Sunday 09 Mar
Dr. Amr El-Samadouny, Secretary-General of the International Transport and Logistics Division of the Cairo Chamber of Commerce, stated that the planned fast Ro-Ro line between Egyptian and Croatian ports is a key move to boost Egyptian exports and solidify Egypt's position as a regional and international logistics hub. He added that this initiative builds upon the success of the existing Egypt-Italy Ro-Ro line, offering faster and more cost-effective access to European markets for Egyptian products.
Dr. Moustafa Madbouly had announced his aspiration to establish a fast Ro-Ro line between Egyptian and Croatian ports, following the success of the Ro-Ro line with Italy. He emphasized that this initiative would position both countries as key logistics hubs for neighboring markets.
El Samadouny explained that the Ro-Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off)
system, which transports loaded trucks via sea ferries, significantly reduces
transit time and streamlines import and export operations. He emphasized that
this method lowers logistical costs and accelerates Egyptian exports to European
markets, particularly amid global supply chain disruptions. Furthermore, he
highlighted that Egypt-Croatia cooperation extends beyond trade to include
logistical services and infrastructure investment alliances in neighboring
countries, fostering stronger economic integration.
He reported a decline in Egypt-Croatia trade, from $212
million in 2022 to $160 million in 2023, according to government data. He
stressed the need to diversify Egyptian exports, focusing on high-value
products, and aim for over $1 billion in trade through enhanced public-private
sector collaboration. He also noted that 33 Croatian companies operate in Egypt
with $20 million in investments, a modest figure. He highlighted double
taxation avoidance agreements and EU funding programs as opportunities to
attract greater Croatian investment.
Dr. El-Samadouny proposed several strategies to maximize the
benefits of the new Ro-Ro line. Key among these are expanding trade agreements
to ease goods movement and removing regulatory barriers. He also advocated for
incentives to encourage joint manufacturing and exporting to European markets.
He emphasized encouraging joint industrial projects between
Egyptian and Croatian companies, particularly in timber, food industries, and
medical supplies. He also highlighted the importance of multimodal transport
cooperation to integrate the Ro-Ro line with rail and road networks, improving
transport efficiency. El-Samadouny further stressed the need for integrated
logistics zones in both countries to facilitate bilateral trade.
Dr. Amr El-Samadouny concluded by asserting Egypt's advanced logistical capabilities and infrastructure, positioning it as a global transport and distribution hub. He emphasized the need for sustainable maritime transport reforms and expanded free zones, including the Suez Canal axis, to boost export competitiveness. He affirmed that the new Ro-Ro line with Croatia, coupled with strengthened investment and trade ties, will invigorate Egyptian exports and drive sustainable economic growth, aligning with state objectives.
