Egypt Opens Largest Automated Sorting Center in Middle East

Egypt is betting big on e-commerce, and the numbers show why it's working.

The country unveiled its largest automated sorting center on Wednesday, a $5 million facility that can handle 11,000 shipments per hour. That's up to 250,000 packages finding their way to doorsteps every single day.

The timing couldn't be better. Egypt's e-commerce market is exploding, with the new center expected to support 80 million shipments throughout 2026 alone. Minister of Planning Rania Al-Mashat says the country's large population and domestic market create the perfect foundation for continued growth.

What makes this project stand out is who built it. Egyptian startups collaborated on the facility, showing that the country's entrepreneurial ecosystem isn't just growing but working together. Al-Mashat describes this cooperation as a sign of increasing integration and competitiveness among local innovators.

The government is backing these entrepreneurs with real support. A Ministerial Group for Entrepreneurship is preparing new measures to help startups thrive, recognizing that young companies are becoming vital contributors to job creation and economic productivity.

Technology is at the heart of the strategy. Al-Mashat pointed to recent discussions at the World Economic Forum in Davos about artificial intelligence and modern technology adoption. She believes Egyptian startups embracing these tools will drive business expansion across sectors.

The Ripple Effect

This isn't just about faster package delivery. The automated sorting center represents a larger shift in how Egypt approaches economic development through 2030. By focusing on innovation and technology, the country is building infrastructure that creates jobs, supports small businesses, and makes life easier for millions of consumers.

The logistics upgrade also helps level the playing field for Egyptian entrepreneurs competing in global markets. Better shipping infrastructure means local startups can serve customers more efficiently, whether they're across Cairo or across continents.

As e-commerce continues reshaping how people shop worldwide, Egypt is positioning itself as a regional leader with the infrastructure to match its ambitions.