Britain’s Industrial Decline and the Suez Tension: What’s Behind the Criticism?

 

When Egypt celebrates the anniversary of regaining control over the Suez Canal, it’s not just a national moment — it subtly unsettles former colonial powers, especially the UK. Why?

Because Britain is facing an unprecedented industrial decline, while Egypt asserts economic sovereignty over a global maritime artery.

The Numbers Tell the Story:

Indicator Status

Industry's Share of GDP Dropped from 25% in the 1970s to around 9% in 2023

Decline in Heavy Manufacturing Energy-intensive sectors (steel, paper, chemicals) shrank between 30% and 46% from 2021 to 2024

Post-Brexit Export Slump UK goods exports to the EU fell by 18% compared to 2019

Why Does the Suez Canal Trigger Nervous Reactions?

1. A Reminder of a Lost Empire

The 1956 Suez Crisis ended British military dominance in the Middle East. The canal’s control by Egypt still symbolizes that shift.

2. Modern Egypt = Strategic Sovereignty

Through expansion, logistics zones, and national policy, the canal is no longer just a passage — it's an economic asset under full Egyptian control.

3. Moral Posturing from an Industrially Weak UK

The UK’s recent tone on "maritime security" masks deeper economic insecurity. With rising energy costs and weak exports, even its global voice sounds hollow.

Final Thought:

> Those who no longer produce... often preach.

The Suez Canal isn’t just a waterway. It’s a symbol of economic independence — and that’s what really unsettles the West.

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Sources:

Reuters: High energy costs threaten UK manufacturing (2025)

https://www.reuters.com/sustainability/climate-energy/high-energy-costs-threaten-uk-manufacturings-future-industry-warns-2025-06-01

Financial Times: UK’s industrial core eroding post-Brexit

https://www.ft.com/content/a4301149-af90-4dc8-a4dc-250a98da509d

UK Parliament Brief: The impact of Brexit on UK trade

https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/research-briefings/cbp-7851

Communist.red: The 1956 Suez Crisis and Britain’s imperial collapse

https://communist.red/1956-suez-crisis-the-death-of-an-empire-2