DP World has begun operating a new shipping connection between Morocco, the UK, and Europe, following the arrival of the first vessel under the DP World Atlas service in the Port of Agadir on 17 November. The M/V BF Carp discharged more than 400 new reefer containers ahead of its first northbound sailing to London Gateway and Antwerp.
"We are very pleased to announce the arrival of the first ship in our new shipping service, DP World Atlas, connecting Morocco with the UK and Europe," said Dirk Hoffmann, Commercial Director at DP World Atlas. "The M/V BF Carp has arrived in the Port of Agadir to discharge over 400 brand new reefer containers. The ship will commence her first Northbound voyage to DP World's London Gateway and Antwerp Gateway ports next week. We are now officially open for business, and we welcome you to make bookings with us for our first voyage."
© DP World
The new route is intended to reduce transit times for Moroccan fresh produce entering the UK by up to two days. According to the company, shifting cargo from road to sea on this corridor could reduce carbon emissions by about 70 per cent.
Morocco exports more than 6.5 million tons of fruit and vegetables to Western Europe each year. Demand for Moroccan produce continues to increase, and the Atlas route offers a direct connection between Agadir, Casablanca, London Gateway, and Antwerp Gateway, integrating with DP World's wider network.
The move from road to sea is expected to limit risks linked to long road transport, including congestion, border delays, and multiple handling steps that can affect product condition. The service also avoids transit through Tangier/Algeciras and Calais/Dover, aiming to streamline movement across a supply chain of more than 3,000 km.
The M/V BF Carp will depart on its first northbound voyage next week, carrying Moroccan produce to the UK and Belgium. It is scheduled to return to Agadir on 24 November and depart again the following evening. The company says this will form the basis of a regular sailing pattern.
The launch comes at a time when UK supply chains are examining transport reliability and environmental requirements, while Moroccan growers continue to expand exports to Europe.
Source: FreshTalkDaily
