Egypt’s Cement Industry is Poised for Export Expansion

20 May, 2024

Egypt is well-equipped to meet the international market’s rising demand for high-quality cement.

Egypt’s cement industry is at a pivotal juncture. It’s ready to leverage its surplus production, estimated to be around 35 mn tons, and its strategic location to extend its reach into key export markets such as the US, Western Europe, and West Africa. With more than 20 factories that are collectively capable of producing more than 90 mn tons of cement per annum, Egypt is well-equipped to meet the international market’s rising demand for high-quality cement.

Recent trends are already encouraging, with exports hitting 3.5 mn tons in 2023, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 45% in the past five years. Egypt has been historically focused on supplying cement to its neighbors in Libya, Sudan, and Palestine, but recently cement producers have been able to reach markets further away including the highly competitive US market. But challenges persist in the form of pricing and logistics.

Unlike global trends that favor bulk shipments, Egypt predominantly exports cement in bagged form, placing it at a disadvantage in terms of FOB (FreeonBoard) pricing competitiveness compared to major bulk exporters like Turkey.

In addition to packaging expenses, Egypt’s cement factories are often located a significant distance away from its ports adding to transportation costs and FOB pricing. Industry players are however aware of these impediments and have taken proactive steps to enhance export competitiveness.

Establishing cement silo terminals inside ports that are strategically located near major production facilities is one way of addressing cost efficiency. Transmar sister company TCI, a leading Egyptian terminal operator, has spearheaded one such initiative in the Arish and West Port Said Ports. Terminals located within close proximity to key manufacturing hubs can minimize costs and maximize efficiency which will ultimately facilitate the efficient export of cement in bulk form.

These types of initiatives will allow the cost of Egyptian cement products to align more closely with international bulk cement prices presenting a compelling proposition for international buyers, particularly those in the US and Western Europe, two key markets that hold huge potential for Egyptian cement exporters. The EU’s introduction of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) will further impact the rising cost of cement in the West and may drive an increased reliance on imports.

Backed by surplus production capacity and a strategic location, Egypt’s cement industry is well-positioned to capitalize on these evolving market dynamics. By embracing initiatives aimed at optimizing efficiency and reducing costs, Egyptian producers can enhance their competitiveness on the global stage.