Egyptian ceramic industry faces continued uncertainty after Libya postpones decision on import restrictions

The Egyptian ceramic industry is facing continued uncertainty after the Libyan Cabinet postponed implementing its decision to ban ceramics imports via land crossings until the end of the year, the local press reported. Companies would need to find alternative ways of exporting their products if the government follows through on the restrictions. Shipping via sea would raise costs by 10-20% for exporters, which could force them to pass on the costs to Libyan customers, said Emad Afifi, director of export at Ceramica Granito. Libya is the largest importer of Egyptian ceramics, accounting for around 30% of the industry’s total exports.