The Egyptian government is launching a bold initiative to rejuvenate the country’s marble and granite production industry, aiming to establish itself as a top exporter in the Middle East. At the heart of this vision is the transformation of Schuq al-Thuban, a region renowned for its extensive marble quarrying activities, into a modern hub for production and logistics.
A Strategic Focus on Schuq al-Thuban
Mohamed Aref, President of the Egyptian-Africa Association for Marble and Granite, has underscored the critical importance of this project. According to Aref, the government’s efforts are focused on creating state-of-the-art logistics facilities in Schuq al-Thuban, enabling the efficient transportation and export of marble and granite.
“The development and improvement of the Schuq al-Thuban area is expected to yield enormous positive results,” Aref noted, emphasizing the potential economic and strategic impact on both regional and national levels. The centerpiece of the initiative is the establishment of a comprehensive logistics area, including shipping and unloading facilities. This infrastructure is designed to streamline operations, reduce shipping times, and lower costs, making Egyptian marble and granite more competitive in international markets.
A Hub for Global Trade
For years, Schuq al-Thuban has been a major source of marble and granite, supplying over 118 countries. The high-quality stone extracted from the region’s mountains has made its way to markets worldwide, but outdated infrastructure has often limited growth. The new logistics zone is expected to address these challenges, providing the foundation for sustained growth and attracting both domestic and international investment.
This development is also a key step toward achieving Egypt’s ambitious export target of $1 billion annually. With streamlined shipping processes and enhanced operational capacity, Schuq al-Thuban is poised to become a global leader in marble and granite trade.
Overcoming Historical Challenges
Despite its rich resources, Egypt’s marble and granite sector has faced years of underinvestment and neglect. However, the government’s renewed focus on the industry reflects a shift in priorities, recognizing its untapped potential to drive economic growth.
The Schuq al-Thuban project is about more than just marble and granite. It aims to foster a ripple effect, stimulating related industries such as transportation and logistics while creating jobs and boosting local economies. The project also leverages Egypt’s geographic advantages, using its strategic location to strengthen the country’s position in global trade networks.
A Vision for the Future
The transformation of Schuq al-Thuban represents a forward-thinking approach to industrial development. By investing in infrastructure and modernizing operations, Egypt is laying the groundwork for long-term success in the marble and granite sector.
Mohamed Aref’s vision, supported by the government’s initiatives, is a blueprint for turning past challenges into opportunities. With robust infrastructure, efficient logistics, and a strategic focus on international markets, Egypt is positioning itself as a powerhouse in the global marble and granite industry.
As Schuq al-Thuban evolves into a modern production and logistics hub, the economic benefits are expected to extend well beyond the industry itself, marking a new chapter in Egypt’s industrial and economic growth.
