Egypt is exploring a major partnership with Alibaba Group to build a regional hub that will support digital trade and supply chain growth across Africa. The discussions aim to strengthen e-commerce, accelerate digital transformation and position Egypt as a key logistical gateway for the continent. This move could reshape how businesses in Africa connect with global markets.
A strategic partnership with Alibaba
The Egyptian Authority for Unified Procurement, known as UPA, held talks with Alibaba Group to explore new areas of cooperation. Hisham Stait, Vice Chairman of UPA, met with Alibaba representatives to discuss plans for a regional hub inside UPA’s warehouse network. The goal is to build a centre that serves the entire African market.
The discussions focus on areas such as:
- Digital transformation
- E commerce infrastructure
- Supply chain development
- Logistics and regional distribution
Both sides see value in creating a system that supports the Unified Procurement for Africa initiative. This system would boost integration across supply chains and help governments and businesses source products more efficiently.
Building a regional digital platform
Egypt and Alibaba also discussed the creation of a regional digital platform for users in Egypt and across Africa. This platform would strengthen trade flows and improve market access for African sellers.
The platform aims to:
- Connect African and Middle Eastern markets
- Increase intra African trade
- Expand access to global buyers
- Improve product visibility for exporters
If developed, it would give African businesses a direct path to Alibaba’s global marketplace. This would open opportunities for small and medium enterprises that want to reach new customers.
Supporting export growth and digital infrastructure
The talks included plans to strengthen export and import activities through Alibaba’s global network. Egypt wants African manufacturers and traders to access more international buyers. Alibaba can support this through logistics expertise, digital tools and worldwide reach.
Other areas of cooperation discussed include:
- Advanced data management solutions
- Digital infrastructure upgrades
- Research partnerships between Egypt, China and African institutions
- AI development projects
These efforts aim to boost digital transformation and help African economies adopt modern technology at a faster pace.
Expanding cooperation in healthcare and logistics
Alibaba and UPA also reviewed potential collaboration in the healthcare sector. This includes participation in the Africa Health ExCon 2025. The goal is to improve medical supply chains and support health sector development across Africa.
The proposed regional hub would help Egypt strengthen its role as a key logistics centre. It would also support long term development goals and enhance regional integration across African markets.
With these talks underway, Egypt has an opportunity to position itself at the centre of Africa’s digital trade future.