Egypt approves 3 new private free-zone projects worth $207m to boost exports

Egypt’s Cabinet on Thursday approved three new investment projects worth a combined around $207 million under the private free-zone system, part of efforts to expand industrial output, strengthen exports and create jobs.

The projects, which span textiles, PVC products and metalwork, will operate with 100 per cent of production allocated for export, the Cabinet said in a statement after its 59th meeting chaired by Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly.

The largest project will be set up by Leed New Material, a unit of international flooring and PVC group Kentier, which plans to invest $108.9 million in a factory in New Alamein City. The plant, spanning 468,510 square metres, will manufacture PVC panels, flooring, wardrobes, wooden doors and decorative wall products. Construction is slated for completion with operations starting by March 2026. The facility is expected to employ about 2,150 workers, including 2,000 Egyptians. At least 30 per cent of inputs will be sourced locally from the start, in line with efforts to expand domestic manufacturing.

In Beni Suef, Alex Apparels will establish a $20 million clothing factory on a 66,317-square-metre site. The facility will produce 40 million garments annually for export markets, create 9,000 jobs, and use 30 per cent local inputs, according to the Cabinet.

Meanwhile, textile manufacturer Alpine Egytex will invest $78.5 million in a plant in 10th of Ramadan City, Sharqia Governorate. The project, expected to complete construction and installation within 18 months, will employ 3,900 people and export all its output. The factory will focus on socks and garments, with plans to increase the share of local content from 30 per cent to 50 per cent within five years.

Egypt is seeking to strengthen its role in global value chains and attract foreign investment by positioning itself as a regional hub for manufacturing and exports, leveraging trade agreements, skilled labour and proximity to international markets.

“These projects will reduce imports, boost foreign exchange earnings, and support Egypt’s broader industrial strategy,” the Cabinet said.

Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English