Exploring New Horizons in ICT
At Cairo ICT 2024, Egypt’s largest information and communications technology (ICT) exhibition, Chinese companies garnered significant attention as they showcased their cutting-edge technologies and explored opportunities to expand in the Middle East and Africa. The event, held from November 20-23, 2024, brought together over 400 international and local exhibitors under the theme “The Next Wave.”
A Strong Chinese Presence
A total of 46 Chinese companies participated in the four-day event, with many focusing on fiber communication, according to Chen Feng, project manager at Guangdong MAFA Exhibition Company, a co-organizer of the expo. This marks the fourth consecutive year of Chinese participation, underscoring the significance of the expo in promoting new products and solutions to the Egyptian telecom market.
Notable Exhibitors
Among the Chinese exhibitors was Hengtong Optic-Electric Egypt, whose CEO, Fang Shaolei, highlighted the company’s longstanding involvement in the expo. He emphasized the importance of the event as a platform for promoting their products and learning from the latest industry innovations. Hengtong’s factory in Egypt has become a key hub for the region’s markets.
First-Time Participation
Shanghai BAOSH Communications Equipment Co., Ltd, a newcomer to the event, specializes in optical communication equipment and fiber application technology. Liu Lei, the company’s general manager, expressed excitement about the positive reception from Egyptian clients and mentioned their plans to potentially open an office in Egypt to further engage in the country’s growth.
Growing Interest from Egyptian Clients
The Chinese participation in Cairo ICT 2024 was met with strong interest from Egyptian clients, who were impressed by the innovative technologies on display. Amr Mamdouh, the owner of an Egyptian company specializing in internet networks and website design, expressed interest in collaborating with Chinese exhibitors, particularly in the network and internet sectors. He noted that Chinese technology has rapidly developed and continues to lead the global information technology and internet network fields.
Egypt’s Digital Vision
In line with Egypt’s ICT 2030 strategy, the country aims to develop its ICT infrastructure, promote digital inclusion, and transition to a knowledge-based economy. This strategy aligns with Egypt Vision 2030, which focuses on enhancing the country’s position regionally and internationally by fostering innovation and building a digital Egypt.
