Egypt is strengthening its roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) shipping operations to enhance export efficiency, particularly for perishable agricultural goods bound for European markets. In pursuit of this goal, Vice Prime Minister for Industrial Development, Minister of Industry and Transport Kamel Al-Wazir, met with Minister of Agriculture Alaa Farouk to discuss maximizing the benefits of the Ro-Ro shipping line between Damietta and Italy's Trieste. The meeting focused on optimizing the transport of refrigerated and dry cargo to support the country's growing export sector. Officials reviewed the performance of the Ro-Ro shipping line since its launch, including the number of trips conducted, cargo volumes, and key export categories. Discussions also covered proposals and future plans presented by Pan Marine, the line's operator, to help Egyptian exporters fully capitalize on the route and expand their reach into European markets. The meeting emphasized the strategic advantages of the Ro-Ro shipping line, particularly the reciprocity principle in port fees and operational incentives at both ports. Notably, port fees have been slashed from $26,050 to $3,250 per voyage—an 88% reduction—to encourage greater utilization. Additionally, a 35,000-square-meter area has been designated for the project, complete with full-service connections. Further facilitating operations, the Damietta Port Authority has issued a government guarantee letter to Egyptian Customs, while the Ministry of Finance has provided an X-ray scanner for security and efficiency. Egyptian and Italian customs will also be linked through enhanced digital applications at Damietta Port, allowing for seamless exchange of official documents, such as health and food safety certificates. To ensure wider adoption of the Ro-Ro shipping line, Al-Wazir called on the Federation of Chambers of Commerce to engage export and import divisions across Egypt to raise awareness about its benefits. Coordination with major exporters was also encouraged to fully leverage the route for expanded trade between Egypt, Italy, and broader European markets. The discussion highlighted the importance of driver training, particularly through the Port Training Institute's advanced simulators, to prepare Egyptian truck drivers for safe and efficient transport to Italy. Collaboration among key stakeholders—including the Federation of Egyptian Industries, the Federation of Chambers of Commerce, export council heads, and exporters—was also emphasized as essential for maximizing the Ro-Ro line's impact. This shipping route serves as a green corridor between Egypt and Italy, reducing shipping costs and transit time while reinforcing Egypt's role as a key logistics hub between Europe and Africa. It also fosters mutual trade opportunities, boosts exports of industrial and agricultural products, and generates employment across the transport and shipping sectors, particularly for Egyptian truck drivers and administrative staff. By expanding Ro-Ro shipping operations, Egypt is taking a major step toward strengthening its export sector, ensuring faster, more cost-effective access to European markets while positioning itself as a leader in regional trade and logistics.
