1. International Trade
China & Egypt
Ahmed Gamal Ahmed Shamandy
Master’s student in BUPT Business school – International Business
Email : ahshmandi20151010@gmail.com
Spring 29-05-2023

2. Abstract:
International trade has become an integral part of the global economy, fostering economic
growth, development, and cooperation between nations. This abstract explores the dynamics and
implications of the trade relationship between China and Egypt, two significant players in the
international trade arena. China, the world's largest exporter and second-largest importer, has
emerged as a major economic powerhouse in recent decades. With its vast manufacturing
capabilities, technological advancements, and competitive pricing, China has established itself as
a leading trading partner for numerous countries worldwide. Egypt, situated in a geographically
strategic location at the crossroads of Africa, Asia, and Europe, has been actively engaged in
trade for centuries, with a rich history as a trading hub. Over the years, China and Egypt have
developed a mutually beneficial trade relationship characterized by increasing bilateral trade
volumes and diverse trade flows. China's rapid economic growth and expanding middle class
have fueled its demand for commodities such as oil, natural gas, and agricultural products, which
Egypt, as a resource-rich nation, has been able to supply. On the other hand, Egypt has sought to
diversify its export base and reduce its trade deficit by exporting goods such as textiles,
chemicals, and manufactured products to the Chinese market. This abstract delves into the factors
that have contributed to the growth of Sino-Egyptian trade. It examines the role of government
policies, trade agreements, and investment initiatives in facilitating trade flows between the two
nations. Furthermore, it highlights the significance of infrastructure development, particularly in
Egypt's case, as it has aimed to enhance its transportation and logistics capabilities to facilitate
trade with China and other international partners. The abstract also explores the potential
challenges and opportunities within the China-Egypt trade relationship. It addresses issues such
as trade imbalances, non-tariff barriers, and the need for greater market access and diversification.
Additionally, it discusses the potential for increased cooperation in sectors such as renewable
energy, tourism, and technological innovation, which could further strengthen the trade ties
between China and Egypt. Finally, this abstract emphasizes the broader implications of the
China-Egypt trade relationship for regional and global trade dynamics. It examines how the
evolving trade patterns between these two nations can contribute to economic growth, job
creation, and social development in both countries. Moreover, it highlights the significance of
maintaining a balanced and mutually beneficial trade relationship to foster sustainable
development and inclusive economic prosperity. Overall, this abstract provides an overview of
the multifaceted nature of the trade relationship between China and Egypt, shedding light on the
opportunities, challenges, and implications for both nations and the broader global economy.
Keywords: international trade, China, Egypt, bilateral trade, trade flows, government policies, trade agreements,
investment initiatives, infrastructure development, trade imbalances, non-tariff barriers, market access, diversification,
renewable energy, tourism, technological innovation, regional trade dynamics, global trade, economic growth, job creation,
social development, sustainable development, inclusive economic prosperity.
Introduction:
Egypt, a country situated at the crossroads of Africa, Asia, and Europe, has experienced notable
development in recent years. In 2022, Egypt's economy demonstrated positive growth and
diversification, with various sectors contributing to its overall development. This introduction
provides an in-depth overview of the development situation in Egypt in 2022, encompassing key
economic indicators such as total exports, total imports, the proportion of imports and exports to
GDP, major export industries, major import industries, and important trading partners. In terms of
total exports, Egypt witnessed a steady growth trajectory in 2022. The country's total exports
reached approximately $29 billion (USD). Notably, Egypt has a diverse range of export products,

