While manufacturers are wondering if this is just another quick oscillation, analysts told Sourcing Journal that this is no momentary blip, but rather evidence that many global brands are seeing the country as a long-term regional supplier and export hub.

The numbers appear to back this up: while overall exports from Egypt grew 21.7 percent in 2025, apparel exports increased by 20 percent during the same year, up from $2.85 billion in 2024 to $3.39 billion. In 2026, this momentum continued with 15 percent growth over the first seven months, reaching $2.13 billion. June alone recorded a 47 percent increase, reaching $355 million.

“In the next 10 years, it will shift to a completely new level,” said Yasmine Helal, national project coordinator for the GTex Menatex Programme of the International Trade Centre (ITC) in Egypt—a joint agency of the World Trade Organization and the United Nations that helps small businesses in developing economies transition to global markets.

The GTex Menatex program specifically drives textile and clothing export competitiveness across North Africa and the Middle East. “I look at it as a very good opportunity for Egypt—not only to increase the level of investment in the industry, but also to drive growth in the sector and the productivity and skills of workers.”

A new labor law introduced in September 2025, which regulates compliance with international standards and relations between employees and employers, has also helped.

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