The Egyptian Businessmen’s Association (EBA) hosted the Romanian Ambassador Olivia Toderean to enhance economic ties, celebrating 120 years of diplomatic relations and coinciding with Romania’s role as the Guest of Honor at the 2026 Cairo International Book Fair.
Key trade figures and goals:
Current trade: The EBA projects bilateral trade to reach $1.5 billion by the end of the year, with Egyptian exports accounting for $500 million (textiles, petroleum, agriculture).
Target goal: Romania aims to increase the trade volume further to $2 billion.
Areas of focus and initiatives:
Growth sectors: Promising opportunities were highlighted in green hydrogen, tourism, technology, and energy(where Romanian gas companies are already active in Egypt).
Connectivity: The Joint Business Council is working to establish direct flight routes, including a weekly flight linking Hurghada with Bucharest, to boost tourism.
Investment focus: Romania encourages Egyptian investment in food industries, real estate, and education, while supporting Egyptian youth studying in Romanian universities.
Challenges and strategy
The EBA called for serious engagement to address the challenge posed by the European Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) tax, which threatens Egyptian exports.
Both sides stressed the role of the Joint Business Council in promoting trade, investment, education, and cultural exchange to leverage the historical partnership and reach the $2 billion strategic target.
