PRESIDENT SISI UNVEILS STRATEGIC LNG BOOST TO FUEL EGYPT’S ENERGY HUB AMBITIONS

New regasification boost strengthens Egypt’s role in reshaping global energy flows.

Egypt Liquefied natural gas Africa Regasification capacity Renewable energy Economy transformation.
President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi
President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi



Egypt is accelerating its push to become a central energy gateway between Africa, Europe, and the Middle East by doubling its liquefied natural gas (LNG) regasification capacity to 2.25 billion cubic feet per day. This strategic leap, supported by the deployment of advanced floating regasification units, positions the country as a vital player in the evolving global energy landscape.

Announced Tuesday in Cairo by President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi following high-level talks with Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly and Oil Minister Karim Badawi, the expansion reflects Egypt’s determination to secure both domestic energy needs and international relevance amid ongoing geopolitical shifts.

The upgraded infrastructure will enable Egypt to process larger volumes of both imported and domestic LNG, supporting internal consumption and strengthening its role as a key re-export hub, particularly to energy-hungry European markets seeking alternatives to Russian gas.

President Al-Sisi emphasized the importance of collaboration with energy giants like TotalEnergies, Eni, and QatarEnergy to expand offshore exploration and logistics capabilities.

The move also reflects broader energy diversification goals, which include upgrading the national electricity grid, expanding renewable energy, and reducing subsidies. But the journey is not without hurdles. In 2023, a surge in domestic demand forced Cairo to reduce LNG exports, exposing the delicate balance between export ambitions and local needs.

Civil society organizations have also flagged environmental concerns over the new floating regasification terminals and questioned the tangible benefits for local communities.

Still, the government remains focused on the long-term payoff. With its strategic location, deepened infrastructure, and growing international partnerships, Egypt is betting big on energy to anchor its economic transformation and geopolitical leverage.

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