3. including petroleum and petroleum products, textiles, chemicals, agricultural goods, and finished
products such as furniture and textiles. The petroleum sector remains a crucial contributor to
Egypt's export revenue, leveraging the country's significant oil and gas reserves. Egypt's total
imports also reflect the country's growing economic activity. In 2022, the total value of Egyptian
imports amounted to around $85 billion (USD) . The imports consist of various commodities,
machinery, equipment, intermediate goods, and consumer products. The increasing import
volume signifies Egypt's expanding domestic demand and the need for raw materials and capital
goods to support its industrial and manufacturing sectors. The proportion of imports and exports
to Egypt's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) provides insight into the country's trade dependence.
In 2022, exports accounted for approximately 13% of Egypt's GDP, highlighting the importance
of international trade as a driver of economic growth and development. Similarly, imports
constituted around 38% of Egypt's GDP, indicating the country's reliance on imported goods and
services to meet its domestic needs and support its industries. In terms of major export industries,
Egypt boasts several sectors that contribute significantly to its export revenue. The petroleum
industry holds a prominent position, given Egypt's status as a major oil and gas producer and
exporter. Additionally, the textile and garment industry has been a longstanding pillar of Egypt's
export sector, leveraging its rich cotton resources to manufacture and export textiles to global
markets. Other notable export industries include chemicals, agricultural products, and finished
products. Regarding major import industries, Egypt relies on various sectors to satisfy its
domestic demand and support industrial activities. These sectors include machinery and
equipment, chemicals, metals, electrical machinery, and transport equipment. Investments in
these import-dependent industries contribute to infrastructure development, industrial
modernization, and the growth of manufacturing capabilities within the country. In terms of
trading partners, Egypt has established significant relationships with various countries. China has
emerged as a key trading partner for Egypt, featuring prominently in both imports and exports.
Additionally, the European Union countries, the United States, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey play
crucial roles in facilitating Egypt's trade flows and economic cooperation. These partnerships are
instrumental in expanding market access, diversifying export destinations, and attracting foreign
direct investment. Overall, Egypt's development situation in 2022 reflects positive growth,
diversification of industries, and engagement in international trade. The country's exports and
imports continue to contribute significantly to its GDP, highlighting the importance of trade as a
driving force for economic development. As Egypt strengthens its trade relationships and
implements supportive policies, it aims to further enhance its economic resilience, attract
investment, and foster sustainable growth.
References:
1. [Source: Central Bank of Egypt, Annual Report 2022]
2. [Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration, Egypt]
3. [the United Nations comtrade database on international trade]
1- : The Total exports of Egypt and the most industries exports:
In 2022, Egypt's total exports amounted to approximately $29 billion (USD). These exports
encompassed a diverse range of products and industries, contributing to the country's economic
growth and foreign exchange earnings.
The main sectors driving Egypt's exports include:
1. Petroleum and Petroleum Products: Egypt is a significant producer and exporter of petroleum
and petroleum-based products. Crude oil, refined petroleum products, and natural gas contribute

4. significantly to the country's export revenue. Egypt benefits from its strategic location as a transit
point for energy exports to global markets.
2. Textiles and Garments: The textile and garment industry has long been a key pillar of Egypt's
export sector. The country produces a variety of textile products, including cotton fabrics, yarn,
and readymade garments. Egyptian cotton is renowned for its quality, and textile exports play a
vital role in generating foreign exchange and employment opportunities.
3. Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals: Egypt has a well-established chemicals industry, producing a
range of products such as fertilizers, plastics, and pharmaceuticals. Chemical exports contribute
significantly to Egypt's export earnings, with a growing demand for these products in
international markets.
4. Agricultural Products: Egypt has a diverse agricultural sector, producing a variety of crops and
food products. Key agricultural exports include fresh produce (such as fruits and vegetables),
processed food products, and beverages. The country's fertile lands and favorable climate make it
an important exporter in the region.
5. Finished Products: Egypt also exports finished goods such as furniture, ceramics, and textiles.
These value-added products cater to both regional and international markets, contributing to the
country's export revenue and promoting its manufacturing capabilities.
It's important to note that the composition of Egypt's exports may vary from year to year due to
factors such as global market demand, domestic production, and government policies. Therefore,
continuous monitoring of trade data is necessary to track the evolving trends in Egypt's export
sector.
Reference:
1. Source: Central Bank of Egypt, Annual Report 2022
2. the United Nations comtrade database on international trade.
“The United Nations comtrade database on international trade. Latest available data2022-2023”

