Shalaby: Automotive Industry Is Egypt’s Gateway to Attract Investments, Transfer Technology, and Create Millions of Jobs

Ahmed Bahaa Shalaby, head of the Industry Committee in the Egyptian House of Representatives, confirmed that the state’s efforts to localize the automotive industry and increase the percentage of local content represent one of the main axes supporting Egypt’s industrial sector. He noted that the committee backs all government steps aimed at building an integrated automotive industry based on a strong base of feeder industries and local component manufacturers.

Speaking on the sidelines of the Egyptian Businessmen’s Association conference held at a Cairo hotel, Shalaby stated that deepening local manufacturing and maximizing added value are fundamental pillars of the Industry Committee’s vision. He emphasized that this aligns directly with the state’s objectives in the automotive sector, which is considered one of the most capable industries for attracting investments, transferring technology, and creating job opportunities.

He explained that raising local content ratios in the automotive industry is not limited to reducing reliance on imports but extends to enhancing the competitiveness of Egyptian products, developing feeder industries, and preparing the sector for greater integration into regional and global supply chains.

Shalaby added that the committee views the automotive industry as a strategic sector linked to dozens of other industrial activities, ranging from auto components and engineering industries to technology-driven sectors associated with the shift toward electric vehicles and new energy systems. He stressed that building a strong national industry requires expanding high-tech manufacturing alongside deepening local production.

The Industry Committee head pointed out that the success of automotive localization plans also depends on providing a business environment attractive to investment, characterized by transparency, fast procedures, and an efficient legislative framework. He noted that the committee works through its oversight and legislative role to support policies that accelerate the implementation of industrial projects and enhance investor confidence.

Shalaby revealed that the Industry Committee continues to review and develop several legislations and regulations governing the industrial sector, including the licensing system, investment incentives, and programs supporting local products. This aligns with current phase requirements and addresses challenges facing manufacturers.

He affirmed that moving toward more flexible and efficient legislation is a necessary step to support the state’s objectives in the automotive sector, especially as Egypt seeks to transform from a consumer market into a regional hub for the automotive industry.