Egypt and Romania are moving to deepen their economic partnership, with both sides targeting an increase in bilateral trade to $2 billion, up from a projected $1.5 billion by the end of 2025, according to discussions hosted by the Egyptian Businessmen’s Association (EBA).
The talks took place during a meeting between the EBA and Romanian Ambassador Olivia Toderean, marking 120 years of diplomatic relations and coinciding with Romania’s selection as Guest of Honor at the 2026 Cairo International Book Fair. Egyptian exports currently account for around $500 million of bilateral trade, led by textiles, petroleum products, and agricultural goods.
Both sides identified green hydrogen, energy, tourism, and technology as priority growth sectors, noting the presence of Romanian gas companies already operating in Egypt. To support tourism and business exchange, the Joint Business Council is working on improving connectivity, including plans for a direct weekly flight between Hurghada and Bucharest.
Romania also encouraged greater Egyptian investment in food industries, real estate, and education, while reaffirming support for Egyptian students enrolled at Romanian universities. On the policy front, the EBA highlighted the need for coordinated engagement to address the impact of the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), which could pose challenges for Egyptian exports.
Both sides stressed that closer cooperation through the Joint Business Council—spanning trade, investment, education, and cultural exchange—will be critical to translating the long-standing diplomatic relationship into sustained economic growth and achieving the $2 billion trade objective.
