Egypt and China are stepping up their strategic partnership, signaling stronger alignment in tech, trade, and industrial development. On June 23, 2025, Egypt’s Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade, Hassan El-Khatib, met with Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao in Beijing to lay the groundwork for deeper economic cooperation.
According to a statement from Egypt’s Investment Ministry, both parties agreed to scale up collaboration in high-growth sectors such as electric vehicles, electronics, water desalination, artificial intelligence, and solar panel manufacturing. The talks also explored enhancing Egypt’s supply chain infrastructure and feeder industries, which could support the country’s ambition to become a regional export hub.
With bilateral trade reaching $17 billion, China remains Egypt’s largest trading partner. The Chinese Minister reaffirmed this position, noting Beijing’s active role in Egypt’s mega-projects. These include investments in the TEDA-Suez Economic Zone, the Iconic Tower, the Central Business District in the New Administrative Capital, the electric train system, and renewable energy projects.
El-Khatib described the relationship as “a comprehensive partnership,” emphasizing that Egypt is looking to convert high-level dialogue into real investments, especially through joint ventures and local manufacturing. He also expressed optimism about the upcoming visit of the Chinese Premier to Cairo, framing it as a chance to accelerate implementation of key projects.
From China’s standpoint, Egypt is a strategic launchpad into Africa, given its geographic position and access to multiple regional trade agreements. Minister Wang highlighted Egypt’s progress in improving its investment climate and aligning with international trade standards, which makes it an attractive long-term partner.
To build on this momentum, both countries plan to host an investment promotion forum in Egypt and convene the 10th Egypt-China Joint Committee before the end of the year.
This renewed alignment between two of the world’s fastest-developing economies could unlock significant gains not just for Egypt, but also for Africa’s broader ambitions around industrialisation, energy transition, and smart infrastructure.
