Egypt's Minister of Industry, Khaled Hashem, has inaugurated a new production line at Unilever Mashreq's personal care factory in 6th of October City. The new line, the factory's 13th, is expected to increase the plant's annual production capacity by 20%. The output from this new line will be allocated entirely to export markets. This expansion marks 20 years of operations at the facility.
Minister Hashem emphasized that Unilever has become a significant partner in Egypt's industrial sector. The company operates three factories in Egypt and exports its products to more than 30 countries. He noted that the new expansion exemplifies a multinational company using Egypt as a production base and a gateway to regional and international markets.
The minister highlighted that the expansion aligns with the Ministry of Industry's priorities, which include deepening local manufacturing, increasing exports, improving productivity, and strengthening the ability of Egyptian industry to integrate into global supply chains. Partnerships with the private sector are crucial to achieving Egypt's industrial and economic development objectives.
The Mashreq personal care plant currently allocates around 65% of its production capacity to export markets, with its products reaching more than 30 countries. Approximately 80% of the materials used in manufacturing are sourced locally, strengthening the link between Unilever's export activity and the domestic supply chain.
The factory, which covers 22,000 sqm, including 13,000 sqm of built-up area, manufactures a range of Unilever products across personal care, beauty, and home care categories. Minister Hashem also highlighted Unilever's sustainability initiatives, including water recycling programmes and the use of recycled plastic in packaging.
During the visit, Minister Hashem inspected the new production line and the shampoo production line, reviewing the technologies used to maintain quality standards and support the company's domestic and export operations. The company currently ranks first among exporters of personal care products from Egypt, according to the ministry.
Minister Hashem stressed the importance of competition among regional subsidiaries of multinational companies to attract global investment to their respective markets. The Egyptian government is working to support investors in developing feasibility studies based on market data and economic indicators, while removing obstacles and improving the business environment.
Key points
- The new production line increases the plant's annual capacity by 20%, with output allocated entirely to export markets.
- Unilever operates three factories in Egypt and exports products to over 30 countries.
- The factory allocates 65% of its production capacity to export markets, with 80% of materials sourced locally.