5. “The United Nations comtrade database on international trade. Latest available data2022-2023”
2- The Total imports of Egypt and the most industries imports:
In 2022, Egypt's total imports amounted to approximately $85 billion (USD) . These imports
encompassed a diverse range of goods and services, reflecting the country's growing domestic
demand and industrial needs.
The imports of Egypt cover various sectors and industries, including machinery and equipment,
chemicals, metals, electrical machinery, transport equipment, and consumer products. Machinery
and equipment imports are crucial for driving Egypt's infrastructure development, industrial
modernization, and manufacturing capabilities. Chemical imports support various sectors, such as
pharmaceuticals, fertilizers, and petrochemicals, contributing to Egypt's industrial growth.
Metals, including iron, steel, and aluminum, are also imported to meet the country's construction
and manufacturing requirements. Electrical machinery imports cater to Egypt's technological
needs and the advancement of its electrical infrastructure. Additionally, transport equipment
imports include vehicles, aircraft, and their parts, facilitating transportation and logistics within
the country.
These imports signify Egypt's efforts to support its domestic industries, enhance productivity, and
meet the demands of its growing population. They also reflect the country's reliance on imported
goods and services to supplement its domestic production and satisfy consumer needs.
Understanding the composition and magnitude of Egypt's imports provides insights into the
country's economic activities, industrial development, and consumption patterns. It highlights the
importance of international trade and the interconnectedness of the global economy for Egypt's
growth and development.
Reference:
Source: Central Bank of Egypt, Annual Report 2022
the United Nations comtrade database on international trade

6. “The United Nations comtrade database on international trade. Latest available data2022-2023”
“The United Nations comtrade database on international trade. Latest available data2022-2023”
The proportion of imports and exports to GDP of Egypt
In 2022, Egypt's exports and imports accounted for a significant proportion of its Gross Domestic
Product (GDP), highlighting the country's reliance on international trade.
Exports:
The total value of Egyptian exports in 2022 reached approximately $29 billion (USD). When
compared to Egypt's GDP, which was around $235 billion (USD) in the same year, exports
constituted approximately 12.3% of the country's GDP.
Imports:
Egypt's total imports in 2022 amounted to approximately $85 billion (USD). In relation to the
country's GDP, which was approximately $235 billion (USD), imports accounted for
approximately 36.2% of Egypt's GDP.
The proportion of exports and imports to GDP signifies the importance of international trade in
Egypt's economic activities. The export sector contributes significantly to the country's economic
growth and development, while imports play a crucial role in meeting domestic demands and
supporting various industries. It is worth noting that the proportion of imports to GDP is higher

7. than that of exports, indicating that Egypt has a trade deficit. This trade deficit implies that the
country's imports exceed its exports, resulting in a net outflow of resources. The proportion of
imports and exports to GDP provides insights into the openness of Egypt's economy and its
integration into the global trade system. While exports contribute to generating foreign exchange
earnings and creating employment opportunities, imports fulfill domestic needs and support
industrial activities, driving infrastructure development and industrial modernization.
Understanding the dynamics of Egypt's trade balance, the industries contributing to exports and
imports, and the country's trading partners are crucial for comprehending the broader implications
of international trade on Egypt's economic development.
Reference:
Source: Central Bank of Egypt, Annual Report 2022
the United Nations comtrade database on international trade
“The United Nations comtrade database on international trade. Latest available data2022-2023”

