Israel-Morocco Maritime Transport Agreement Gets Green Light

The Israeli government has approved the maritime transport agreement between the Government of Israel and the Kingdom of Morocco - this is decision number 2990 of the government dated 02.05.2025. The agreement, signed in Rabat on May 29, 2023, is designed to regulate and promote maritime transport between the two countries on the basis of principles of free and fair competition, freedom of navigation, and cooperation.

The agreement regulates a variety of issues in the field of maritime transport, including safety, port entry, taxation, dispute resolution, fees, and tariffs. In addition, the agreement allows mutual recognition of the countries' shipping documents and guarantees equal treatment for the shipping vessels and companies of both countries.

Under the agreement, it is stipulated that revenues that will accrue to shipping companies from services provided in the territory of the other country can be used to make payments in that country or for transfer abroad, in accordance with the foreign currency laws and regulations in force in each country. In addition, the agreement provides mutual assistance to vessels in distress and allows the establishment of representations of shipping initiatives registered in the second country.

As part of the agreement, a joint maritime committee will be established to oversee the implementation of the agreement and discuss issues related to the field of maritime transport between the countries.

Transport Minister Miri Regev: "This agreement is another significant step in strengthening relations between Israel and Morocco. Opening maritime trade and transport routes between the countries will contribute to the economies of both countries and open new opportunities for cooperation. We are committed to continuing to develop relations between the countries by removing barriers and promoting cooperation in all areas, especially in the field of transport and ports."

CEO of the Ministry of Transport Moshe Ben Zaken: "The maritime agreement with Morocco will create business certainty and allow freer movement of goods between the countries. The establishment of the joint maritime committee will enable us to deal with common challenges and promote new initiatives in the field of maritime transport. We see this agreement as an important milestone in developing trade relations and hope to expand cooperation to other areas of transport in the future."