French Air Liquide plans to expand investments in Egypt’s industrial gases and clean energy

French industrial gases group Air Liquide (EPA:AI) is planning to increase its investments in Egypt in the coming period, according to a statement from the Ministry of Industry on April 29, cited by Al Mal. The move comes as Egypt positions itself as a regional hub for advanced manufacturing and clean energy.

Nicolas Poirot, the company’s CEO for Africa, the Middle East, India and Kazakhstan, said Egypt represents one of the most promising markets in the region. He noted the country’s strong pool of skilled professionals, particularly in engineering and industrial technologies, as a key factor supporting the firm’s regional expansion strategy.

The remarks came during a meeting between Egypt’s ministers of industry and investment and a delegation from the French company to discuss opportunities to expand operations and deepen cooperation in industrial gases and clean energy.

Air Liquide has been active in Egypt since 2002 and currently operates around 15 production sites, serving more than 800 clients across various industrial sectors. The company has invested over €100mn in the country in recent years. The group is now looking to expand pipeline networks and develop infrastructure to support industrial growth in several regions. 

Brian Shetty, the company’s general manager, said the firm is also interested in hydrogen and energy projects. Investment Minister Mohamed Farid said Egypt is prioritising foreign direct investment in high-value-added industrial sectors. Industry Minister Khaled Hashem added that the government is keen to localise industrial gas technologies and invited the company to explore manufacturing gas-cooling units domestically, particularly for natural gas extraction.