Several auto distributors have slashed prices on select models by 5-15% in a bid to increase sales amid sluggish demand on cars in the country, industry sources told EnterpriseAM. The markdowns come as distributors look to clear out last year’s inventory ahead of new model launches expected in August.

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The price cuts come amid a mild recovery in auto sales, which took a 22% hit in January, before slightly recovering in February and March.

Sources told us that a number of distributors brought in large shipments late last year, misjudging demand. With the market still in a wait-and-see mode, many consumers are holding off on purchases, anticipating further interest rate cuts as the Central Bank of Egypt moves deeper into its monetary easing cycle.

Imports are back in full swing: A local agent told us that import activity has normalized, allowing for greater availability of models from Europe, Japan, and China. Sources told EnterpriseAM in December that car dealers will be looking to import some USD 1.8 bn worth of cars in 2025.

The localization drive shifts demand dynamics: Local carmakers have also pulled some buyers away from high-priced imports, head of the Association of Automobile Manufacturers Khaled Saad told EnterpriseAM. Locally assembled models like the Proton Saga, Chevrolet Optra, and Hyundai Accent are gaining popularity, pushing importers to slash prices to stay competitive.

But don’t overstate the impact of local production: Federation of Chambers of Commerce’s auto division member Montasser Zaytoon told EnterpriseAM that local manufacturing has had a limited effect on market dynamics, due to the small production volumes and inability to meet demand in the mid-range segment.

No more markups: Prices have broadly corrected across the board, with overpricing — in which dealers tacked on premiums of EGP 100-200k on some models — becoming a thing of the past as supply outpaces demand.

Used car prices take a hit: Reduced pricing in the new car market has spilled over to used cars, with some losing 20-25% of their value compared to last year’s peaks, according to our sources. The secondhand market had stepped in to fill the supply gap when imports were constrained by FX shortages, but is now rebalancing itself with market dynamics.

More competition on the horizon: More locally assembled vehicles — including models from El Nasr Automotive and Kasrawy Group — are expected to hit the market starting July, according to our sources. The move is expected to increase competitive pricing as consumers will have more options.

Watch out for the exchange and interest rates: Exchange rate fluctuations and changes in interest rates will continue to play a key role in shaping auto pricing trends moving forward, one industry insider told us.

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