Waleid Gamal El-Din, Chairperson of the General Authority for the Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZONE), emphasized the zone's growing role as a global investment destination during a roundtable held as part of the Egypt–US Economic Forum in Cairo. The event aimed to enhance trade and investment cooperation between Egypt and the United States. Titled "The Economic Zone as an Investment Destination," the roundtable was moderated by Marwan El Sammak, board member of the American Chamber of Commerce, and included key contributions from Samir Mubarak, CEO of NAFAZ International, alongside US business leaders and SCZONE executives. In his remarks, Gamal El-Din outlined SCZONE's integrated development model, which links industrial zones to key ports on the Red Sea and Mediterranean. This strategic connectivity, combined with Egypt's extensive network of free trade agreements, positions the zone as a gateway for global trade and a fully integrated hub for industry and logistics. "SCZONE offers a real solution for global investors seeking stability, opportunity, and access to international markets amid today's economic and geopolitical headwinds," Gamal El-Din said. He highlighted the zone's competitive advantages, including a strategic location at the crossroads of major trade routes, abundant and accessible energy resources, and a cost-effective, skilled labor force supported by specialized training centers. The Chairperson also underscored SCZONE's commitment to deepening its engagement with American investors. He pointed to high-potential sectors such as pharmaceuticals and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), advanced technology industries including data centers and electronics manufacturing, and a wide range of logistics and service-based opportunities that support global supply chains. During an interactive Q&A session, Gamal El-Din addressed investor inquiries regarding the structure and specialization of the zone's industrial areas. He explained that each zone is tailored to specific industries, guided by detailed technical, marketing, and feasibility studies. This approach has helped identify 21 priority sectors across industrial, logistical, and service domains. He further explained that SCZONE's ports and industrial zones are strategically aligned to support targeted export markets, offering investors customized solutions based on their sector and regional objectives. In response to questions on workforce development, Gamal El-Din noted the presence of multiple training centers and technical academies offering globally benchmarked curricula. He also mentioned ongoing efforts to establish additional facilities—particularly in labor-intensive areas like Qantara West—where demand for skilled workers is expected to grow significantly. "By combining strategic infrastructure with tailored workforce development and sector-focused planning, SCZONE is building an environment where international businesses can thrive," Gamal El-Din concluded.
