A new direct shipping route, which will connect the UK and Morocco, is to be launched shortly.
The service will be based out of the Port of Poole and will operate to and from the Port of Tangiers in Morocco. The route has been established to help bypass post-Brexit traffic congestion and additional import procedures on goods arriving via Europe.
The link will run once a week providing an alternative route for exporters from Morocco and Africa currently using road networks to the UK via Europe. Avoiding two ferry crossings – one from Morocco to Spain and one from North Europe to the UK – the new route will reduce emissions significantly and avoid new, lengthy Brexit procedures. Cutting journey times on goods to fewer than three days, compared to more than 6 via road.
It will be used to encourage British importers to source fresh produce and other products directly from Morocco and Africa.
The direct line will also facilitate exports from the UK. Promoting southbound trade and increasing trade between two Kingdoms.
Captain Brian Murphy, Marine and Port Director at Poole Harbour Commissioners said: “We are very excited to be hosting United Seaways’ brand-new roll-on-roll-off ferry service. It will reduce the time taken for goods to arrive by half and will see significant environmental benefits by reducing road freight.
“This is an exciting opportunity for UK, Moroccan and African importers, and exporters, who are looking to develop existing and establish new business relationships. We will work closely with United Seaways to ensure this service is a huge success.
“With our high customer satisfaction levels, skilled workforce, and ample operational space, the Port of Poole is ideally set up to receive both accompanied and unaccompanied freight.
“We are the “can-do” port and look forward to supporting the future growth of the UK import and export market.”
Zeyd Fassi Fehri, MD United Seaways, said: “Our aim is to support businesses with post-Brexit, supply chain challenges and opportunities. This service will create a sustainable and environmental alternative. The speed and efficiency of the vessel ensures a longer shelf life for fresh products whilst reducing road congestion, tolls and additional import procedures that have arisen since Brexit.”
Nigel Jenney, CEO of the Fresh Produce Consortium, said: “Any solution that makes imports more effective, or eases trading with alternative countries, may well be a great opportunity for helping the UK source fresh produce from around the world.”
“The route offers a rapid service and avoids the additional tariff complications of trading via the EU. At this challenging time, it’s a welcome alternative to the increasing complexity of trading with Europe and I anticipate strong demand for this new service.”
Mostafa Benhima – Senior Consultant with the Moroccan Team: “The Kingdom of Morocco and the United Kingdom have a close friendship and a connection which is over 800 years old. We welcome the new line to Tangier Med Port and know that its success will increase trade between Morocco and the UK”.
Colin McMurray – Non-Exec Director: “It’s fantastic to be part of a visionary organisation which thinks out of the box. Whilst the project has been some years in the making, the timing of the service could not be better”.