In a strategic move aimed at enhancing sustainable mobility and industrial collaboration, Volvo Buses has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with GB Auto, a leading automotive player in the Middle East and Africa. The agreement is set to significantly strengthen the export of Volvo buses and coaches from Egypt to key regional markets including Jordan, Oman, Iraq, Cameroon, and Senegal.
The MoU was formalized at a high-profile signing ceremony attended by Benjamin Dousa, Sweden’s Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade, and Kamel al-Wazir, Egypt’s Minister of Transportation. Both governments emphasized the importance of deepening bilateral trade ties and enhancing Egypt’s position as a strategic export hub.
A Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation
As part of the agreement, GB Auto will invest in upgrading its state-of-the-art bus manufacturing facility in Ain Sokhna, Egypt. The focus will be on expanding production capacity, adopting cutting-edge industrial technology, and creating new employment opportunities.
Volvo Buses will contribute its global technical expertise, corporate know-how, and continuous process optimization guidance, ensuring the facility aligns with international standards for quality, safety, and environmental responsibility.
This partnership is about expanding our reach and doing so responsibly,” said Dan Pettersson, Senior Vice President, Business Unit Chassis, Volvo Buses. “It reflects our long-term strategy to integrate sustainability across the value chain and offer flexible, market-adapted solutions.
Driving Regional Growth Through Strategic Alliances
Since the beginning of their collaboration in 1998, GB Auto has served as Volvo Buses’ regional export base. The renewed partnership now focuses on the joint development of premium commercial passenger transport vehicles, built on Volvo chassis and tailored for both local and international markets.
We are proud to strengthen our collaboration with Volvo Buses,” said Karim Gaddas, COO of GB Auto. “Our 2024 investment plan focuses on advanced technologies that enhance product performance while minimizing environmental impact. This MoU reaffirms our commitment to excellence and sustainability.
Egypt’s Role as a Regional Export Powerhouse
The new partnership underscores Egypt’s strategic role as a regional manufacturing and export center. The Ain Sokhna facility will serve as a cornerstone for Volvo’s expansion into the Middle East and Africa, offering vehicles that meet global performance and design standards.
By combining Volvo’s global brand strength and engineering excellence with GB Auto’s regional manufacturing capabilities, the agreement paves the way for a new era in sustainable public transportation solutions across emerging markets.
