Suez Canal Authority Signs Historic Deal with Italy’s NERI Group for Tugboat Exports
In a strategic move to strengthen Egypt’s position as a regional hub for shipbuilding, the Suez Canal Authority (SCA) announced a historic export deal with Italy’s NERI Group for two high-powered tugboats, each with a bollard pull of 90 tonnes a first for Egypt in maritime exports.
The agreement was signed at the SCA headquarters in Ismailia, in the presence of SCA Chairman Osama Rabie, Mostafa El-Degishi, CEO of Suez Canal Modern Boats Company, and Hassan Kamal, Board Member of the company. This landmark contract marks Egypt’s first step toward entering international markets with locally manufactured tugboats.
The tugboats, of the Rastar 3200-W class, are designed for high performance in ports and waterways, featuring superior towing capacity and operational stability. Delivery to the NERI Group is expected in the first quarter of next year.
Significance for the Egyptian Maritime Industry
This contract represents a milestone for the Egyptian shipbuilding sector, showcasing the SCA’s successful strategy to localize maritime manufacturing and enhance Egypt’s industrial capabilities.
Chairman Osama Rabie described the deal as a vote of confidence in Egyptian engineering, reflecting the success of national efforts to revive the shipyard industry. “This step opens new horizons for Egyptian-made vessels to compete globally,” he said.
Beyond the exported tugboats, Suez Canal Modern Boats is continuing the development of Azm-class tugboats for the Egyptian fleet and 12 deep-sea fishing vessels equipped with modern fishing and freezing technologies, highlighting Egypt’s commitment to a fully integrated maritime industry.
International Collaboration and Future Outlook
The contract was signed by Mostafa El-Degishi and Piero Neri, Chairman of NERI Group, who emphasized that this agreement is the beginning of long-term industrial collaboration between Egypt and Italy, opening opportunities for future joint projects.
This collaboration is a strategic turning point, enabling Egypt to expand industrial partnerships with the international private sector and strengthen its role in the global maritime supply chain, in line with national efforts to grow industrial exports and enhance the country’s maritime competitiveness.
About Manta Shipping
Manta Shipping is a leading provider of comprehensive maritime services in Egypt. The company offers integrated solutions, including technical supplies, food provisions, spare parts, chemicals, logistics services, and crew change support.
Operating across all Egyptian ports and the Suez Canal region, Manta Shipping is committed to high standards of safety, reliability, and environmental efficiency, helping clients navigate complex maritime operations with confidence and efficiency.
