The Egyptian Cabinet’s Information and Decision Support Center (IDSC) has released a comprehensive report titled “Glass Industry: Trends and Sustainable Practices,” offering fresh insights into the global and domestic glass manufacturing landscape.
The report underscores the rising global significance of the glass industry, citing its vital applications in construction, energy, packaging, and technology.
Driven by rapid technological advancement, sustainability demands, and environmental awareness, the sector is poised for significant expansion.
According to Presidence Research and Consulting, the global glass market is projected to grow from $200.15 billion in 2024 to $351.74 billion by 2034, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.8%.
Asia-Pacific leads the global market with a 40% share, estimated at $80.06 billion in 2024, projected to reach $140.70 billion by 2034.
The container glass segment, influenced by global efforts to replace plastics, has emerged as the dominant force, accounting for 50% of the market share by 2024.
On the environmental front, the glass industry emits around 95 million metric tons of carbon dioxide annually. However, recycling efforts have proven effective. “Every ton of recycled glass conserves more than a ton of natural resources,” the report notes.
Additionally, each 10% increase in recycled glass reduces furnace energy use by 2-3%, while every six tons of recycled glass cuts CO₂ emissions by one ton.
The recycled glass market alone is expected to grow to $6.33 billion by 2033.
Egypt’s own glass industry, deeply rooted in history, has witnessed notable growth.
With the largest stock of white silica sand—1.54 million tons—Egypt has a critical advantage.
The sector has expanded from 23 firms in 2020 to 85 in 2023, primarily located in Qalyubia, Sharqia, and Giza.
Investment in the industry stands at EGP 27.5 billion.
Exports reached $643.6 million in 2024, with Turkey, the US, Brazil, and Morocco among top importers. Job creation has surged as well, with workforce numbers growing by 421.9% since 2020, reaching 9,500 employees in 2023.
In terms of sustainability, Egypt has launched initiatives such as a global tender for glass sand exploration, a $700 million solar panel glass project with China’s Singin New Keeping Technology, and support for the Suez Canal Economic Zone to house glass factories.
The country’s packaging sector is also pivoting toward glass, supported by the Ministry of Environment’s “Reducing Plastic Bags” initiative, in partnership with UNEP and CEDARE.
The IDSC concludes that the Egyptian glass industry is well-positioned for accelerated growth, driven by government support, strategic partnerships, and expanding global demand.
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