Egypt targets expansion of national merchant fleet to 40 vessels by 2030

Egypt has announced plans to expand and modernise its national merchant fleet to 40 vessels by 2030, as part of a broader strategy to strengthen maritime transport and position the country as a regional logistics hub, reports Sada El-Balad, a partner of TV BRICS.

The announcement was made during a general assembly meeting of a state-affiliated maritime operator, chaired by Minister of Transport Kamel El-Wazir. Officials reviewed financial and operational results for 2025, which showed resilient performance.

Cargo volumes increased, reaching approximately 5.46 million tonnes in 2025, up from 4.97 million tonnes the previous year. As a result, the share of shipments serving private sector clients – both domestic and international – rose significantly in recent years, reflecting efforts to enhance competitiveness and resilience.

The fleet modernisation programme includes the scheduled delivery of four new vessels between 2026 and 2028, contributing to the renewal of more than half of the existing fleet within five years. Total investment in fleet development has reached approximately US$237 million, financed through internal resources.

In parallel, the maritime sector is undergoing technological and environmental upgrades. Digital systems have been introduced to monitor vessel performance and manage maintenance remotely, while measures to improve energy efficiency have reduced fuel consumption and emissions by up to 10 per cent. Egyptian vessels have also complied with international environmental standards, including emissions regulations, strengthening their access to global shipping routes.

The long-term strategy is built around three pillars: developing port infrastructure, expanding the merchant fleet and deepening cooperation with international shipping operators. By 2030, the expanded fleet is expected to carry up to 30 million tonnes of cargo annually, a significant increase from current capacity.

Officials emphasised that the next phase will prioritise green maritime transport, including the adoption of cleaner fuels and advanced technologies to improve energy efficiency. Investment in workforce training and technical expertise is also expected to play a central role in enhancing the sector’s global competitiveness.