Egypt is expanding its smart lighting and renewable energy industry as the government pushes to increase local manufacturing and strengthen exports. The latest plans were discussed during a meeting between Minister of Industry Khaled Hashem and representatives of GILA Al Tawakol Electric. The talks focused on new investments, technology transfer, and clean energy projects that support the country’s industrial growth.
The meeting included GILA Al Tawakol Electric Chairperson Sherif Abdel Fattah, senior ministry officials, and advisers responsible for strategic and energy affairs. They reviewed the company’s expansion plans and discussed ways to increase local production while improving Egypt’s position in regional and global markets.
A key topic was Egypt’s first smart lighting manufacturing facility. The project is being developed through a partnership between GILA Al Tawakol Electric and Signify, a global leader in lighting technology. The investment is valued at $30 million and is expected to strengthen Egypt’s manufacturing sector while creating new export opportunities.
The factory will begin production during the fourth quarter of this year. It will initially use 40% locally made components. The company plans to increase local content to 80% as production expands. This move is expected to reduce dependence on imported materials while supporting Egyptian suppliers and manufacturers.
Around 60% of the factory’s output will be exported to markets across Africa and Europe. The project is also expected to create nearly 1,000 direct and indirect jobs. Officials believe the investment will help increase industrial production while supporting economic growth and employment.
Minister Hashem said the government fully supports industrial projects that bring advanced technology to Egypt. He explained that expanding local manufacturing helps create added value, improves industrial capacity, and strengthens the national economy. He added that technology transfer remains one of the ministry’s main priorities as Egypt works to modernize its industries.
The minister also said renewable energy has become an economic necessity for manufacturers. Using clean energy can lower operating costs, improve energy efficiency, and increase competitiveness. He noted that these steps also support Egypt’s long-term goal of building a greener and more sustainable economy.
Hashem encouraged the company to increase local content across its full range of products. He also stressed the need to strengthen supply chains and maintain international quality standards. He said close cooperation with the Egyptian Organization for Standardization and Quality will help Egyptian products compete more successfully in overseas markets.
During the meeting, the minister highlighted the Ministry of Industry’s Shams El Senaa, or Industry Solar Initiative. The programme aims to install rooftop solar systems with a combined capacity of 1,000 megawatts across 7,000 factories during its first phase. Officials expect the initiative to reduce electricity costs, increase clean energy use, and improve the competitiveness of Egypt’s industrial sector.
Sherif Abdel Fattah said GILA Al Tawakol Electric has operated in Egypt for more than 50 years. The company has manufacturing facilities in 10th of Ramadan City and Obour City. He said the company produces a wide range of industrial products, including medium- and low-voltage switchboards, metal products, cable trays, cladding systems, and advanced lighting solutions.
He added that the company also provides integrated energy efficiency services and digital transformation solutions for industrial customers. Abdel Fattah said the expansion project reflects the company’s commitment to supporting Egypt’s industrial development while increasing exports and creating more jobs.
The government believes stronger partnerships between local companies and international technology leaders will help Egypt become a regional manufacturing hub. Officials expect investments in Smart Lighting Production and renewable energy to improve industrial performance, attract new investment, and support sustainable economic growth in the years ahead.
