Christian Dihlmann's visit to Egypt brings ISTMA World into direct dialogue with government and industry leaders, with discussions focusing on technology transfer, industrial expertise and the strengthening of the country's mould and die manufacturing capabilities.
ISTMA World President Christian Dihlmann has met with Egypt's Minister of Industry, Khaled Hashem, as part of a visit aimed at strengthening international connections and exploring new opportunities for cooperation in the global tooling industry.
The meeting brought together senior representatives from Egypt's industrial sector, including the Egyptian Federation of Industries, the Engineering Industries Chamber, the Mould and Die Division and the Production Competency and Vocational Training Authority, alongside representatives of industrial training organisations.
The discussions placed mould and die manufacturing firmly on the industrial agenda. Minister Khaled Hashem highlighted its strategic importance within Egypt's Industrial Strategy 2030, recognising tooling as an essential foundation for engineering and manufacturing industries. He stressed the need to strengthen domestic capabilities, reduce dependence on imported tooling, increase local added value and improve the competitiveness of Egyptian products in international markets.
The Minister also expressed the government's commitment to supporting cooperation with international partners, particularly in the transfer of technical knowledge and the strengthening of specialised industrial skills.
Sharing international experience and strengthening industry connections
Representing ISTMA World, Christian Dihlmann shared insights into the challenges and priorities facing the international tooling industry, drawing on ABINFER's experience and initiatives in technological advancement, operational efficiency, investment and workforce qualification.
A key topic was how international expertise and established industry practices could contribute to strengthening Egypt's tooling capabilities. Discussions included the possibility of establishing a specialised vocational school for mould and die manufacturing, in cooperation with the relevant industrial and training institutions.
The programme also included a visit to the Production Competency and Vocational Training Authority, where the delegation had the opportunity to assess its facilities and capabilities. Christian Dihlmann acknowledged the institution's potential to support the provision of specialised skills for the industry.
A new step towards ISTMA membership
The visit also represents an important opportunity to strengthen ISTMA World's presence and connections in the region. Following the contacts established with the Egyptian Mould and Die Division and other industry stakeholders, ISTMA World expects to welcome the Egyptian Association of Mould and Die Industry as a member in the near future. This would further broaden the organisation's international network and create new opportunities for knowledge exchange and cooperation.
For ISTMA World, this initiative reflects its role in connecting national tooling associations, facilitating dialogue between industry and institutions, and promoting international cooperation to address shared challenges and opportunities.
By expanding its network and strengthening relationships across different regions, ISTMA World continues to support a more connected global tooling community and the long-term competitiveness of the sector.
