The Egyptian clothing industry has experienced a remarkable turnaround in recent years, with local products now dominating the market. According to Mohamed Abd El-Salam, head of the Ready-Made Clothing Industry Chamber, Egyptian products currently account for around 90% of the local market, while imported products make up the remaining 10%. This represents a significant shift from just 6-7 years ago, when local and imported products were evenly split at 50% each.
This growth can be attributed to the supportive climate provided by the government and the Ministry of Industry, which has enabled manufacturers to develop their production capabilities and improve the quality of Egyptian products. The industry has also become more competitive, with Egyptian products now able to keep pace with global fashion trends. As a result, the industry has attracted new investments, both from Egyptian and foreign investors.
The growth of the industry has also been reflected in the country's export figures. According to Abd El-Salam, exports of ready-made clothing and textiles reached $3.4 billion in 2025. In the first nine months of 2026, exports increased by 22-25%, and Abd El-Salam expects the sector to reach $4 billion in exports by the end of the year. This growth has been driven by the industry's ability to produce high-quality products that meet international standards.
Egypt's clothing industry has a number of advantages that make it well-suited for growth. The country has a complete production chain, from cotton cultivation to garment manufacturing, which allows for greater control over the production process and enables the industry to maximize its value-added potential. This integrated approach also makes the industry more competitive and better equipped to export products to international markets.
The growth of the industry has also been driven by the efforts of Egyptian manufacturers over the past 5-7 years. Abd El-Salam praised the efforts of these manufacturers, saying that their hard work and dedication have paid off and opened up new opportunities for the industry in both local and international markets. The industry's growth has also been recognized internationally, with Egypt hosting a number of major fashion events.
One such event is the 82nd edition of the Cairo Fashion & Tex exhibition, which took place from October 2-4. The exhibition featured over 850 brands and attracted more than 1000 buyers and visitors from 18 countries. The event was held in conjunction with the Cairo Mother and La Pyjama exhibitions, and provided a platform for Egyptian manufacturers to showcase their products and connect with international buyers.
Looking ahead, the Egyptian clothing industry is expected to continue growing, driven by its competitive advantages and the supportive business environment. With its complete production chain and highly skilled workforce, the industry is well-placed to capitalize on new opportunities and increase its share of the global market.
Key points
- Egyptian clothing industry exports are expected to reach $4 billion by the end of 2026.
- Local products now account for 90% of the Egyptian clothing market.
- The industry has attracted new investments from Egyptian and foreign investors.
