A major phosphate industrial complex will be constructed in Egypt within the Suez Canal Economic Zone, with the project's cost estimated at $1 billion. This was announced by Egypt's State Information Service on November 28.
The corresponding agreement was signed by representatives of the Egyptian Elsewedy Industrial Development Company and CJN, a leading Chinese company in the phosphate industry. Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly attended the contract signing ceremony.
The complex will be located within the "Sokhna 360" industrial zone. The project will be implemented in three phases. The first phase is planned to produce phosphoric acid and fertilizers with a capacity of 300,000 tons each per year, with the facility expected to launch in 2028.
The second phase, scheduled for launch in 2031, focuses on the production of high-purity phosphate chemicals, such as purified phosphoric acid (PPA). The third phase involves transitioning to the use of new energy materials, including for electric batteries, which will position Egypt as a regional leader in this industry (launch in 2034).
"The project will create approximately 10,000 direct and indirect jobs, and a significant portion of the complex's output will be exported to markets in South Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and South America," the statement said.
The establishment of the industrial complex also includes the construction of a specialized research and development center to advance scientific research in phosphate chemical technologies, with its opening planned during the project's first phase.
Earlier in November, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi participated in the inauguration ceremony for new port terminals in East Port Said within the Suez Canal Economic Zone.
The Suez Canal Economic Zone encompasses six seaports, accounting for 20% of global container traffic volume and 10% of maritime trade.
