China to Egypt ocean freight via Alexandria and Damietta. Suez Canal route, 2026 rates, Egyptian customs, and Middle East / North Africa distribution.
Egypt is the largest Arab economy and a key trade hub between Africa, Europe, and Asia. The Suez Canal handles 30% of global container traffic, and Egypt's two main ports - Alexandria and Damietta - serve the country's 100+ million population. From China, Egypt offers 22-30 day transit and gateway access to North Africa, Middle East, and Southern Europe.
China-Africa Shipping Routes & Transit Times
| China Origin | Destination | Transit Time | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shanghai (CNSHA) | Alexandria (EGALY) | 22-28 days | 2-3 weekly |
| Ningbo (CNNGB) | Alexandria (EGALY) | 22-28 days | 2-3 weekly |
| Yantian (CNYAN) | Alexandria (EGALY) | 25-30 days | 2-3 weekly |
| Shanghai (CNSHA) | Damietta (EGDAM) | 22-28 days | 1-2 weekly |
| Shanghai (CNSHA) | Port Said (EGPSD) | 22-28 days | 1-2 weekly |
Major Carriers on China-Africa Trade
Major carriers on China-Egypt:
- MSC (Indep.) - 2-3 weekly (largest in Mediterranean)
- Maersk (Gemini) - 2-3 weekly
- CMA CGM (Indep.) - 2-3 weekly
- COSCO (OA) - 1-2 weekly
- Hapag-Lloyd (Gemini) - 1-2 weekly
- ONE (Premier) - 1-2 weekly
- Evergreen (OA) - 1-2 weekly
2026 Rate Ranges
Indicative FCL rates China-Egypt (2026):
- 20'GP: $1,500 - $2,200
- 40'GP: $2,200 - $3,200
- 40'HC: $2,400 - $3,400
LCL rate: $80 - $130 per CBM
Customs Clearance in Africa
Egyptian customs (Nafeza / ACID):
- ACID (Advanced Cargo Information Declaration) - MUST be filed before shipment arrives in Egypt
- Nafeza single window for all import declarations
- HS code + commercial invoice + packing list + B/L + Certificate of Conformity
- Import duty: typically 5-30% (some categories 0-60%)
- VAT 14% (rising to 15% in 2026) on CIF + duty
- GOEIC (General Organization for Export and Import Control) registration required
- Egyptian embassy attestation may be required for some documents
Key Takeaways
- Best ports: Discussed above with detailed comparison
- 2026 FCL range: See rate section above
- Transit time: Typically 7-30 days depending on destination
- Customs: Most destinations require ISF/CIF/ACID filings
- Best for: FCL for full containers, LCL for small shipments
Pro Tips for Shipping from China to Africa
Pro tips for China-Egypt shipping:
- File ACID BEFORE shipment - without it, cargo will be held at port
- Alexandria is the largest port; Damietta is alternative
- Cairo is the main market - trucking from Alexandria: 2-3 hours
- Avoid summer heat (Jul-Aug) for non-DG cargo, but AC units are in high demand
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ACID in Egypt?
ACID (Advanced Cargo Information Declaration) is mandatory for all imports. Must be filed with Nafeza before shipment arrives. Without ACID, cargo is held.
How long does shipping from China to Egypt take?
Ocean transit: 22-30 days. ACID processing: 3-5 days. Customs: 2-3 days. Door-to-door Cairo: 30-40 days.
What is the import duty in Egypt?
Most consumer goods 5-30% import duty. VAT 14% (going to 15% in 2026). Some categories 0% (raw materials), some up to 60% (luxury goods).
Alexandria vs Damietta port?
Alexandria is the largest (handles 60% of Egypt's container traffic). Damietta is newer, faster turnaround, less congestion.