Egypt is pushing ahead with plans to establish a pilot natural silk production centre in New Valley governorate, as part of a broader national strategy to localise the silk industry and boost job creation. Local Development Minister Manal Awad met on Thursday with New Valley Governor Mohamed Al-Zamlout and officials from the Agriculture Ministry and affiliated agencies to review the executive plan for the project, which is being implemented in line with directives from the prime minister. The centre is planned to be built on a 250-feddan site in the city of Kharga and will serve as a model for potential replication in other governorates, as per a statement from the Egyptian Cabinet. The plan outlines a phased timeline for development and includes technical and financial feasibility studies. It covers infrastructure components such as agricultural mechanisation, irrigation wells, energy stations, rearing facilities, cocoon collection units, and silk production lines. "This project marks the foundation for Egypt's national silk localisation initiative and reflects the president's keen interest in achieving self-sufficiency in this promising industry while creating new jobs," Minister Awad said. Governor Al-Zamlout pledged full local support, including land allocation, access to water and electricity, and streamlined administrative procedures. Officials agreed to dispatch a joint delegation to inspect the proposed site next week, with a final proposal to be submitted to the prime minister by the end of July. If approved, implementation would begin shortly after. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English