8. which countries are important trading partners of Egypt:
China: China has become a crucial trading partner for Egypt. The bilateral trade between the two
countries has been growing steadily in recent years. China is one of Egypt's largest importers,
particularly for machinery, equipment, electronics, and textiles. Additionally, Egypt exports
various products to China, including agricultural goods, petroleum, and minerals.
European Union (EU) Countries: The EU collectively represents a significant trading partner for
Egypt. Countries within the EU, such as Germany, Italy, France, and the Netherlands, engage in
substantial trade with Egypt. The EU primarily imports Egyptian textiles, garments, agricultural
products, and petroleum. Conversely, Egypt imports machinery, vehicles, pharmaceuticals, and
chemicals from EU countries.
United States: The United States is an essential trading partner for Egypt, with bilateral trade
flows between the two countries. Egypt exports a range of products to the United States,
including textiles, garments, chemicals, and agricultural goods. The United States exports
machinery, equipment, vehicles, and grains to Egypt.
Saudi Arabia: Egypt shares a significant trade relationship with Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia is one
of Egypt's largest sources of imports, including petroleum, petroleum products, chemicals, and
plastics. Egypt also exports various products to Saudi Arabia, such as textiles, food products, and
agricultural goods.
Turkey: Turkey has emerged as an important trading partner for Egypt. Both countries engage in
bilateral trade, with Turkey exporting machinery, textiles, and vehicles to Egypt. Egypt exports
agricultural products, petroleum, and chemicals to Turkey.
United Arab Emirates (UAE): The UAE maintains a substantial trade relationship with Egypt.
The UAE exports petroleum and petroleum products, machinery, and vehicles to Egypt. Egypt, in
turn, exports agricultural products, textiles, and chemicals to the UAE.
These countries represent key trading partners for Egypt in 2022, contributing to the overall trade
volume and economic cooperation between Egypt and the international community. The trade
relationships with these countries are characterized by the exchange of various goods, including
raw materials, manufactured products, and agricultural commodities. These partnerships play a
vital role in promoting economic growth, diversification, and development in Egypt.

9. “The United Nations comtrade database on international trade. Latest available data2022-2023”
“The United Nations comtrade database on international trade. Latest available data2022-2023”
International trade policies of Egypt:
Egypt has pursued various international policies to promote trade, attract investments, and
strengthen its economic ties with other nations. These policies have aimed to create a favorable
business environment, expand market access, and encourage exports. This section provides an
overview of Egypt's international policies, including its approach to trade liberalization, trade
barriers, and export promotion.
Trade Liberalization:
Egypt has embraced a policy of trade liberalization and economic openness. The country has been
actively engaged in bilateral and multilateral trade negotiations, aiming to reduce trade barriers
and promote free trade. Egypt is a member of several regional trade agreements, including the
Greater Arab Free Trade Area (GAFTA), the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa
(COMESA), and the Arab-Mediterranean Free Trade Area (AMFTA). These agreements have
facilitated market access for Egyptian goods and enhanced economic integration within the
region.
Free Trade Policy:
Egypt has been proactive in establishing free trade agreements (FTAs) with various countries and
economic blocs. The country has signed FTAs with partners such as the European Union, Turkey,

10. and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries. These agreements have played a
crucial role in expanding Egypt's export markets and attracting foreign investment by providing
preferential access to these markets. Furthermore, Egypt has been exploring opportunities for
deeper economic cooperation through negotiations for a comprehensive FTA with the United
States.
Trade Barriers:
Despite the pursuit of trade liberalization, Egypt faces certain trade barriers that affect its
international trade activities. Non-tariff barriers such as complex customs procedures, technical
regulations, and sanitary and phytosanitary measures can pose challenges to exporters. Efforts
have been made to streamline customs procedures and simplify trade regulations to enhance
efficiency and reduce trade costs. Moreover, Egypt has been working to align its trade-related
regulations with international standards to facilitate trade and comply with global norms.
Export Promotion:
Egypt has implemented various policies and initiatives to promote exports and enhance the
competitiveness of its industries. The government has established dedicated institutions, such as
the Export Development Authority (EDA), to support exporters and provide them with market
information, export financing, and capacity-building programs. Egypt has also implemented
sector-specific export strategies, targeting industries such as textiles, agriculture, and engineering
goods, to enhance their export performance.
Furthermore, Egypt has actively engaged in trade missions, participation in international trade
fairs and exhibitions, and the provision of trade incentives and subsidies to encourage exporters.
The country has been leveraging its strategic location and logistics infrastructure, such as the
Suez Canal and major seaports, to facilitate trade and position itself as a regional trade hub.
Pushing Export Policies:
Recognizing the importance of export-oriented growth, Egypt has implemented policies to
incentivize and support export-oriented industries. These policies include tax incentives, financial
support programs, and investment facilitation measures specifically designed to encourage
export-oriented investments and value-added activities. The aim is to diversify the export base,
enhance value chains, and promote higher value-added exports to maximize the economic
benefits derived from international trade.
Egypt's international policies aim to create an enabling environment for trade, attract foreign
direct investment, and boost export competitiveness. By pursuing trade liberalization, reducing
trade barriers, and implementing export promotion measures, Egypt seeks to strengthen its
economic integration with global markets and realize its potential as a regional trade and
investment hub.
China and Egypt trade
China and Egypt have a strong trading relationship, with significant bilateral trade between the
two countries. Here are some key points related to Chinese-Egyptian trade:

