Egypt’s Cement Industry Ranks Among Top 10 Worldwide!

Egyptian Minister of Trade and Industry, Engineer Ahmed Samir, confirmed that Egypt is the largest cement producer in the continent of Africa, and is among the top 10 cement-producing countries in the world, with a total of 92 million tons annually.

During his participation in the opening of the Arab International Conference and Exhibition for Cement Industry, organized by the Arab Union for Cement and Building Materials, in coordination with the Arab Economic Unity Council and the Arab Ministers of Housing and Urban Development Council, he stated that the cement sector is considered one of the most important main industrial sectors in the national economy, and contributes to providing the essential needs for infrastructure projects and urban projects.

The minister stated that “the global crises have highlighted the role of the industrial sector in economic recovery, as it is the backbone on which the state can rely to face global and regional economic challenges in the region, given its contribution of about 17% of the gross domestic product, and its employment of about 15% of the regular workforce, in addition to its contribution of 80% to 85% of total non-oil commodity exports.”

He pointed out that “the conference is of great importance, especially in light of the Egyptian government’s keenness to align with the goals of sustainable development in all productive sectors, particularly the industrial sector in the face of climate change and reducing emissions, according to the global roadmap for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, especially carbon dioxide.

Challenges

The minister explained that global challenges and weaknesses facing the global industrial sector, such as high energy and raw material prices, or supply chain issues, have posed challenges for the cement industry sector, noting that these challenges have provided opportunities for the Egyptian industry.

He indicated that the development of the cement sector in Egypt is essential to achieve developmental and social goals, such as the fourth generation cities that aim to provide a comprehensive future model for housing and work, and achieve the goals of developing the most needy areas through projects such as a decent life, in addition to developmental projects in the logistics, transportation, roads, bridges, construction, and addressing informal settlements sectors.

Engineer Ahmed Samir confirmed that the road is still filled with opportunities and challenges, which require the participation of everyone to achieve sustainable development in the Egyptian industrial sector, especially the cement industry, by enhancing the role of the private sector and localizing major industries.

He emphasized the government’s commitment to providing incentives for Egyptian and regional manufacturers and creating an attractive industrial work environment.

Great development

Prince Nayef bin Sultan bin Mohammed bin Saud Al-Kabir, the President of the Arab Union for Cement and Building Materials, stated that the cement sector in Arab countries has witnessed significant development in recent years, as it has contributed to meeting domestic needs and exporting to foreign markets.

Promoting the green cement industry

The ambassador, Shahira Hassan, who represents the Arab League at the conference, emphasized the importance of enhancing the green cement industry in the upcoming phase. This will help reduce emissions and harmful gases, while also contributing to increasing cement production without harming the environment.

She pointed out the significance of strengthening joint efforts to address the current global economic challenges.

Ahmed Sherine Kareem, Egypt’s representative in the Arab Union for Cement and Building Materials, emphasized the importance of the cement industry in meeting the needs of the Egyptian market and exporting to foreign markets.

He pointed out that the exhibition, which includes 142 pavilions and 750 exhibitors, represents an important opportunity to exchange experiences and knowledge about the cement industry and to enhance mutual cooperation to face the challenges faced by this industry.

(Al-Khaleej)