20 Mar Driving International Trade Conference 2025
The Egyptian-British Chamber of Commerce and the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce Build Global Trade at National Business Conference
The Egyptian-British Chamber of Commerce (EBCC) and the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce (SCOC) have taken a major step to boost international trade opportunities for Suffolk and Egyptian businesses by signing a new partnership agreement at the prestigious British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) Driving International Trade Conference in London.
The Chambers are deeply grateful for the unwavering support of the Egyptian Embassy and the Egyptian Commercial Office in London. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed in the presence of H.E. Sherif Kamel, Egyptian Ambassador to the UK, is a testament to the strong collaboration between our nations. Without the dedicated efforts of the Egyptian government, partnerships like this would not thrive, reinforcing the vital link between Egypt and the UK in fostering economic and educational cooperation.
The MoU was signed as the EBCC and SCOC joined more than 30 other UK and international chambers, and over 400 businesses, at this national event. The partnership will strengthen trade between Suffolk and Egypt, opening doors for Suffolk firms to connect with Egyptian exporters and explore new markets.
This MoU is part of a wider initiative under the Egypt-UK Trade Accelerator Program, which is designed to match verified Egyptian exporters with UK buyers, helping to fill supply chain gaps, boost trade flows, and create new business opportunities for members.
Chambers on the national stage
The announcement was made alongside a series of high-profile speeches, including BCC Director General Shevaun Haviland and Foreign Secretary David Lammy MP, both of whom emphasised the importance of fostering international trade partnerships amid changing global dynamics.
H.E. Sherif Kamel represented Egypt in the opening panel discussion at the Driving International Trade event, where senior diplomatic representatives from Egypt, Germany, India, Türkiye, and Australia took part in the panel discussion, Navigating Strategic Markets. They unveiled the unique advantages their markets offer UK businesses—from innovation to investment potential.
Suffolk Chamber’s International Trade Manager, Koyas Miah, and the General Manager from the EBCC, Mark Lawrence, represented the Chambers and their business communities at the conference and led the signing of the MoU.
Koyas Miah said, “This MoU is a step towards deepening our international connections. By working together, we unlock greater access to the Egyptian market, driving trade, investment, and strategic partnerships. This collaboration provides Suffolk and Egyptian businesses with the tools and connections needed to grow internationally, opening doors to new markets and enhancing their global competitiveness.”
Mark Lawrence echoed these sentiments: “The EBCC is proud to partner with the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, a collaboration that will set a benchmark within the British Chamber of Commerce network. By sharing opportunities across all sectors, hosting joint events, and facilitating trade missions in both directions, we are strengthening ties and creating new pathways for growth and success.”
Reflecting on the partnership’s potential, H.E. Sherif Kamel said, “I am delighted to support this important partnership between the chambers, which serves as a catalyst for strengthening economic ties between Egypt and the United Kingdom. Such collaboration is essential in driving trade, fostering investment, and unlocking new opportunities for businesses in both nations. I look forward to seeing this partnership thrive and contribute to our shared prosperity.”
Unlocking international opportunities for businesses
This partnership will offer Suffolk and Egyptian businesses access to practical export support, networking opportunities, and direct connections to Egyptian suppliers through structured matchmaking events and the Trade Accelerator platform. The Chambers will continue working closely with its partners and the wider BCC network to champion businesses on the national and international stage.
No Comments