11. Total trade volume: According to the Ministry of Commerce of China, the total trade volume
between China and Egypt in 2021 was US$13.4 billion.
China's imports from Egypt: China's imports from Egypt mainly include crude oil, petrochemical
products, cotton, and agricultural products.
China's exports to Egypt: China's exports to Egypt mainly include mechanical and electrical
products, textiles, and home appliances.
Major projects: China has invested in several major infrastructure projects in Egypt, including the
construction of a new administrative capital city and a high-speed railway linking the cities of
Ain Sokhna and El Alamein.
Free trade agreement: China and Egypt signed a free trade agreement in 2019, which aims to
boost bilateral trade and investment by reducing tariffs and other trade barriers. Overall, Chinese-
Egyptian trade is an important aspect of the economic relationship between the two countries.
What benefits does international trade bring to Egypt:
International trade brings a range of benefits to Egypt, contributing to its economic growth,
development, and overall welfare. Here are some key benefits that international trade brings to
Egypt:
Economic Growth: International trade acts as a catalyst for economic growth by expanding
market opportunities for Egyptian businesses. By engaging in trade, Egypt can tap into larger
consumer bases and increase its export revenues. This influx of foreign exchange helps strengthen
the country's economy, boost investment, and create employment opportunities.
Diversification of the Economy: International trade allows Egypt to diversify its economic base
beyond traditional sectors. By exporting a variety of goods and services, Egypt can reduce its
dependence on a single industry, such as petroleum, and develop a more resilient and balanced
economy. This diversification enhances the country's ability to withstand external shocks and
promote sustainable development.
Access to Resources and Inputs: Through international trade, Egypt gains access to resources,
raw materials, and inputs that may be scarce or unavailable domestically. This enables the
country to support its industries, increase production capacity, and enhance competitiveness.
Access to foreign inputs also facilitates technological transfers, knowledge exchange, and
innovation.
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): International trade often goes hand in hand with foreign direct
investment. When Egypt demonstrates an open and conducive trade environment, it attracts
foreign investors seeking to establish operations, expand production, and access regional or
global markets. FDI brings in capital, expertise, technology, and managerial skills, stimulating
economic growth and industrial development.

