Trade relations between Morocco and the United Kingdom have received a new boost with the launch of a direct maritime shipping line dedicated to transporting fresh agricultural products. The service, operated by DP World, began taking shape after one of the company’s cargo vessels docked at the Port of Agadir on November 17, ahead of its first official voyage carrying Moroccan produce to the UK in the coming days.
According to specialized industry sources, Dirk Hoffmann, the company’s Commercial Director, expressed satisfaction with the milestone, saying he was “delighted to welcome the first vessel on our new service connecting Morocco with the UK and Europe.” He added that the ship would begin its “first northbound sailing next week,” inviting customers to book their cargo on the inaugural voyage.
A report published by the specialized platform HortiDaily indicates that the new maritime route is expected to reduce the transit time for Moroccan fresh products to the United Kingdom by approximately two days. Shifting transport from road to sea could also cut carbon emissions by around 70%, according to company data.
Morocco exports more than 6.5 million tonnes of fruits and vegetables annually to Western Europe, with demand for Moroccan produce continuing to rise. This makes the new service an ideal solution for direct connectivity between Agadir, Casablanca, London, and Antwerp, the report said.
The shift from road transport to maritime shipping also reduces the logistical risks associated with lengthy overland journeys, including road congestion, border delays, and multiple handling operations that can affect product quality. The service additionally avoids transit through Tangier, Algeciras, Calais, and Dover—simplifying a supply chain that typically stretches more than 3,000 kilometers.
The vessel is scheduled to depart on its first northbound trip next week, carrying Moroccan products to the UK and Belgium. It is expected to return to Agadir on November 24 and depart again the following night, establishing the foundation for a regular sailing pattern.
The launch of this route comes at a time when British supply chains are reassessing transport reliability and environmental sustainability requirements, while Moroccan producers continue expanding exports to Europe. The development signals strengthening trade ties between Morocco and the UK and deeper logistical integration between the two sides.
This initiative also forms part of Morocco’s broader strategy to reinforce its position as a key supplier of fresh products to the European market, leveraging logistics innovation to enhance transport quality and ensure faster access to international markets.
