DUOL, a Slovenian company that specialises in the produces innovative storage and industrial buildings, based on air supported and tent structures, has recently expressed interest in developing cooperation with the port of Damietta.
In an interview with Daily News Egypt on the occasion of the Port of Koper day in Cairo, held on 30 March by Luka Koper, DUOL General Manager Dušan Olaj spoke about the company’s activities in Egypt.
In what field does DUOL operate in Egypt?
We have been present in the Egyptian market for three years. We cover air supported structures. At the beginning of the year, we built an indoor swimming pool for the Modern English School in Cairo. We are interested in establishing industrial buildings, agricultural storage facilities and greenhouses.
What projects do you look forward to in Egypt?
We are looking for potential partners in the agricultural sector to build up the pilot project of greenhouses.
How does DUOL intend to boost its presence in the Egyptian market?
I believe we can be present in ports to provide different solutions. We have the ability to cover huge areas in a short period of time and to establish high-quality storage facilities in different ports, which is a real necessity in Egypt.
Today, I met with the head of Damietta’s management board, and we are very close to signing a cooperation agreement.
Does the company have any plans to participate in the Suez Canal Area Development Project?
Before any cooperation with the Suez Canal Authority, both parties should find a suitable model [for development].
Of course we have great interest. We also have great interest in participating in developing the facilities at the Damietta’s port, which is for us, a very important project. Our goal is to increase the potential of the agricultural storage facilities.
Do you have concerns regarding the instability in Egypt?
Absolutely not. Anything could happen anywhere, anytime. If I start to think in this way, the best place is to stay at home, which means no business will be done.
I am in Egypt now, trying to find partners for cooperation and protection. Egypt itself is a very big market. In addition, it could be a hub to enter and expand in the African market.
What about the Gulf market? Is it not more attractive as there is more capital there?
I am not investing just to obtain some money and go back to Slovenia. I chose Egypt for long-term cooperation.
I am also looking to benefit the Egyptian market. Our prices are may be not competitive in the agricultural sector, so we decided look for local suppliers to establish local production, which means offering job opportunities for Egyptians.
