Air Liquide announces new investment reinforcing its position in Egypt

Air Liquide and EZZ Steel, one of the leading steel producers in the Middle East and Africa, have signed a new long term agreement for the supply of industrial gases to EZZ’s new plant in Ain Sokhna, East of Cairo, Egypt. Air Liquide Egypt will invest around 80 million dollars in building an Air Separation Unit (ASU) to supply EZZ needs throughout the duration of the contract, as well as other customer needs in the basin.

With an oxygen production capacity of 770 tons per day, this ASU will notably allow Air Liquide to support the development of the Ain Sokhna area as one of the country’s major basins for heavy industries within the Suez Canal Economic Zone. Air Liquide will also expand its existing pipeline network in Ain Sokhna to connect the new plant with Air Liquide’s 4 other Air Separation Units already in operation, increasing the reliability of supply.

In line with Air Liquide’s Sustainability Objective of carbon neutrality by 2050, the project includes a CO2 emissions reduction roadmap based on renewable power sourcing.

Pascal Vinet, Senior Vice President and a member of the Air Liquide Group Executive Committee supervising Europe Industries activities and Africa Middle East India, said:

“Air Liquide is pleased to collaborate with EZZ Steel, accompanying the growth of the Egyptian steel industry through the establishment of one of the largest industrial basins in Egypt. The investment in this ASU and pipeline infrastructure will further enhance Air Liquide’s network capabilities, allowing us to meet the growing industrial gas demands of our customers.”