Egypt to Facilitate Entry of American Cars, Dairy Products to Boost Trade Exchange

Egypt is working to facilitate the entry of American cars and dairy products into its market, a move that could contribute to increasing trade between the world's largest economy and the North African country with the largest number of consumers.

Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly said during the Egyptian-American Business Forum held in Cairo on Sunday and Monday that "there is growing interest from American auto manufacturers in entering the Egyptian market. This month, a decree was issued waiving the requirements for the entry of American-made cars into Egypt, and the World Trade Organization has been provided with the new regulations. Therefore, our market is now open to vehicles manufactured in the United States."

On  his part, Minister of Industry and Transport Kamel El-Wazir announced that "the problems of importing American-made cars have been resolved, and Egypt is ready to receive them starting today. We have also removed all restrictions on the entry of American auto parts into our market, in addition to providing all the necessary procedures to begin manufacturing American cars locally in the coming period."

The Prime Minister also noted another "unprecedented" decision, which he described as permanently exempting American dairy products and their derivatives from halal certification requirements when exported to Egypt. This will further support the presence of American dairy companies in Egypt.

He added, "Until the end of 2025, American dairy products can be exported to Egypt without requiring halal certification or paying related fees." While the tariffs will start in 2026 at approximately $1,500 per container.

Madbouly told more than 150 American company officials attending the business forum that his country "has reached the final stage of a customs agreement with the United States." He noted that "there are more than 1,800 American companies operating in Egypt, with cumulative investments exceeding $47 billion over the past two decades."

In early April, Trump imposed tariffs on 185 countries, with a maximum of 50% and a minimum of 10%, covering approximately 125 countries. The tariffs affected Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Morocco at 10%.