12. Consumer Benefits: International trade introduces a wider range of goods and services into the
Egyptian market, providing consumers with greater choices and competitive prices. Importing
goods from other countries allows consumers to access products that may be of higher quality or
unique in nature. This increased consumer welfare leads to improved living standards and
satisfaction.
Knowledge and Skills Transfer: Engaging in international trade exposes Egyptian businesses to
global markets, best practices, and international standards. This exchange of knowledge and skills
can enhance the competitiveness and productivity of domestic industries. It encourages local
firms to adopt innovative technologies, improve production processes, and meet international
quality standards.
Cultural Exchange and Diplomatic Relations: International trade fosters cultural exchange and
strengthens diplomatic relations between Egypt and its trading partners. Trade interactions create
opportunities for people-to-people connections, fostering mutual understanding and cooperation.
Moreover, trade relationships often extend beyond economic ties, leading to collaborations in
areas such as education, tourism, and cultural exchanges.
In summary, international trade brings numerous benefits to Egypt, including economic growth,
diversification, access to resources, foreign investment, consumer welfare, knowledge transfer,
and cultural exchange. By actively participating in global trade, Egypt can harness these
advantages to drive sustainable development and improve the well-being of its population.
hurdles Egypt's foreign commercial development faces.
The development of international trade in Egypt faces several challenges and problems. Some of
the key issues include:
Trade Imbalances: Egypt has been grappling with persistent trade deficits, where its imports
significantly outweigh its exports. This trade imbalance puts pressure on the country's foreign
exchange reserves and contributes to a reliance on external financing. Addressing this imbalance
requires efforts to diversify and expand Egypt's export base while reducing dependency on
imported goods.
Non-Tariff Barriers: Non-tariff barriers, such as cumbersome customs procedures, technical
standards, and regulatory barriers, can impede the smooth flow of goods and services across
borders. These barriers create challenges for Egyptian exporters in accessing foreign markets and
may limit the competitiveness of domestic industries.
Infrastructure Limitations: Inadequate infrastructure, including transportation networks, ports,
and logistics systems, can hinder efficient trade operations. Insufficient infrastructure capacity
and connectivity pose challenges for timely and cost-effective movement of goods, impacting
Egypt's ability to compete in global markets.
Limited Product Diversification: Egypt's export base remains concentrated in a few sectors, such
as petroleum and textiles, which can make it vulnerable to fluctuations in global commodity
prices and market demands. Encouraging diversification into higher value-added industries and
promoting innovation and technological advancement can help mitigate risks and enhance
competitiveness.

13. Market Access and Trade Agreements: Enhancing market access to key trading partners and
navigating trade agreements effectively are essential for expanding Egypt's export opportunities.
Negotiating favorable terms in trade agreements, reducing trade barriers, and leveraging
preferential trade arrangements can help Egyptian exporters gain access to new markets and
increase competitiveness.
Informal Trade: Informal trade, which operates outside formal channels and lacks regulatory
oversight, remains a challenge in Egypt. The informal sector can hinder the collection of accurate
trade data, limit government revenue, and create unfair competition for formal businesses.
Implementing measures to formalize and regulate informal trade activities is crucial for
promoting transparency and enhancing the overall trade environment.
Financial and Banking Services: Access to affordable and reliable financial and banking services
is vital for facilitating international trade transactions. Ensuring smooth and efficient payment
mechanisms, reducing transaction costs, and improving access to trade finance can support
Egyptian businesses in engaging more effectively in international trade.
Addressing these challenges requires comprehensive strategies and reforms, including investment
in infrastructure development, streamlining trade procedures, promoting diversification,
strengthening institutions, and fostering an enabling business environment. Moreover, fostering
partnerships and cooperation with trading partners, regional economic blocs, and international
organizations can also contribute to overcoming these obstacles and promoting sustainable and
inclusive international trade development in Egypt.
How does the epidemic/ digitalization affect international trade？
The COVID-19 pandemic and the accelerating pace of digitalization have had significant impacts
on international trade, reshaping global supply chains, consumer behavior, and business
operations. In the context of Egypt, it is crucial to consider these factors when discussing the
development of international trade. Here are some suggestions for the development of
international trade in Egypt, taking into account the epidemic and digitalization:
1. Enhance digital infrastructure: Invest in robust digital infrastructure to support e-commerce,
online transactions, and digital connectivity. This includes improving internet penetration,
expanding mobile broadband coverage, and developing secure digital payment systems.
Strengthening digital infrastructure will enable Egyptian businesses to participate more
effectively in the global digital economy and reach international markets.
2. Foster e-commerce adoption: Promote the adoption of e-commerce among Egyptian
businesses, especially small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Provide training, resources, and
incentives to encourage SMEs to establish online platforms, develop digital marketing strategies,
and optimize logistics for online sales. E-commerce offers opportunities for Egyptian businesses
to reach global customers and diversify their export markets.
3. Facilitate cross-border e-commerce: Streamline customs procedures and trade regulations to
facilitate cross-border e-commerce transactions. Simplify documentation requirements,
harmonize regulations, and establish efficient customs clearance processes for e-commerce

