Chinese capital speeds up Egypt’s industrial localization
Factory-led Chinese investments are reshaping Egypt’s manufacturing base, boosting exports and deepening Cairo–Beijing economic partnership
CAIRO, Egypt (MNTV) — Expanding Chinese investments are increasingly transforming Egypt’s industrial sector, supporting a shift from import reliance toward localized, export-driven manufacturing as bilateral economic ties with China continue to deepen.
In recent years, Chinese investment in Egypt has increasingly focused on building new factories and expanding industrial capacity, supporting the government’s drive to localize production and increase value-added manufacturing.
This shift aims to position Egypt as a regional manufacturing hub amid ongoing global trade uncertainty.
Egyptian business leaders view the trend as evidence of the growing strength of the Egypt–China comprehensive strategic partnership.
Mostafa Ibrahim, vice chairman of the China Committee at the Egyptian Businessmen’s Association, said China’s approach differs from investors that merely acquire existing assets, emphasizing that Chinese firms are building new production facilities from the ground up.
He added that the expansion of Chinese industrial projects reflects the current robustness of economic and political relations between the two countries.
Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade Hassan El-Khatib said the next phase of cooperation should focus on joint manufacturing and expanding export-oriented domestic industries.
He noted that Egypt’s Vision 2030 closely aligns with China’s Belt and Road Initiative, particularly in industrial connectivity, regional integration, and cross-border trade.
Officials say Egypt’s geographic position, competitive labor costs, and network of trade agreements enable it to function as a bridge between China and international markets.
Much of the industrial expansion is centered in Egypt’s designated industrial zones, notably the Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZone), which has emerged as a focal point for Chinese manufacturing investment.
Over the past three and a half years, SCZone has attracted approximately $11.6 billion in investments, with Chinese firms accounting for about half of the total, according to SCZone Authority Chairman Waleid Gamal El-Dein.
Within the zone, the China–Egypt TEDA Suez Economic and Trade Cooperation Zone hosts more than 200 industrial, service, and logistics projects, with total investments estimated at $3.8 billion.
Long-standing operations include a major fiberglass plant run by Chinese manufacturer Jushi, while appliance makers Haier and Midea have expanded their production footprints in Egypt.
Recent approvals include a $70 million glassware project, a $40 million microfiber production facility, and a $100 million integrated textile and garment complex, with a significant portion of output aimed at export markets.
Officials say these projects underscore a broader strategy to promote sustainable industrial growth, generate employment, and integrate Egypt more deeply into regional and global supply chains, highlighting the increasingly strategic character of Egypt–China economic cooperation.
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