ChatGPT said: Egypt's Minister of Petroleum Karim Badawi witnessed on Saturday the kick-off of the soda ash and derivatives (sodium carbonate) production project, a key initiative of the Egyptian Petrochemicals Holding Company (ECHEM). According to Minister Badawi, the first phase will have a production capacity of around 600,000 tons annually and will contribute to the optimal use of mineral resources, particularly limestone, the main input for soda ash production. Badawi highlighted the strategic importance of the project, saying it adds significant value to the Egyptian economy by localising production of materials used in sectors such as glass and detergents, reducing imports, and lowering the import bill. He emphasised that the project receives full support and continuous oversight from President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English
