Egypt to launch $573m phosphoric acid plant in 2026

Egypt’s Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources is moving ahead with a major industrial project to locally produce phosphoric acid, as part of a broader strategy to unlock the economic potential of the country’s mineral wealth, the ministry said in a statement on Thursday.

Minister of Petroleum Karim Badawy met with shareholders of the Abu Tartour Phosphoric Acid Company to review the latest progress on the project, which aims to replace raw phosphate exports with higher-value chemical production.

The $573 million project will be developed in two phases, each with an annual production capacity of 250,000 tons. Construction of the first phase is expected to begin in early 2026, with commercial operations targeted for 2028.

“The project is a strategic model of public-private cooperation and a key step in maximizing the value of Egypt’s mineral resources,” Minister Badawy said, adding that phosphoric acid is a critical input for the chemical and fertiliser industries.

The project’s final engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contracts are set to be signed this month, paving the way for ground-breaking works. The minister emphasised that the initiative aligns with Egypt’s Vision 2030 goals to build a competitive, industrial economy with strong value-added exports.

“This is a landmark project for Egypt’s mining sector,” Minister Badawy said, noting the ministry’s push to prioritise mining as a key pillar of future economic growth.

Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English

Subediting: Y.Yasser