14. shipments. Creating a favorable environment for cross-border e-commerce will enable Egyptian
businesses to expand their reach and benefit from the growing global e-commerce market.
4. Support digital skills development: Invest in programs and initiatives to enhance digital skills
among the Egyptian workforce. Offer training and educational programs to develop expertise in
digital technologies, data analytics, digital marketing, and e-commerce. Building a digitally
skilled workforce will enable Egyptian businesses to leverage digital tools and platforms
effectively and compete in the global digital economy.
5. Strengthen trade diversification: Encourage Egyptian businesses to diversify their export
markets beyond traditional trading partners. Explore opportunities to expand trade with emerging
economies and participate in regional trade blocs. Develop trade promotion strategies targeting
sectors with high growth potential, such as renewable energy, tourism, and technology-based
industries.
6. Promote sustainable trade practices: Embrace sustainable trade practices by promoting
environmentally friendly production methods, renewable energy adoption, and adherence to
international sustainability standards. Position Egypt as a reliable and sustainable trading partner,
attracting environmentally conscious consumers and businesses seeking sustainable supply
chains.
7. Foster international partnerships: Strengthen collaboration with international partners to
enhance trade opportunities. This includes forging trade agreements, establishing joint ventures,
and participating in trade missions and exhibitions. Engage with regional organizations, such as
the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), to capitalize on the growing intra-African
trade opportunities.
8. Support SMEs' export capabilities: Provide targeted support to SMEs to enhance their export
capabilities. This includes access to finance, export training programs, market intelligence, and
networking opportunities. SMEs are a vital component of Egypt's economy, and supporting their
international trade endeavors will contribute to economic growth and job creation.
By considering these suggestions, Egypt can navigate the challenges and harness the
opportunities presented by the epidemic and digitalization to further develop its international
trade, expand export markets, and foster economic resilience in an increasingly interconnected
world.
Tentative Conclusions
In conclusion, the trade relationship between China and Egypt is characterized by growing
bilateral trade volumes, diverse trade flows, and mutually beneficial cooperation. China's rapid
economic growth and demand for commodities have driven its imports from Egypt, particularly
in sectors such as oil, natural gas, and agriculture. In return, Egypt has capitalized on its resource-
rich status to meet China's demand while also exporting textiles, chemicals, and manufactured
goods. The development situation in Egypt, as of 2022, showcases a significant reliance on
international trade, with exports and imports contributing a considerable proportion to the

15. country's GDP. The petroleum industry, textiles and garments, chemicals, and agricultural
products play vital roles in Egypt's export sector, while imports span various industries such as
machinery, equipment, and consumer goods.
The COVID-19 pandemic and digitalization have profoundly influenced international trade
dynamics globally, including in Egypt. To foster the development of international trade in Egypt,
several suggestions can be considered. These include enhancing digital infrastructure, fostering e-
commerce adoption, facilitating cross-border e-commerce, supporting digital skills development,
strengthening trade diversification, promoting sustainable trade practices, fostering international
partnerships, and supporting SMEs' export capabilities.
By implementing these suggestions, Egypt can adapt to the changing trade landscape, leverage
digital technologies, and expand its export markets. This will contribute to economic growth, job
creation, and sustainable development in the country. Furthermore, strengthening partnerships
with countries like China and exploring emerging markets will enhance Egypt's trade
opportunities and position it as a reliable and competitive player in the global trade arena.
Overall, the trade relationship between China and Egypt, combined with strategic measures to
adapt to the impact of the epidemic and digitalization, can pave the way for sustainable economic
development and inclusive prosperity in both countries and the broader global economy.
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2. Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration, Egypt
3. the United Nations comtrade database on international trade
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