Egypt is set to expand its agricultural export capacity significantly, thanks to recent discussions between key governmental figures. On March 4, 2025, Egypt's Minister of Transportation, Engineer Kamel al-Wazir, and Minister of Agriculture and Land Reclamation, Dr. Alaa Farouk, convened to explore how to maximize the benefits of the fast RORO (Roll-On, Roll-Off) line for transporting perishable agricultural products and Egyptian goods to Italy, and from there to Europe.
The meeting held at the Ministry of Transport highlighted the government's commitment to increasing exports to European markets, thereby supporting the national economy. The RORO line, operational since November 28, 2024, between the ports of Damietta and Trieste, has been pivotal in sending Egyptian products abroad.
Attendees included high-ranking officials such as Major General Nihad Shaheen, Deputy Minister for Maritime Transport, and Major General Tarek Abdelullah, Head of the Maritime Transport Sector, as well as other stakeholders from the Egyptian export council for agricultural products and the company Ban Marine, which operates the RORO line.
During the meeting, they reviewed the total activity of the RORO line since its launch. There was thorough discussion on the number of trips made and the key materials exported from Egypt to Italy, which then proceed to various European destinations. Proposed strategies and future plans from Ban Marine were presented, aiming to optimize the use of this service to its fullest potential for exporters.
One of the major highlights was the remarkable cost reduction for shipping, dropping from $26,050 to $3,250 per trip—an astonishing 88% decrease. The minister emphasized the necessity for operational measures to increase the efficacy of this transport method, especially considering its reciprocal advantages at both ports.
The RORO line not only simplifies trade but is also heralded as a “green corridor” between Egypt and Italy. This corridor enhances Egypt’s logistical capabilities and positions it as a central hub for operations between Europe and Africa.
"We are focusing on training truck drivers on modern simulators to properly handle loaded trucks when servicing the Italian market,” stated Kamel al-Wazir. He also stressed the importance of coordination among various agencies to promote the RORO line advantages among exporters and importers alike, encouraging proactive engagement across the nation.
The meeting did not shy away from the logistics involved; it emphasized the collaboration with the Ministry of Finance to procure security devices like X-ray scanners for the project, aiming to streamline customs procedures between Egypt and Italy. This included the development of operational applications to facilitate efficient customs oversight, health screenings, and food safety protocols.
Dr. Farouk pointed out, "The heart of this initiative lies not just in transportation but also how we can leverage it to boost trade efficiency and create job opportunities. By helping our products gain access to the European market, we significantly increase the employment potential for our drivers and administrative employees involved within the export sectors."
To bolster public awareness and engagement, it was suggested to host informational sessions led by the Federation of Egyptian Chambers of Commerce. These sessions will target specialized export associations and encourage participation from key industry players at local levels.
With the RORO service aiding the exportation of notable products like vegetables and fruits, it positions Egypt to reinforce its role as not only a supplier of agricultural goods but also as a logistical partner for trade between continents. There is hope this will lead to greater economic resilience and international competitiveness for Egypt.
The strategic vision aligns with governmental aspirations to present Egypt as not only an agricultural powerhouse but also as a match for European import demands by enhancing the efficiency and competitiveness of its export mechanisms.
Meanwhile, the collaboration extends beyond shipping logistics. It is intertwined with the larger economic goal of establishing Egypt as a leading logistical hub, promising mutual trade relationships and improved economic landscapes for both continents.
Officials reaffirmed the importance of making use of comprehensive training facilities available at Egypt's port training institutes so drivers can become accustomed to the highest operational standards to meet European requirements.
Through these initiatives and discussions, the hope rests on bolstering opportunities both for local industry and the national economy, setting the stage for substantial growth and expansion of Egypt’s agricultural export sector.