Industry is cornerstone of economic development, national security: Minister

Daily News Egypt

13-05-2025

Mohamed Salah El-Din Mostafa, Minister of State for Military Production, emphasized that industry is a foundational pillar of both comprehensive economic development and national security. He cited its role in generating foreign currency, creating added value, and delivering tangible benefits to citizens.
His remarks came during a session with the House of Representatives' industry committee, chaired by MP Mohamed Mostafa El-Sallab. The meeting was also attended by Emile Helmy Elias, Vice Chairperson of the National Organization for Military Production, several ministry officials, and members of Parliament, including MP Shehata Abou Zeid (deputy chair), MP Sherine Alish (committee's secretary), and other committee members.
Minister Salah underlined the Ministry's dual role: as the primary supplier of weapons, ammunition, and defense equipment to the Egyptian Armed Forces, and as a contributor to national economic development. He explained that the Ministry leverages the surplus production capacity of its affiliated companies to supply a wide range of high-quality, competitively priced civilian products. These efforts support the domestic market and align with broader national development goals.
The Minister outlined the Ministry's comprehensive structure, which operates across five main pillars: industrial production, research and development, IT systems, construction, and training. The Ministry supervises a diverse portfolio of entities, including manufacturing firms, a maintenance company, an IT solutions provider, a scientific and technological excellence center, a construction company, and a vocational training sector.
To strengthen operational efficiency, Salah said a unified procurement sector has been established to ensure effective governance in dealings with suppliers. A centralized supplier database now consolidates company requirements, standardizes material specifications in line with global benchmarks, and streamlines the procurement process. This system allows for strategic raw material purchasing based on international market trends, enhances competitiveness, and ensures year-round capacity for producing vital goods.
He also highlighted the advanced technological capabilities within Military Production companies. These include metal forming and machining tools, heat treatment furnaces, casting and painting lines, and 258 production lines equipped with 12,000 machines—613 of which are CNC. The facilities employ a highly trained workforce proficient in modern manufacturing techniques. Additionally, the Ministry operates 14 accredited laboratories equipped with 377 precision instruments and testing devices.
Salah reviewed recent accomplishments in both military and civilian sectors. In the defense field, the Ministry continues to develop sophisticated products such as armored steel, the 'Raad 200' rocket launcher, and the 'Sina 200' armored vehicle, which enhance Egypt's defense capabilities and national security.
On the civilian side, the Ministry has expanded its participation in key national and strategic initiatives, particularly in green transportation, waste management, and environmental protection. Notably, it has delivered 110 electric buses for public transport in Cairo and Alexandria, and signed an agreement for 100 electric BRT buses with the Arab Union for Land Transport and Tourism. It is also producing the locally developed 'Qute' micro vehicle, with ongoing efforts to increase the localization of its components.
In support of environmental sustainability, Salah revealed that a model facility has been established to produce eco-friendly cardboard packaging using banana tree waste fibers. Located within one of the Ministry's factories, this project exemplifies innovation in utilizing agricultural waste to support green industry objectives.
These projects, he noted, are implemented through strategic public-private partnerships that aim to maximize national capabilities, increase production, and boost the Egyptian economy.
The Minister also reviewed the Ministry's future roadmap, highlighting the availability of both technological infrastructure and skilled human resources needed to meet its strategic objectives. He stressed that recent progress in adapting military industries to market needs and localizing advanced technologies would not have been possible without the steadfast support of Egypt's political leadership.
This support, he said, enables the Ministry of Military Production to play an effective role in both defense and development while overcoming internal and external challenges.
Salah also emphasized the importance of fostering close collaboration between the executive and legislative branches. He expressed his belief that strong coordination with Parliament—particularly with the industry committee—was essential for successfully implementing the state's plans for comprehensive economic reform and development.
In response, Mohamed Mostafa El-Sallab, chair of the House's industry committee, praised the Ministry of Military Production as a fundamental pillar of Egypt's industrial strength. He noted that the Ministry not only supports the Armed Forces with advanced defense products but also helps ease the financial burden on citizens by producing competitively priced, high-quality civilian goods.
El-Sallab applauded the Ministry's serious and ongoing efforts to localize modern manufacturing technologies and support innovation in both military and civil sectors. He commended recent breakthroughs such as the development of armored vehicles and systems that reinforce national security, while also addressing local industrial needs.
He also praised the Ministry's contributions to large-scale national development initiatives, including infrastructure and environmental projects, and its active role in presidential initiatives like Decent Life, which aims to improve living standards in rural communities.
El-Sallab concluded by affirming that despite global challenges affecting supply chains and economies worldwide, Egypt's Ministry of Military Production has maintained its momentum. He lauded its ability to deliver consistent progress and significant achievements in both its defense mandate and its expanding civilian role, calling it a model for national industrial excellence.