Egyptian officials met with German representatives to prepare for the seventh session of the Egyptian-German Joint Economic Committee. This key meeting, held in Cairo, focused on boosting trade and investment ties between the two nations amid ongoing global economic shifts.
Strong Bilateral Relations Take Center Stage
First Undersecretary of the Ministry of Investment and Foreign Trade and Head of the Egyptian Commercial Service, Abdel Aziz El-Sherif, led discussions with Miguel Seco, Commercial Counselor at the German Embassy in Cairo, and Maren Diale, President of the Arab-German Chamber of Industry and Commerce. The group reviewed the robust state of Egyptian-German economic relations and outlined steps for the upcoming committee session.
El-Sherif emphasized Germany’s role as a vital trade and investment partner for Egypt. He pointed out that Germany stands as a global leader in technology and innovation, making it an ideal collaborator for Egypt’s development goals. The talks highlighted how these ties have grown stronger in recent years, especially after Egypt’s economic reforms aimed at attracting foreign investors.
Recent events, such as the elevation of Egypt-EU relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2025, have further supported this momentum. Egypt’s push for renewable energy and infrastructure projects aligns well with German expertise in these areas.
Key Economic Figures and Trends
Bilateral trade between Egypt and Germany hit about 5.5 billion euros in 2024, showing a steady rise from previous years. By the end of February 2025, cumulative German investments in Egypt reached around 3 billion euros. Currently, about 1,738 German companies operate in the Egyptian market, contributing to sectors like manufacturing, energy, and logistics.
These numbers reflect a positive trend. For instance, German firms have invested heavily in Egypt’s renewable energy projects, including solar and wind initiatives that support Egypt’s Climate Strategy 2050. In 2025, Egypt mobilized 750 million dollars in green bond finance, with European backing, to advance these efforts.
Here is a quick look at recent trade and investment highlights:
| Year | Bilateral Trade (Euros) | German Investments (Euros) | Number of German Companies in Egypt |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 4.8 billion | 2.5 billion | 1,600 |
| 2024 | 5.5 billion | 2.8 billion | 1,700 |
| 2025 (up to Feb) | Not finalized yet | 3.0 billion | 1,738 |
This table shows the upward trajectory, driven by Egypt’s business-friendly reforms like streamlined investment procedures and incentives for foreign firms.
Preparations for the Seventh Session
The meeting delved into arrangements for the seventh session of the Joint Economic Committee, set for later in 2026. Participants coordinated on technical and economic topics for the agenda, aiming to cover trade expansion, technology transfer, and joint ventures.
El-Sherif described the committee as a crucial tool for deepening economic cooperation. Past sessions have led to agreements on energy efficiency and renewable projects, building on the Egyptian-German Joint Committee for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency established years ago.
With global challenges like inflation and supply chain issues in mind, the agenda will likely address sustainable growth strategies. Egypt’s recent monetary easing in 2026, as inflation moderates, could make it more appealing for German investors.
Spotlight on the Business Forum
Alongside the committee meetings, preparations for the Egyptian-German Business Forum were a major focus. This event will bring together top companies from both countries to explore new trade and investment opportunities.
The forum serves as a platform for networking and deal-making. Organizers plan to ensure broad participation, including from sectors like petrochemicals, railways, and green technology. For example, previous collaborations include Siemens deals for Egypt’s high-speed rail lines, which have enhanced connectivity from the Red Sea to the Mediterranean coast.
Key goals for the forum include:
- Increasing bilateral trade volumes beyond current levels.
- Attracting more German tech investments in Egypt’s industrial zones.
- Fostering partnerships in renewable energy to meet Egypt’s 2050 climate targets.
- Addressing barriers to business, such as regulatory hurdles.
These efforts build on successful past events, like the first round of the Egypt-Germany NRW joint economic summit in 2024, which highlighted Egypt’s financial and industrial policies.
Looking Ahead to Enhanced Cooperation
As Egypt navigates economic recovery in 2026, ties with Germany offer promising avenues for growth. Officials from both sides expressed optimism about expanding cooperation, especially in light of Egypt’s strategic role in regional stability and energy supply.
Recent high-level visits, such as those involving EU representatives, underscore Egypt’s importance as a partner. With Germany’s expertise in advanced manufacturing and Egypt’s market potential, the upcoming session could lead to new agreements that benefit both economies.
Experts predict that successful outcomes from these talks could boost Egypt’s GDP through increased foreign direct investment. This aligns with broader trends, like QatarEnergy’s recent deals with Egypt on liquefied natural gas, signaling a regional push for energy security.
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