CAIRO: The Egyptian-assembled Proton Saga has been launched in the Arab nation in partnership with local distributor Ezz Elarab Group.
Proton's international sales division said the model is assembled at the Ezz Elarab Elsewedy Automotive Factories (ESAF)'s new state-of-the-art CKD plant here which was inaugurated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in November last year.
The ESAF facility, which entailed an investment of US$50mil (RM223mil), has annual production capacity of 40,000 vehicles and signifies Egypt’s commitment to industrial development.
The facility uses locally sourced components and is geared for future expansion, including EV production to align with Egypt’s Vision 2030 development target.
Egyptian-assembled Saga CKD.
Proton CEO Dr Li Chunrong said Egypt's strategic positioning bridging the Middle East and Africa and coupled with its vast population and promising market recovery, presented an exceptional opportunity for Proton's growth.
He said Proton's main focus for the Egyptian market is the Saga although other models such as sports utility vehicles and new energy vehicles are being explored.
"Last year, Proton’s export volume grew by an impressive 31.1%, and Egypt played a crucial role in this growth.
"This success reinforces our commitment to making exports a key pillar of our future strategy. We are excited for the next phase and look forward to achieving even greater success with our partners in Egypt," he said.
Ezz Elarab Elsewedy Investment CEO Amr Abou Elseoud said the Saga CKD was launched with a well-defined strategy and supported by strong partnerships.
"With the start of mass production in Q1 2025, this marks the beginning of a new era in local manufacturing," he said.
Tarid (left) and Dr Li in the backseat of the Saga CKD.
Proton Egypt general manager Bassem Ashmawy said the partnership between Proton and Ezz Elarab Automotive had successfully introduced over 18,000 vehicles to the Egyptian market in the last 20 years.
"Many of these models have proven their efficiency and reliability, making them a preferred choice for customers.
"We remain committed to delivering the highest levels of safety, comfort, and modern technology in our vehicles, and we look forward to seeing the new Proton Saga on Egyptian roads as it continues Proton’s legacy of success in the country," he said.
Also present at the event were Egyptian ambassador to Malaysia Datuk Tarid Sufian, ESAF chairman Hisham Ezz Elarab, ESAF board member Ahmed Elsewedy, Proton chief purchasing officer Wang Huaibing and Proton director of international sales Edmund Lim Meng Thong.
