free Zone, inaugurated in 1999, is an industrial hub close to Europe. Covering an area of 400 hectares, it stands out for its strategic location and diversification into sectors such as automotiove, aeronautics, textiles, agri-food, logistics and tertiary services. Close to Tangiers international airport, it attracts a highly qualified workforce.

In conclusion…

Morocco currently boasts more than a dozen Industrial Acceleration Zones, the majority of which are operational. However, many more are in the development phase, attesting to Morocco’s continuing appeal to investors in search of fertile platforms.

This initiative demonstrates that demand for these zones has never been stronger, underlining Morocco’s attractiveness and growth potential as an industrial hub.

To find out more about setting up in an Industrial Acceleration Zone in Tangier, Morocco, please contact the AUTICS group via its portal: www.autics-group.com.

Autics group, is positioned as an expert in supporting companies operating in free zones, offering services in logistics, consulting, freight and customs procedures.

The AUTICS group has the expertise to guide you through the process of integrating and optimizing your presence in these zones of industrial development.

Morocco has invested heavily in the development of the transport and logistics sector to support its booming economy. High-quality infrastructure is essential for facilitating trade and promoting international business, as well as for connecting remote regions to the national economy. The kingdom has mobilized substantial budgets and developed specific strategies to implement large-scale programs.

Road freight and overland goods transport

 The country boasts an extensive road network, including freeways, as well as an extensive rail network, including high-speed lines. Road freight is the backbone of logistics in Morocco, enabling the efficient transfer of goods across the country and to international destinations. Recently, Morocco has invested in modern road infrastructure to facilitate the transport and storage of goods. These investments have improved customs transit times and enhanced the country’s competitiveness as a leading regional logistics hub.

Sea freight has a bright future ahead of it

 Moroccan ports are connected to numerous international destinations, and are set to be further expanded with the Dakhla Atlantique project and the Nador West Med project, scheduled for completion by the end of 2024. Maritime transport, represented by the ports of Tangier Med, Agadir and Casablanca, continues to play an essential role in Morocco’s international trade. The port of Tangier Med, in particular, has become one of the largest hubs in the Mediterranean region. The port’s expansion has increased its capacity and attracted new international logistics operators. These developments are helping to strengthen Morocco’s position as a major logistics hub in Africa.

Air freight, a high-potential segment

 As far as the air transport sector is concerned, Casablanca’s Mohammed V airport remains the country’s leading airport in terms of freight transport. However, other airports, such as Tangiers and Marrakech, are seeing their role in freight transport expand rapidly. Investments are underway to modernize airport infrastructures and improve associated logistics services. These advances support the continued growth of air freight transport in Morocco.

What about information technology and digitalization ?

 The transport and logistics sector is facing a number of new challenges, including digitalization and the energy transition. Investing in intelligent technologies can bring considerable benefits in terms of efficiency, profitability and sustainability. New technologies have the potential to reduce transport costs, such as the use of drones for deliveries. The global smart logistics market is expected to reach $46.2 billion by 2025, with an annual CAGR of 11% over the coming years. The technologies in question can deliver substantial cost optimization. The use of drones for deliveries can compress transport costs by up to 80% compared with truck delivery….but not only ! Fleet management is also a fast-growing sector. Energy transition is another important issue, with the need to switch from fossil fuels to other, more sustainable energy sources.

More efficient import and export flows

 Customs transit is a key issue in the logistics sector. Morocco has recently implemented reforms aimed at simplifying customs procedures and speeding up the transit of goods. These measures have reduced customs clearance times, boosting international trade and the attractiveness of free trade zones and logistics hubs.

We come out of it more hardened

 It has to be said that the COVID health crisis has also had an effect on the transport sector, directly and indirectly impacting operations and supply chains. …In short, the latest developments in Morocco’s logistics and international freight transport sectors bear witness to the country’s dynamism and commitment to the development of its logistics infrastructure. To name but three, the TFZ and TAC free zones, as well as the Tanger Med hubs, are playing a key role in this transformation, attracting increasing investment and reinforcing Morocco’s position as a strategic hub for global trade.

For all your international logistics and freight forwarding needs, consult the specialist: www.autics-group.com for a business review perfectly tailored to your growth needs, today and tomorrow.

In the dynamic landscape of international logistics and freight transport, Morocco is increasingly positioning itself as a key player.

