For ports, the core reform resulted in ending the confusion between regulatory and operational functions, which previously were under a single state entity ODEP (Office D’Exploitation des Ports), and introducing competition. Following the adoption of the law 16-02 of November, 23rd 2005, ODEP’s regulatory activities were transferred to the Agence Nationale des Ports. Simultaneously, operational activities were left with the transformed ODEP, the SODEP (Société d’Exploitation des Ports). Law 16-02 also provides for opening of commercial activities to private sector operators. Lastly, the government engaged in very strategic investments in infrastructure, which greatly facilitate the connection to markets. Major ports, production and tourist centers are linked by a network of modern toll roads. The investment in a new deep sea port next to Tangier (“Tanger-Méditerranée”) to be operated by private concessionaires attracts interest from shipping
and port operators as transshipment facility (3 MTEU) on a major East-West route. It will also be a new first class gateway to Morocco.