CAIRO, March 29 (Xinhua) -- China's rapid advancements in electric vehicles (EVs) are creating fresh opportunities for Egypt's automotive industry through deeper cooperation, Khaled Geyushi, vice chairman of Egypt's Geyushi Automotive Industry, said.

"China has become one of the world's most important manufacturers of engines, buses, and cars," Geyushi told Xinhua in a recent interview.

Recounting a recent visit to China, he described the breadth of its EV offerings as "remarkable." "The designs are outstanding, the features impressive, and everything operates automatically," he said.

Geyushi Automotive, one of Egypt's leading bus manufacturers, has partnered with Chinese firms since 2017. The company assembles bus bodies locally while sourcing powertrains from China's state-owned FAW, a collaboration that has enabled it to expand into Gulf markets.

"The partnership with Chinese manufacturers has given us access to key markets that were previously out of reach," Geyushi said. The company exported 80 percent of its production in 2024, with Saudi Arabia and Jordan among its top destinations, where demand for Chinese-made vehicles is rising.

He expects Chinese brands to expand their footprint in Egypt, increasing investment in marketing and consumer awareness while strengthening industry ties.

Joint ventures, he said, would be a natural step forward. "Manufacturing car components together in Egypt is an effective way to enhance cooperation," he noted.

Geyushi also stressed that exports would be crucial for Chinese firms operating in Egypt. "By setting up manufacturing plants here, Chinese companies can tap into Egypt's strategic location and free trade agreements, allowing them to export competitively priced, high-quality products," he said.

For Egypt, collaboration with China could help accelerate industrial development and boost local content requirements set by the Ministry of Trade and Industry.

"Egypt still imports key powertrain components, including engines, transmissions, and electrical systems. While we produce seats, glass, batteries, and tires locally, our domestic content rate stands at just 40 percent, which is not enough," he said.

"Partnering with China provides a valuable pathway for Egypt to expand its role in global car manufacturing," Geyushi added.