Freight companies are playing an increasingly prominent role. They contribute to economic growth by offering efficient transport solutions and supporting companies in their import and export activities. In this blog post, we will highlight the role of FTL (Full Truck Load), LTL (Less Than Truck Load), IRF (International Road Freight) and DRF (Domestic Road Freight) freight companies, and their impact on profitability, inventory management and delivery times. We will also highlight the Autics Group, based in TFZ (Tangier Free Zone), as a major player in this value chain.

I.The role of Morocco-based transport companies

Morocco-based transport companies FTL, LTL, IRF and DRF play a crucial role in promoting the logistics sector. They offer reliable transport services tailored to the needs of different market players, whether for land, air or sea freight, or customs transit. These companies enable goods to be transported efficiently to and from various countries, guaranteeing short response times and on-time deliveries.

II.Opportunities offered by Tanger Med, TFZ and TAC

Tanger Med, TFZ (Tanger Free Zone) and TAC (Tanger Automotive City) are major free zones in Morocco. They offer a favorable environment for the development of transport companies and strengthen their role in the logistics sector. These free zones boast modern infrastructure, sea, land and air connections, and a skilled workforce. By capitalizing on these advantages, transport companies based in these zones can offer competitive services while optimizing inventory management and reducing response and delivery times.

III. The importance of Autics Group in this value chain

Speaking of key players in the Moroccan logistics sector, TFZ-based Autics Group stands out from the crowd. With solid expertise in logistics, warehousing, land, air and sea freight and customs transit, Autics Group offers a comprehensive range of solutions tailored to the needs of businesses. Thanks to its strategic position in the Tangier free zone, Autics Group is able to optimize profitability and reduce response and delivery times for its customers. Its commitment to superior service enables it to play a crucial role in the growth of Morocco’s logistics sector.

Ultimately, the FTL, LTL, IRF and DRF transport companies based in Morocco, particularly in Tanger Med, TFZ, TAC and the surrounding free zones, actively contribute to the promotion of the sector as a whole. They facilitate the rapid and efficient movement of goods, while offering comprehensive services to support companies in their upwardly mobile processes. In this context, Autics Group stands out as a key player, providing complete logistics solutions across the entire value chain, helping companies to achieve their logistics objectives with professionalism and excellence.

To find out more about the services offered by Autics Group, we invite you to visit their official website: www.autics-group.com

In the heart of North Africa, more specifically in Tangier, Morocco has rapidly become a major player in the multimodal transport and logistics sector, thanks to sustained efforts to improve its competitiveness and attract foreign investment.
In this blog post, we’ll focus on the competitiveness of Morocco’s logistics offering, with particular emphasis on the industrial acceleration zones, notably the Tangier Free Zone (TFZ) and the port of Tangier Med, and TAC (Tangier atutomotive city).
We will also discuss the main challenges facing overland freight transport, maritime transport and air transport.

Industrial Acceleration Zones :

The Tangier Free Zone (TFZ), located in northern Morocco, is one of the most outstanding examples of the competitiveness of the country’s logistics offering. This free zone boasts modern infrastructure, simplified procedures and attractive tax benefits, making it extremely attractive to international companies. The TFZ’s strategic location, close to the Strait of Gibraltar and major European markets, makes it a first-rate logistics hub for international trade.
The port of Tangier Med, also located in northern Morocco, is a key driver of the country’s logistics competitiveness. With its modern terminals and high-performance equipment, it has become the country’s most important port and Africa’s largest Mediterranean port. In addition to its container handling capacity, Tanger Med is also equipped to handle giant container ships, reinforcing its position as the region’s maritime transport hub.
The industrial acceleration zone known as TAC Morocco (Tangier Automotive City) is an industrial zone located in Tangier, Morocco. It was created with the aim of developing the automotive sector in the region. TAC Morocco offers modern infrastructure and incentives to investors in the automotive industry, making it an attractive destination for companies in the sector. Its aim is to become a major automotive hub in North Africa, attracting investment and creating jobs for the local population.

The challenges of overland freight transport :

Considerable efforts have been made to modernize and develop Morocco’s overland transport network, ensuring competitive delivery times. In addition, freeway expansion projects, such as the Tangier-Marrakech freeway, are underway to improve connectivity and enhance the efficiency of overland transport.

Sea freight transport :

Maritime transport plays a key role in Morocco’s logistics offering, given its advantageous geographical position and proximity to major European markets. However, global competition and the need to reduce transit times are major challenges. The port of Tanger Med, with its modern facilities and operational efficiency, is looking to attract more global shipping lines, which will improve connectivity and boost the competitiveness of maritime transport in Morocco.

Transporting goods by air :

A fast, efficient solution for goods requiring fast, reliable delivery, air transport is an unavoidable solution. Morocco has several well-connected international airports, including Casablanca’s Mohammed V airport. These airports offer high-quality logistics services, enabling companies to ship their products in the shortest possible time. Thanks to an extensive air network and strict safety measures, air freight contributes to Morocco’s competitiveness in the global marketplace.
Morocco has made great strides in strengthening its logistics competitiveness, particularly in industrial acceleration zones such as the Tangier Free Zone and the port of Tangier Med. These initiatives have attracted foreign investment, created jobs and improved the country’s connectivity with key global markets. The competitiveness of Morocco’s logistics offering rests on several solid pillars. Industrial Acceleration Zones, such as the TFZ and Tangier Med, offer competitive advantages to companies. Land, sea and air freight transport, while facing challenges, is continually supported by modern infrastructure and ongoing investment. Morocco is thus positioning itself as a benchmark logistics hub, promoting the country’s economic development and international trade.
To help you develop your value chain in relation to your logistics strategy and your goods transportation policy, get in touch with one of our specialists, in particular AUTICS GROUP, to benefit from insightful support, a comprehensive audit and a perfectly customized offer. www.autics-group.com

Logistics and goods transport play a key role in the economic development of a country.
In Morocco, the Tangier industrial free zone and the port of Tangier Med stand out as pillars of international trade and logistics activity.

Customs transit and logistics solutions

We look at the innovative solutions that have been put in place to improve customs procedures, storage, warehousing and transportation of goods.
Customs transit and customs procedures have long been major challenges in international trade.
With the advent of new technologies and the adoption of intelligent logistics solutions, the Tangier industrial free zone and the port of Tangier Med have introduced measures to facilitate these processes.
Digital tools have been developed to simplify customs formalities, reduce delays and speed up the flow of goods. With regard to the storage and warehousing of goods, warehouse management software solutions have been integrated into the Tangier industrial free zone. These modern systems enable efficient inventory management, real-time traceability and optimization of storage space.
This enables companies to manage their inventories efficiently, guaranteeing smoother, more profitable logistics.

Three solutions for goods transportation

Sea freight and air freight play a major role in world trade. In Morocco, the port of Tanger Med is one of the largest in the Mediterranean. With its container handling and cargo handling capacity, it has become an essential hub in the region. Sea freight from Asia to Morocco also finds an advantageous solution thanks to the strategic geographical location of the port of Tanger Med.
Similarly, air freight plays a vital role in trade between Europe and Morocco. Fast, reliable air links enable goods to be transported efficiently, offering Moroccan companies increased export opportunities to Europe.
In terms of overland freight transport (FTL/LTL-DRF/IRF/TIR), the city of Tangier as a point of departure or destination is developing rapidly.
Modern road infrastructure efficiently connects Tangier industrial free zone and the port of Tangier Med to all destinations, promoting national and international freight transport.
For all your logistics, transport (sea, air, land) and customs transit needs, contact the specialist: www.autics-group.com
We always have original solutions for you!
In conclusion, the Tangier industrial free zone and the port of Tangier Med in Morocco play a vital role in the evolution of freight transport, sea freight, air freight and logistics. Technological advances, such as warehouse management software solutions and initiatives to simplify customs procedures, have improved the efficiency and competitiveness of these sectors. Land freight, sea freight from Asia and air freight to Europe are also areas of significant growth.
With these developments, the Tangier industrial free zone and the Tangier Med port will continue to play an essential role in Morocco’s international trade and logistics.

