Egypt vs Portugal: made in the EU, or made closer to cost?
Portugal is one of Europe's largest textile and clothing industries, known for quality, customisation and short lead times, and it sells into the EU with no customs duty at all. Egypt costs less, grows its own cotton, enters the EU at 0% with a EUR.1, and adds duty-free US entry from QIZ factories. For US-bound cotton basics, Egypt usually lands cheaper.
| Egypt | Portugal | |
|---|---|---|
| Duty into the EU | 0% with EUR.1, if origin rules are met | None — inside the EU single market |
| Duty into the US | 0% from QIZ-registered factories | No US preference: normal duty applies |
| Labour cost | Typically lower | Typically higher |
| Known for | Denim, jersey, fleece and cotton basics | Quality, customisation and short lead times |
| Origin label | Made in Egypt | Made in Portugal, inside the EU |
| Best suited for | US-bound or price-sensitive cotton ranges | EU brands that sell 'made in Europe' and restock fast |
| Watch out for | Sea freight to Europe, and EUR.1 paperwork to get right | Higher unit cost; no duty advantage into the US |
Choose Portugal if
You sell in Europe, 'made in the EU' is part of your brand, and you need fast replenishment. There are no customs formalities into other EU countries, and the industry is concentrated in northern Portugal, around Porto and Braga.
Choose Egypt if
You sell in the US, or the unit price matters. Clothing from QIZ-registered factories enters the US duty-free, and the same run enters the EU at 0% with a EUR.1 when the fabric is made in Egypt. With us, orders start at 50 pieces per style, per colour.
Many brands use both
A common split is Portugal for EU-sold premium lines and fast restocks, and Egypt for cotton basics that sell in the US or carry a tighter margin.
Questions
Is Egypt cheaper than Portugal?
Usually, on labour and FOB price. Into the EU both can be duty-free, so the difference is mostly the garment price and transit.
Does Portugal have duty-free access to the US?
No. Portuguese clothing pays normal US duty. Egyptian clothing from QIZ-registered factories enters duty-free.
Which is faster to Europe?
Portugal, by road inside the EU. Egypt is a short sea crossing to southern Europe.
Products in this guide
