Special Economic Zones in the OIC Region:
Learning from Experience
106
The purpose for the creation of the TMZ was primarily one of regional economic development,
based on a vision to drive growth within the north of Morocco taking advantage of its unique
geographical position.
Beyond the realisation of the port infrastructure, the aimwas to build and ultimately manage an
integrated project of multiple dimensions, be they economic or territorial. Anchored to the
global trade flows, the success of Tanger Med was conditioned from its conception to the ability
to set up a project to the standards of its competitors, the major port, industrial and logistics
platforms worldwide. This royal vision has facilitated full support from Moroccan government
officials, investors and citizens.
Box 32 – Tanger Med Success Factors – Pillar 1 Royal Vision – TMSA Interview
Development of the SEZ
The different zones, and their supporting infrastructure, were developed quickly and in line
simultaneously with the overall vision to create an ‘integrated cluster’ supported by world class
infrastructure and services. All developments and infrastructure within the TMZs were started
at the same time and there were little or no gaps in provision of infrastructure and institutional
support, with all initiatives developed to a high quality and to meet international standards.
The simultaneous development of the individual industrial zones and Tanger Port, as well as
road and rail infrastructure linking the different hubs of the region has enabled an ecosystem of
zones to develop and thrive. All of these carefully planned developments support each other,
creating a virtuous circle of prosperity and economic development in the region. These activities
revolve around industrial and logistics functions, including automotive, aeronautic, textiles,
logistics, electronics, services and agribusiness sectors.
Discussions with TMSA indicated that the key success factors of five key pillars of success, the
first of which was the strong vision as set out by His Majesty King Mohammed VI. This strong
vision has resulted in a strong political will to implement the Tanger Med projects. This long-
term vision has also been critical to developing the fully integrated industrial cluster.