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€150 Million Investment Positions Bel Egypt as a Key Industrial and Export Hub

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Bel Egypt is strengthening Egypt’s position as a regional industrial and export hub through long term investment, strong local sourcing and a growing export footprint. Over the past 28 years, Bel Group has invested close to €150 million (about $176 million) in Egypt to expand production capacity, modernize operations and support social and environmental initiatives. Today, the country plays a central role in the Group’s regional and global strategy, with most of its output serving international markets.

Bel recently opened its doors to the media at its manufacturing site in 10th of Ramadan City, highlighting the scale and impact of its operations in Egypt. The visit was attended by senior executives including Garo Matossian, Cluster General Manager for Bel Middle East and Northeast Africa, Hany Arram, Regional Director for Bel Egypt and Northeast Africa and Khaled Attia, Plant Director of Bel Egypt.

On this occasion, Garo Matossian, Cluster General Manager for Bel Middle East, stated: “Bel Egypt is a cornerstone of Bel Group’s regional ambition. It brings together industrial excellence, innovation, and impact, fully aligned with our mission-led model. Through sustained investments and strong local partnerships, Bel Egypt plays a decisive role in supporting regional markets while contributing to Egypt’s economic development and to the transformation of food systems toward greater sustainability.”

The company’s presence in Egypt goes beyond production. It reflects a long term commitment to industrial growth, job creation, exports and sustainable food systems. With a fully Egyptian workforce and deep links to local suppliers, Bel Egypt has become an example of how multinational investment can support national economic development.

Building a Strong Industrial and Export Platform

Bel’s factory in 10th of Ramadan City covers more than 28,720 square meters and is one of the Group’s most important production sites in the region. The plant is equipped with 25 cheese production lines and six packaging machines, supported by digital systems and strict food safety standards. These investments ensure efficiency, consistent quality and reliable supply for both local and international markets.

As part of its industrial roadmap, Bel has recently added a new production line that is now fully operational. This expansion strengthens Egypt’s role as a regional export base. Today, around 80 percent of Bel Egypt’s total production is exported to 19 countries across the Middle East, Africa and beyond. Over the past 15 years, these exports have generated more than €1.4 billion (about $1.6 billion) in value.

The factory produces six of Bel’s core brands, including The Laughing Cow®, Kiri® Triangles, Regal Picon®, Picon®, Les Enfants® and Nouvelle Vache®. All products follow the Group’s Positive Nutrition approach, which focuses on portion control, balanced nutrition and reducing food waste. This model also fits modern consumption habits, especially for families looking for convenient and affordable food options.

Bel also adapts its products to meet local tastes and nutritional needs in different markets. In countries where micronutrient deficiencies are common, selected recipes are enriched with iron, zinc, iodine and vitamins such as A or D. This approach supports public health goals in parts of the Middle East, Africa and Asia, while keeping products accessible to consumers.

Local sourcing is another key part of Bel Egypt’s strategy. The company sources 90 percent of its packaging materials from Egyptian suppliers, helping to support local industry and reduce reliance on imports. Combined with a 100 percent Egyptian workforce, this strengthens the company’s local footprint and economic impact.

Jobs, Sustainability and Community Impact

Bel Egypt currently employs more than 1,500 people. The company promotes an inclusive work environment based on equal opportunity, diversity and skills development. This focus on people extends beyond the factory through several community programs designed to support health, financial inclusion and employment.

One of these initiatives is the Enaya healthcare program, which provides medical support to retail partners and their families. Bel also works with Fawry to offer digital financial solutions to small shop owners, helping them manage payments and grow their businesses. In partnership with the Egyptian Food Bank, Bel supports children’s health by supplying fortified products to hospitals and school feeding programs.

The company also collaborates with the Food and Agriculture Organization to promote nutritional awareness and address malnutrition. Through the Brighter Future program, implemented with SamuSocial International, Bel supports underprivileged youth by improving their employability and creating sustainable job opportunities.

Environmental responsibility is another priority at the 10th of Ramadan plant. The site uses green energy solutions to reduce carbon emissions and is developing a wastewater treatment facility. Advanced waste management systems are already in place and the share of recyclable packaging has increased in line with Bel Group’s sustainability goals.

Speaking during the visit, Hany Arram, Regional Director for Bel Egypt and Northeast Africa, said: “Our performance is the result of a long-term vision built on quality, innovation, and trust. Supported by a strong public-private ecosystem, Bel Egypt has consolidated its position as a regional export hub, with 80% of our production reaching international markets, generating €1.4 billion in exports over the past 15 years. Local sourcing is also a key lever of our impact, with 90% of our packaging materials procured from Egyptian suppliers.”

Charles Des Ormeaux, Marketing Director for Bel Group’s Northeast Africa and Middle East Cluster stated: “At Bel, we are always committed to delivering the highest standards of quality, taste, and nutritional value. We continuously innovate to meet the needs of Egyptian families and to bring a touch of everyday enjoyment to their lives. By consistently developing and enhancing our product portfolio, we aim to remain a trusted part of our consumers’ daily lives, offering products they can rely on and enjoy with complete confidence.”

Khaled Attia, Plant Director, emphasized the site’s strong environmental and social commitments: “Our industrial performance goes hand in hand with environmental responsibility. The plant relies on green energy solutions to reduce carbon emissions and we are currently developing a wastewater treatment facility. We have also implemented advanced waste management practices and significantly increased the share of recyclable packaging, in line with Bel Group’s sustainability roadmap.”

With continued investment, expanding exports and a clear focus on people and sustainability, Bel Egypt is set to remain a key driver of industrial growth and regional trade for years to come.

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