Maren Diale-Schellschmidt, Chief Executive Officer of the German-Arab Chamber of Industry and Commerce.
Speaking about the official opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), Diale-Schellschmidt described it as “a great milestone, not only in cultural and international relations but also as a catalyst for tourism.” She added, “I believe the GEM will enhance both the quality and quantity of tours to Egypt. I’m sure many German tourists will come to visit this incredible new landmark.”
Regarding the role of the Chamber in promoting economic relations, she explained that the AHK supports both German companies entering the Egyptian market and Egyptian companies seeking to expand into Germany.
“We provide practical services, organise business delegations, B2B meetings, and conferences. We also assist Egyptian companies to attend trade fairs in Germany and support vocational training programmes for both sides,” she said.
Diale-Schellschmidt estimated that the current volume of German investments in Egypt amounts to around €2 billion, noting that investments span a wide range of sectors. “German companies are active in energy, infrastructure, production, agriculture, consumer goods, and, of course, tourism,” she said, adding that the diversity of these investments shows "the strength and stability of the Egyptian market."
In response to a question about the Chamber's plans for the future, Diale-Schellschmidt emphasized AHK’s role in facilitating new opportunities.
“We aim to grow trade and investment in both directions. While companies make their own decisions, we help pave the way and provide guidance for more investment in Egypt,” she noted.
Diale-Schellschmidt also pointed out that trade between Egypt and Germany reached about €5.5 billion last year, with imports from Germany primarily consisting of machinery, technology, and infrastructure equipment.
“Egypt exports agricultural and textile products to Germany, but increasingly also industrial goods produced here for the German market,” she explained.
Commenting on the Egyptian economy, she said she was optimistic about its recovery and progress.
“I came to Egypt a year ago, and I’ve witnessed positive developments—government incentives, better infrastructure, and improved administrative measures are making Egypt more competitive both locally and internationally,” she said.
As for the Chamber’s role in resolving challenges facing German investors, Diale-Schellschmidt stressed that the AHK works closely with Egyptian authorities and the German embassy to ensure smooth operations.
“Our main goal is to support companies from the start, guide them through the system, and avoid problems before they arise.
But if issues do occur, we work hand in hand with our partners here in Egypt to resolve them,” she affirmed.
Diale-Schellschmidt concluded by expressing confidence in the future of German-Egyptian cooperation, noting growing optimism among German businesses. “From what we see, interest in Egypt is high.
The Mediterranean region is becoming increasingly important for supply chain diversification, and Egypt stands out for its value and strategic location.
The future looks bright for our partnership,” she said.
Short link: