Egypt Strengthens Its Maritime Industry with First Tugboat Export to Europe
Egypt’s Suez Canal Authority (SCA) has taken a significant step toward positioning Egypt as a regional shipbuilding hub after signing a landmark export deal with Italy’s NERI Group for two high-powered tugboats.
The agreement, witnessed by SCA Chairman Osama Rabie, was signed between Misr Tugboats Factory, a subsidiary of the Suez Canal Company for Modern Boats, and the Italian maritime group. Each tugboat will deliver a bollard pull of 90 tonnes, showcasing Egypt’s growing industrial capabilities in the marine sector.
This contract marks Egypt’s first-ever export of locally manufactured tugboats, reflecting the SCA’s broader strategy to localize shipbuilding and bring Egyptian maritime expertise to international markets. Chairman Rabie described the agreement as a vote of confidence in Egyptian engineering, emphasizing the success of the authority’s efforts to revitalize the national shipyard industry. “This step opens new horizons for Egyptian-made vessels to compete globally,” he stated.
The tugboats will be built based on the Rastar 3200-W design, known for its efficiency, stability, and high-performance towing in port operations. Delivery to the NERI Group is expected in the first quarter of next year.
The deal also paves the way for deeper industrial cooperation between Egypt and Italy, positioning the SCA’s manufacturing subsidiaries as key players in the international shipbuilding market. This milestone not only strengthens Egypt’s “Made in Egypt” brand but also aligns with the national vision to expand public-private partnerships and enhance the country’s presence in global maritime trade.
About Karimar Shipping
Karimar Shipping is a leading maritime services provider in Egypt, offering comprehensive solutions for shipping, port agency, logistics, and vessel operations. We combine local expertise with global standards to support shipping companies, port authorities, and logistics operators in navigating the complexities of maritime trade.
Our work connects industry developments, such as the Suez Canal’s new export achievements, with practical solutions to ensure efficiency, safety, and reliability across Egypt’s ports and waterways.
