The Committee for Justice (CFJ) documented that around 4,000 workers at Egyptalum (Misr for Aluminum) in Nagaa Hammadi, Qena, went on strike in protest against the reduction of their annual profit share.
According to CFJ, the workers began their strike following the company’s general assembly last Thursday evening, which was held to approve the results of the 2024–2025 fiscal year. The meeting announced the highest profit in the company’s history — 10.18 billion Egyptian pounds.
CFJ reports that the workers’ profit share was reduced to the equivalent of only 95 months per worker, in violation of the company’s bylaws, which stipulate that employees are entitled to 12% of net annual profits. This decision pushed the workers to begin their strike.
The workers also demand increases in meal allowances, additional incentives, and sector-based bonuses according to the nature of work, as well as hazard allowances ranging from 80% to 150% depending on workplace risks. They also call for an increase in current job-related allowances and payment of a cost-of-living bonus.
In October last year, Egyptalum workers also went on strike to protest cuts to their profit share but suspended it after a few days when they received promises from management and the Holding Company that their demands would be met.
CFJ affirms its full solidarity with Egyptalum workers, stresses the importance of addressing their demands and fulfilling their legitimate rights, and emphasizes the need to protect workers’ rights and safeguard their dignity.