The industrial acceleration zones located in northern Morocco, such as the TFZ (Tangier Free Zone), Tanger Med and TAC (Tanger Automotive City), play a crucial role in the country’s economic growth and in attracting business from the four corners of the globe. These logistics hubs offer modern infrastructures and high-quality services, making them highly sought-after destinations for international companies.
The TFZ, located near the port of Tangier Med, is considered one of the most advanced free zones in Africa. It offers competitive advantages to companies operating in various sectors such as the automotive, aeronautics, electronics and pharmaceutical industries.
Thanks to massive investment in infrastructure and simplified customs procedures, the TFZ is attracting an increasing number of foreign companies, thereby contributing to the region’s economic development. Tanger Med, meanwhile, is one of the largest ports in the Mediterranean region and plays an indispensable role in international trade.
Thanks to its proximity to Europe and its modern infrastructure, the port of Tanger Med offers rapid access to European markets. What’s more, it boasts an integrated logistics zone with modern warehousing and transport facilities, offering companies complete logistics solutions. As for TAC, this zone is entirely dedicated to the automotive industry, attracting the world’s leading manufacturers.

Freight transport, logistics & customs transitFreight transport, logistics & customs transit

It offers specific infrastructures tailored to the needs of this sector, enabling companies to benefit from an optimized supply chain and efficient logistics. Transport, customs transit, logistics and warehousing are also booming in these free trade zones. The deployment of artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) is optimizing logistics processes, improving the traceability of goods, and reducing costs and lead times. Companies can now efficiently manage their inventories thanks to high-performance warehouse management systems (WMS) and transport systems (TMS). In addition, customs declaration software applications facilitate administrative procedures and help speed up the passage of goods across borders.

The specialist…

Against this backdrop, Autics Group stands out as a highly dynamic player in logistics, warehousing and freight forwarding in the northern region of Morocco, but also in the rest of the country and internationally.
Autics Group, which is based both in the TFZ and in Tangier Med, offers tailor-made support and consulting services for companies seeking to optimize their supply chain and increase business volume.
Thanks to its expertise and network of strategic partners, Autics Group offers comprehensive logistics solutions tailored to the specific needs of each company. For customized support in logistics, warehousing, international freight forwarding and customs transit.
For further information, please visit the Autics Group website at : www.autics-group.com

Exceptional Development in Logistics, Warehousing, and Goods Transportation in Morocco

Over the past ten years, Morocco has experienced exceptional development in the fields of logistics, warehousing and goods transportation. Thanks to the establishment of free zones and industrial acceleration zones, the country has become a major player in the region, attracting many international companies. This article explores this meteoric rise in detail, focusing not only on logistics, but also on land, air and sea freight.

Evolution of Logistics and Warehousing in Morocco

Over the past decade, Morocco has invested heavily in developing its logistics infrastructure. New, modern logistics platforms have been built, enabling companies to benefit from advanced services and tailor-made solutions. Warehouses have been equipped with state-of-the-art technology, enabling efficient inventory management and cost reduction.

Morocco’s Extensive and Modernized Road Network – Land Freight

Morocco has built up an extensive and modernized road network, making it easy to transport goods across the country. Freeways are well maintained, offering fast, reliable links between the main economic centers and ports. In addition, the use of specialized freight trucks and the introduction of real-time tracking services have greatly improved the quality of overland freight transport.

Morocco’s Air Freight Infrastructure

Morocco boasts several modern international airports, making it a strategic air freight hub in the region. World-renowned airlines regularly operate cargo flights to and from Morocco, offering global connectivity. Increased air freight handling capacity has made it possible to accommodate a greater volume of goods and reduce delivery times.

Morocco’s Sea Freight Capabilities

With its advantageous geographical position along both sea coasts, Morocco has become a key crossroads for sea freight. Moroccan ports have undergone significant modernization, with massive investment in port infrastructure expansion. Handling capacities have been expanded, enabling a considerable increase in the volume of goods handled.

Influence of Free Trade Zones and Industrial Acceleration Zones in Morocco

Morocco has created free trade zones and industrial acceleration zones to encourage foreign investment and stimulate economic growth. These zones offer an attractive environment for businesses, with benefits such as tax incentives, modern infrastructure, and a skilled workforce.

Role of Companies in Boosting Morocco’s Logistics and Warehousing Development

The establishment of numerous companies in these zones has played a major role in accelerating the development of logistics and warehousing in Morocco. Over the past ten years, Morocco has seen impressive progress in the fields of logistics, warehousing, and goods transportation. Thanks to investments in infrastructure, improved land, air, and sea transport services, and the establishment of free trade zones and industrial acceleration zones, the country has become a key player in the region. Morocco continues to strengthen its position as a logistics hub, attracting more and more international companies wishing to take advantage of its dynamic development.