Egypt announced the commencement of its first entirely locally manufactured router at the Egyptian Silicon Industries Company (SICO) factory, located in the Assiut Governorate. This initiative is spearheaded by e& Egypt, marking a pivotal point in the nation’s strategy to enhance local manufacturing capabilities and establish a footprint in international technology markets.
The new router, crafted with advanced 5G technology, is a pioneering product locally produced by an Egyptian enterprise. It is a testament to the burgeoning capabilities of Egypt’s technology and telecommunications sector. Developed in partnership with the Chinese networking device specialist ToZed, the router signifies a blend of international expertise and local innovation. This collaboration underscores Egypt’s potential to meet rigorous international quality standards, positioning it as a promising competitor in the global technology arena.
As highlighted by the National Telecom Regulatory Authority (NTRA), the agreement inked in October with telecom giants Orange Egypt, Vodafone Egypt, and e& Egypt to provide fifth-generation mobile services, lays a foundational infrastructure to support such innovations. This strategic alliance is expected to accelerate Egypt’s transition into a key regional technology and digital manufacturing hub.
Ahmed Yehia, CEO of e& Egypt’s Financial Technology and Digital Applications, conveyed the broader vision, stating, “This milestone reflects our ambitious vision to bolster local industry in Egypt, aligning with the government’s strategy to localize electronics manufacturing. We are committed to harnessing local talent and forming strategic partnerships with global leaders to deliver top-tier products.”
Mohamed Salem, Chairman of SICO, emphasized the economic implications, noting, “Our ongoing efforts to produce advanced devices locally aim to reduce dependencies on imports and conserve foreign currency, thereby enhancing the global competitiveness of Egyptian products.”
Industry experts believe that this development not only positions Egypt as a significant player in the Middle East’s technological landscape but also supports the nation’s economic aspirations. According to data from the International Data Corporation, the global 5G market is projected to reach $668 billion by 2026, offering substantial export opportunities for Egyptian-made technology products.
The successful rollout of locally manufactured 5G routers signifies a promising avenue for economic growth and technological innovation in Egypt. It reflects a broader commitment to sustainable economic development and technological advancement, contributing to the nation’s vision of becoming a digital and manufacturing powerhouse in the region.
