Egypt smartphone prices surge as local manufacturing costs rise

Prices for smartphones manufactured locally in Egypt have surged since the beginning of 2026, with increases reaching up to 78.1% for mid-range models and 63.6% for entry-level devices. According to price lists from manufacturers and distributors, Samsung recorded the most significant hikes, with some mid-range models increasing by over 78%.

Other major brands also implemented price rises. Xiaomi increased budget device prices by up to 30%, while Oppo raised entry-level prices by 28.5% and mid-range prices by up to 40%. Realme saw increases of approximately 23.7% in the budget segment and 38% in the mid-range segment.

Industry officials attribute these hikes to a rise in operating costs of more than 35% since the start of the year. Contributing factors include higher costs for components, shipping, and raw material imports, as well as the depreciation of the Egyptian pound and geopolitical tensions affecting maritime navigation. These price shifts occur despite an expansion in local production capacity, which currently involves 15 brands with a target to produce 15 million phones in 2026.