Ningbo businesses are finding new opportunities in Egypt as lower trade barriers give fresh momentum to China-Egypt commerce.

Trade between Ningbo and Egypt reached 4.09 billion yuan ($608 million) in the first seven months of 2026, up 14.4 percent year-on-year, according to Ningbo Customs. Exports accounted for most of the trade, rising 15.4 percent to 3.71 billion yuan, while imports grew 5.9 percent to 380 million yuan.

China and Egypt are marking 70 years of diplomatic ties this year. Since May 1, China has removed tariffs on imports from African countries with which it has diplomatic relations, including Egypt.

The policy is already benefiting food importers. Ningbo Loyal Import and Export Co has been importing Egyptian citrus into China and processing it into juice and canned fruit for retailers and restaurants. Its fruit imports from Egypt were 2.2 times higher in the first seven months than the previous year.

For some Ningbo manufacturers, Egypt is more than an export market. Motorcycle producer Ningbo Longjia Power Technology Co has operated an assembly plant in Cairo since 2008. Its engineers have adapted motorcycles to local conditions, including high temperatures, dusty roads, and the common need to use three-wheelers for both passengers and cargo.

According to the company, Longjia intends to maintain its China-based R&D operations and Egypt-based assembly model.

The two-way trade highlights how tariff changes are creating opportunities both ways, with Egyptian agricultural products reaching Chinese consumers while Ningbo-made motorcycles find buyers in Egypt.