Latest news with #OperationMarhaba2025
Ya Biladi
5 days ago
- Business
- Ya Biladi
GNV announces major investments in Morocco during Tangier event
GNV, the MSC Group ferry company, organized a special event in Tangier on May 27, to present its new vessel, GNV Orion, and announce significant future investments in Morocco, the company's second-largest market after Italy. The GNV Orion, which departed from the GSI shipyard in Canton, China, on April 30, made a symbolic stopover in Tangier before heading to Italy for final preparations ahead of its late June service launch. The timing coincides with the upcoming Operation Marhaba 2025 (June 5 - September 15). The event brought together institutional representatives, key partners, including Banque Populaire du Maroc, and local media. GNV CEO Matteo Catani attended alongside the company's Moroccan partner, Mohammed Kabbaj. Catani announced the company's fleet expansion plan, adding eight new vessels between 2025 and 2030. The first two LNG-powered ships, GNV Virgo and GNV Aurora, will enter service by year-end with over 50% CO₂ reduction. Four additional vessels expected from 2028 will accommodate up to 2,500 passengers. Infrastructure limitations at Moroccan ports, including Tangier Med's 200-meter length restriction, currently prevent the deployment of these larger vessels. GNV transported approximately 455,000 passengers on Moroccan routes in 2024.
Morocco World
6 days ago
- Business
- Morocco World
Morocco Simplifies Vehicle Import Rules for Diaspora in Operation Marhaba 2025
Rabat — Morocco's Customs Administration has announced two major simplifications for vehicle imports as part of Operation Marhaba 2025, the annual program supporting Moroccans living abroad during their summer return visits. 90% tax reduction for senior citizens Moroccans aged 60 and older who have lived abroad for at least 10 years can now receive a 90% tax reduction on their imported vehicle's new-state value. The customs administration has expanded accepted proof of foreign residence beyond consular certificates to include detailed residence history from police prefectures, city halls, or employment departments, residence permits or consular registration cards, foreign identity cards showing overseas addresses, and foreign residence certificates. Provincial and prefectural customs directors can now validate these alternative documents through delegation authority. Streamlined process for permanent returns Moroccans returning permanently to Morocco receive a three-year age reduction when calculating vehicle taxes and duties. This one-time benefit covers one vehicle per person and excludes diplomats and students. The customs administration eliminated previous paperwork requirements that demanded two years of pay slips from wage earners and recent tax documents from merchants and professionals. All other eligibility conditions remain unchanged. Operation Marhaba Launched in 2001 by the Mohammed V Foundation for Solidarity, Operation Marhaba coordinates annual support for millions of Moroccan expatriates visiting home. The program manages transportation, customs procedures, and logistical assistance during peak summer travel periods. These customs reforms reflect Morocco's commitment to strengthening ties with its diaspora while reducing bureaucratic barriers. The changes particularly benefit older Moroccans who have established long-term residence abroad and those making permanent returns to their homeland. The customs administration has published an updated official guide online detailing all new provisions. These measures aim to ensure smoother services across all national customs structures during the busy summer travel season when Moroccan communities worldwide return home to visit family and friends. Tags: Custom administrationMoroccan living abroadMoroccooperation marhaba
