Cairo - A big blaze broke out Thursday in a garment factory owned by the Indian-based Embee International in the Egyptian city of Ismailiya, inflicting damage estimated at about 20 million dollars, security officials said.

Firefighters from Ismailiya on the Suez Canal, 120 kilometres north-east of Cairo, helped by Egyptian army helicopters, were battling to get the fire under control.

At least 15 workers have suffered after inhaling smoke.

The cause of the fire, which broke out early Thursday, is still unknown.

Indian firms have large investments in Egypt estimated at about 750 million dollars, including textile projects. (dpa)