Minsk: Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade Mohamed Farid Saleh announced that Egypt aims to become a regional hub for manufacturing and exporting agricultural equipment and heavy machinery to African and Arab markets. This initiative is part of Egypt's strategy to enhance local industrialization and incorporate advanced technology.
According to State Information Service Egypt, the minister's comments came during a visit to Minsk, Belarus, where he toured factories including MTZ Tractors, MAZ trucks, and the Minsk Dairy Plant. These visits were part of his official trip to Belarus to attend the Egyptian-Belarusian Joint Committee meetings. The discussions centered on potential industrial cooperation between Egypt and Belarus.
Minister Farid highlighted a preliminary agreement for a feasibility study on establishing a joint industrial complex with MTZ. This initiative aims to localize the production of tractors and agricultural machinery in Egypt, focusing on high local-content rates. The project is expected to bolster exports to regional markets, reduce import costs, and create job opportunities.
The minister stated that Egypt has the potential to become a regional logistics hub for maintenance services, spare parts, and re-export activities. This is supported by Egypt's extensive network of free trade agreements with numerous countries and economic blocs.
During his visit to the MAZ factory, Farid discussed the possibility of establishing production and assembly lines for trucks and buses in Egypt. This would address local market needs and facilitate expansion into neighboring markets, aiding the development of Egypt's transport and engineering equipment sectors.
At the Minsk Dairy Plant, Farid explored the latest dairy and lactose production technologies. He also proposed a joint project in Egypt to produce powdered milk and infant formula using locally sourced raw materials, aiming to enhance added value and offer competitive pricing.
Farid emphasized that these initiatives align with an integrated vision to transform Egypt-Belarus trade cooperation into sustainable industrial and investment partnerships. He also mentioned organizing a joint business forum with 24 leading Egyptian companies from various sectors.
Belarusian company officials expressed their willingness to transfer technical expertise and provide training to their Egyptian counterparts. They highlighted that establishing production lines or joint factories in Egypt is a strategic priority for expanding into African and Middle Eastern markets.