Egypt, JICA launch second phase of SME industrial support project

Egypt’s Medium, Small, and Micro Enterprise Development Agency (MSMEDA) has launched on Sunday the second phase of a joint programme with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to support 20 small-scale industrial projects in Minya and Alexandria.

The initiative, part of the Improving Project Competitiveness through Business Development Services (BDS) Programme, targets food production businesses in Minya and plastic manufacturing enterprises in Alexandria’s Al-Merghem industrial zone.

MSMEDA CEO Basil Rahmy said the project reflects continued international confidence in Egypt’s economic outlook and aims to enhance the global competitiveness of local manufacturers. “Ongoing cooperation with JICA will provide targeted technical assistance to help small factories improve productivity, scale up operations, and explore export opportunities,” Rahmy said.

Japanese technical experts have already begun field visits to assess factory needs and offer tailored consultancy, with further follow-up and support planned in the coming months.

The first phase of the programme provided business development services to 14 enterprises, with guidance from both Egyptian and Japanese consultants.

Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English

Subediting: Y.Yasser