Egypt seeks Japanese industrial zone in SCZONE, invites Tokyo to African Business Forum

TOKYO – 3 June 2026: Egypt is seeking to deepen its strategic and economic partnership with Japan, pitching new investment opportunities and expanded industrial cooperation as part of a broader push to attract foreign investment and strengthen its role as a regional production and export hub.

In a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in Tokyo on Wednesday, Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty said Egypt looks forward to the establishment of a Japanese industrial zone within the Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZONE).

This would enable Japanese companies to benefit from the direct and indirect investment and customs incentives offered by the SCZONE to foreign investors, the foreign ministry said in a statement.

During the meeting, Abdelatty conveyed greetings from President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi to the Japanese prime minister and delivered a written message addressing ways to further develop the strategic partnership between Cairo and Tokyo.

The talks focused on boosting cooperation in economic and investment fields, with Abdelatty stressing that Egypt offers strategic solutions for Japanese companies seeking to diversify production bases and supply chains amid global geopolitical tensions.

He also called for increased Japanese investment across various sectors in Egypt.

The foreign minister highlighted opportunities for cooperation in industry and technology, including innovation, scientific research and digital transformation.

 

Meanwhile, Abdelatty underscored Egypt’s strategic location as a gateway for manufacturing and exports to Arab, African and European markets, supported by its extensive network of free trade agreements.

He also emphasized the importance of the development partnership between the two countries, particularly in education, health, transport, energy and sustainable development.

He urged continued cooperation on joint projects, including the Egypt-Japan University of Science and Technology and technical education and vocational training initiatives.

Trilateral Ties with Africa

The foreign minister outlined Egypt’s efforts to deepen trilateral cooperation with Japan and African countries, highlighting Egypt’s role as a gateway to Africa.

He also invited Japan to participate in the upcoming African Business Forum (Alamein Africa Forum), set to take place this month, describing it as a key platform for expanding trade and investment partnerships across the continent.

Abdelatty further reviewed Egypt’s efforts to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East, including developments in Gaza, Sudan and the Horn of Africa.

The Japanese prime minister welcomed the long-standing Egypt-Japan relationship, expressing appreciation for its continued development across various fields and commending Egypt’s efforts to promote regional stability and de-escalation.